Listening to the Stories That Shape Our City

What is our story? Near the heart of IU Indianapolis stands Talking Wall, a 2015 sculpture by artist Bernard Williams that invites us to consider that question. The patterns on the Wall draw on traditional African carving and textiles, as well as African American quilt-making, connecting those traditions to the city they helped shape. Within its design are tributes to Madam C.J. Walker, Marshall W. (Major) Taylor, and John Leslie (Wes) Montgomery, as well as educators, artists, athletes, military leaders, and civic figures whose work transformed Indianapolis.

The site carries history. The sculpture stands on the former location of IPS School 4, one of the city’s original neighborhood public schools. Until 1922, the school welcomed Black and white students. Later, it was designated for African American children only. Knowing this, the artwork becomes more than a monument. It serves as a reminder that education and community are intertwined in the story of our neighborhoods.

As we observe Black History Month, Talking Wall reminds us that at IU Indianapolis, our responsibility extends beyond the boundaries of campus. It shows up in how we educate students, how we partner with our community, and how we prepare graduates to lead the city they call home.

Art stirs something inside us, and public art stirs a collective memory that takes us into people and places from the past. Talking Wall invites us to listen to the histories that shaped Indianapolis; Talking Wall reminds us that progress is slow, but it is around us; Talking Wall reminds us that we must continue building institutions that develop leaders who serve the community and expand opportunity.

I encourage you to visit the sculpture, reflect on its symbols, and consider how each of us contributes to the ongoing story of our city.

Go Jags!

Latha Ramchand
Chancellor