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African American Museum architect David Adjaye to speak at D.C.’s first South by South Lawn event

The famous architect will speak on the challenges and rewards of creating the National Museum of African American History & Culture

For the first time, the White House will host its own version of Austin’s South by Southwest event, titled, "South by South Lawn" (SXSL). The event will kick off on October 3 with interactive exhibits, screenings, and events that will feature Leonardo DiCaprio, cast members of the Netflix series Stranger Things, and most importantly David Adjaye.

Regardless of whether or not you’re familiar with the name, David Adjaye, there’s no way you can go through life without discovering at least one of his works. Most recently, one of his largest commissions to date, the National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC), opened to much fanfare and celebration. Other notable works include the Rivington Place in London and the Nobel Peace Center in Norway.

At a SXSL panel, roughly a week after the grand opening of the much-anticipated Smithsonian museum, Adjaye will speak alongside artist James Turrel on what kinds of challenges he has experienced during his career. Los Angeles County Museum of Art Director Michael Govan will moderate the panel at the Newseum from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m.

If unable to attend the event, those interested can still see the festival in action through streaming on WhiteHouse.gov, Facebook.com/WhiteHouse, and sxsw.com/live. The event is hosted by Events DC, the official convention and sports authority of Washington, D.C.