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A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects
Ten beautifully illustrated essays tell the stories of handcrafted objects and their makers, providing inspiration and insight into Black history and craftsmanship.
Black artisans have long been central to American art and design, creating innovative and highly desired work against immense odds. Atlanta-based chairmaker and scholar Robell Awake explores the stories behind ten cornerstones of Black craft, celebrated wooden chairs of Richard Poynor, an enslaved craftsman who began a dynasty of Tennessee chairmakers.The elegant wrought-iron gates of Philip Simmons, seen to this day throughout Charleston, South Carolina, whose work features motifs from the Low Country.The inventive assemblage art and yard shows of Joe Minter, James Hampton, Bessie Harvey, and others, who draw on African spiritual traditions to create large-scale improvisational art installations.
From the enslaved potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina, to Ann Lowe, the couture dressmaker who made Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress, to Gullah Geechee sweetgrass basket makers, to the celebrated quilters of Gee's Bend, A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects illuminates the work of generations of Black craftspeople, foregrounding their enduring contributions to American craft.
BLACK CRAFT AND Delving into the history of Black skilled artisans, estimated to have outnumbered white artisans five to one in the southern United States in the late 1800s, this unique art history book celebrates handcrafted objects that reflect the dynamic nature of Black culture.
DYNAMIC ILLUSTRATED Luminous color illustrations by artist Johnalynn Holland highlight beloved craft objects and their makers, creating a fascinating volume to study and treasure.
ART HISTORY Author Robell Awake is a notable furniture maker, artisan, and educator whose work has been featured in the New York Times and in group shows at Verso Gallery in New York City and the Center for Craft in Asheville, NC. Dr. Tiffany Momon, who contributes an afterword, is the founder and co-director of the Black Craftspeople Digital Archive and a leading scholar of Black history and African American placemaking throughout the southeast.
BEAUTIFUL GIFT The gorgeous design is ideal for art collectors and craft enthusiasts, as a keepsake reminder of Black heritage, for Black History Month and beyond.
Perfect interested in the intersection of Black art, craft, and historyDesigners and craftspeopleEducators and studentsCollectors and museum curatorsLovers of fine and artisanal design objects
Black artisans have long been central to American art and design, creating innovative and highly desired work against immense odds. Atlanta-based chairmaker and scholar Robell Awake explores the stories behind ten cornerstones of Black craft, celebrated wooden chairs of Richard Poynor, an enslaved craftsman who began a dynasty of Tennessee chairmakers.The elegant wrought-iron gates of Philip Simmons, seen to this day throughout Charleston, South Carolina, whose work features motifs from the Low Country.The inventive assemblage art and yard shows of Joe Minter, James Hampton, Bessie Harvey, and others, who draw on African spiritual traditions to create large-scale improvisational art installations.
From the enslaved potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina, to Ann Lowe, the couture dressmaker who made Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress, to Gullah Geechee sweetgrass basket makers, to the celebrated quilters of Gee's Bend, A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects illuminates the work of generations of Black craftspeople, foregrounding their enduring contributions to American craft.
BLACK CRAFT AND Delving into the history of Black skilled artisans, estimated to have outnumbered white artisans five to one in the southern United States in the late 1800s, this unique art history book celebrates handcrafted objects that reflect the dynamic nature of Black culture.
DYNAMIC ILLUSTRATED Luminous color illustrations by artist Johnalynn Holland highlight beloved craft objects and their makers, creating a fascinating volume to study and treasure.
ART HISTORY Author Robell Awake is a notable furniture maker, artisan, and educator whose work has been featured in the New York Times and in group shows at Verso Gallery in New York City and the Center for Craft in Asheville, NC. Dr. Tiffany Momon, who contributes an afterword, is the founder and co-director of the Black Craftspeople Digital Archive and a leading scholar of Black history and African American placemaking throughout the southeast.
BEAUTIFUL GIFT The gorgeous design is ideal for art collectors and craft enthusiasts, as a keepsake reminder of Black heritage, for Black History Month and beyond.
Perfect interested in the intersection of Black art, craft, and historyDesigners and craftspeopleEducators and studentsCollectors and museum curatorsLovers of fine and artisanal design objects
119 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 4, 2025
13 people are currently reading
241 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 9, 2025
This book introduced me to a variety of artisans who I had previously not heard of, and in that regard it is a great starting point for someone looking to learn more. However, each chapter is so surface level that you're left feeling like you need to go do some research online to fill in the gaps. I also really wish there had been pictures of the crafts. Awake has made illustrations and portraits for each chapter and I appreciated the artistic interpretations as an homage to the crafters. Photographs of the objects are also needed; I kept searching for them just so I could get a better idea of what they looked like. Overally, a nice short introduction to black craft but this will really only serve as a starting point.
April 12, 2025
What a fascinating book. It’s so sad to know that so many talented black craftspeople have gone and will continue to be uncredited for their fine work. The beautiful works of so many black craftspeople (especially the works of slaves) have been erased or white washed from history. I’m glad this author is working to tell these stories and give these artisans their due credit. I also found it very thought provoking to consider all of the arts and crafts that were produced by slaves under such horrific conditions. Even though they endured horrible things in their lives, their creative spirits endured and they still felt compelled to create. It goes to show just how important creative expression is. I only wish that this book included photographs of some of the works instead of illustrations of them
March 30, 2025
Really enjoyed this slim if essential volume on African American art and craft throughout history. Interested to find it featured a chapter highlighting Jacksonville's Kingsley Plantation, noted for African architecture.
September 24, 2024
This is an enlightening little book that punches above its weight. Robell Awake, a wood crafter himself, has chosen ten artifacts, some more familiar like the Gee's Bend quilt, and some less so, to bring forward the names of the artisans who crafted those items.
He makes the interesting point that, at least with respect to furniture, it's possible that the shops of white makers hid the work of the black artisans who worked there. When an antique dresser from a known shop was being disassembled in order to make repairs, the penciled signature of the black maker was found on the underside of the top where no one would ever see it.
I never knew the story of Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress, that a plumbing problem in the maker's shop meant that it had to be made twice, or that the maker arrived at Jackie's stepfather's home to deliver the wedding party's dresses only to be told she had to use the back service entrance; she said that unless she was admitted through the front door she would take all those dresses back to the city with her. She was admitted.
I would love to see this book serve as the companion to an exhibition of the quilts, clothing, pottery, and furniture made by these craftspeople. Hats off to Awake for finding out who they were and linking their names to their work. I'd love to see more pictures, maybe the printed version will have them.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read an advance copy of this book.
He makes the interesting point that, at least with respect to furniture, it's possible that the shops of white makers hid the work of the black artisans who worked there. When an antique dresser from a known shop was being disassembled in order to make repairs, the penciled signature of the black maker was found on the underside of the top where no one would ever see it.
I never knew the story of Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress, that a plumbing problem in the maker's shop meant that it had to be made twice, or that the maker arrived at Jackie's stepfather's home to deliver the wedding party's dresses only to be told she had to use the back service entrance; she said that unless she was admitted through the front door she would take all those dresses back to the city with her. She was admitted.
I would love to see this book serve as the companion to an exhibition of the quilts, clothing, pottery, and furniture made by these craftspeople. Hats off to Awake for finding out who they were and linking their names to their work. I'd love to see more pictures, maybe the printed version will have them.
Thanks to NetGalley for letting me read an advance copy of this book.
February 28, 2025
Real Rating: 4.5* of five
The Publisher Says: Ten beautifully illustrated essays tell the stories of handcrafted objects and their makers, providing inspiration and insight into Black history and craftsmanship.
Black artisans have long been central to American art and design, creating innovative and highly desired work against immense odds. Atlanta-based chairmaker and scholar Robell Awake explores the stories behind ten cornerstones of Black craft, including: The celebrated wooden chairs of Richard Poynor, an enslaved craftsman who began a dynasty of Tennessee chairmakers.
The elegant wrought-iron gates of Philip Simmons, seen to this day throughout Charleston, South Carolina, whose work features motifs from the Low Country.
The inventive assemblage art and yard shows of Joe Minter, James Hampton, Bessie Harvey, and others, who draw on African spiritual traditions to create large-scale improvisational art installations.
From the enslaved potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina, to Ann Lowe, the couture dressmaker who made Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress, to Gullah Geechee sweetgrass basket makers, to the celebrated quilters of Gee's Bend, A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects illuminates the work of generations of Black craftspeople, foregrounding their enduring contributions to American craft.
BLACK CRAFT AND AMERICANA: Delving into the history of Black skilled artisans, estimated to have outnumbered white artisans five to one in the southern United States in the late 1800s, this unique art history book celebrates handcrafted objects that reflect the dynamic nature of Black culture.
DYNAMIC ILLUSTRATED ESSAYS: Luminous color illustrations by artist Johnalynn Holland highlight beloved craft objects and their makers, creating a fascinating volume to study and treasure.
ART HISTORY EXPERTISE: Author Robell Awake is a notable furniture maker, artisan, and educator whose work has been featured in the New York Times and in group shows at Verso Gallery in New York City and the Center for Craft in Asheville, NC. Dr. Tiffany Momon, who contributes an afterword, is the founder and co-director of the Black Craftspeople Digital Archive and a leading scholar of Black history and African American placemaking throughout the southeast.
BEAUTIFUL GIFT BOOK: The gorgeous design is ideal for art collectors and craft enthusiasts, as a keepsake reminder of Black heritage, for Black History Month and beyond.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: There's a lot to love about Black History Month. One big thing is its use as a goad to look out for Black creators, and creativity centering Black life and experiences, in my otherwise very, very white life. I am an old white man and really appreciate the push to look out for ideas and art I don't see on the regular.
I think you're going to like it. Look:
Laying out the course we'll follow.
So beautiful, the evocation of the spirit of the quilt.
They're stunning as art; they're vital as cultural documents.
This kind of pottery makes my hairs stand up. Such a shot of Truth! It's a personality, it's a real Presence, an avatar of interiority.
Speaking real, home truth there, Dave.
It's a bureau that, as I look at it, is exactly like one Mama had; I wonder if that one was made by a Black craftsman, and I have no way to know....
A beautiful object about beautiful objects. An adornment for the coffee table. The essays aren't exactly stunning prose, or hugely academic; they're tonally appropriate enhancements of one's existing, or good seedstock for one's entirely absent, knowledge base of the long, long tradition of Black art in the craft sphere. Can't quite give it that full fifth star because it's doing its job but not stretching me as a reader; it will others, though.
The Publisher Says: Ten beautifully illustrated essays tell the stories of handcrafted objects and their makers, providing inspiration and insight into Black history and craftsmanship.
Black artisans have long been central to American art and design, creating innovative and highly desired work against immense odds. Atlanta-based chairmaker and scholar Robell Awake explores the stories behind ten cornerstones of Black craft, including: The celebrated wooden chairs of Richard Poynor, an enslaved craftsman who began a dynasty of Tennessee chairmakers.
The elegant wrought-iron gates of Philip Simmons, seen to this day throughout Charleston, South Carolina, whose work features motifs from the Low Country.
The inventive assemblage art and yard shows of Joe Minter, James Hampton, Bessie Harvey, and others, who draw on African spiritual traditions to create large-scale improvisational art installations.
From the enslaved potters of Old Edgefield, South Carolina, to Ann Lowe, the couture dressmaker who made Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress, to Gullah Geechee sweetgrass basket makers, to the celebrated quilters of Gee's Bend, A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects illuminates the work of generations of Black craftspeople, foregrounding their enduring contributions to American craft.
BLACK CRAFT AND AMERICANA: Delving into the history of Black skilled artisans, estimated to have outnumbered white artisans five to one in the southern United States in the late 1800s, this unique art history book celebrates handcrafted objects that reflect the dynamic nature of Black culture.
DYNAMIC ILLUSTRATED ESSAYS: Luminous color illustrations by artist Johnalynn Holland highlight beloved craft objects and their makers, creating a fascinating volume to study and treasure.
ART HISTORY EXPERTISE: Author Robell Awake is a notable furniture maker, artisan, and educator whose work has been featured in the New York Times and in group shows at Verso Gallery in New York City and the Center for Craft in Asheville, NC. Dr. Tiffany Momon, who contributes an afterword, is the founder and co-director of the Black Craftspeople Digital Archive and a leading scholar of Black history and African American placemaking throughout the southeast.
BEAUTIFUL GIFT BOOK: The gorgeous design is ideal for art collectors and craft enthusiasts, as a keepsake reminder of Black heritage, for Black History Month and beyond.
I RECEIVED A DRC FROM THE PUBLISHER VIA EDELWEISS+. THANK YOU.
My Review: There's a lot to love about Black History Month. One big thing is its use as a goad to look out for Black creators, and creativity centering Black life and experiences, in my otherwise very, very white life. I am an old white man and really appreciate the push to look out for ideas and art I don't see on the regular.
I think you're going to like it. Look:
Laying out the course we'll follow.
So beautiful, the evocation of the spirit of the quilt.
They're stunning as art; they're vital as cultural documents.
This kind of pottery makes my hairs stand up. Such a shot of Truth! It's a personality, it's a real Presence, an avatar of interiority.
Speaking real, home truth there, Dave.
It's a bureau that, as I look at it, is exactly like one Mama had; I wonder if that one was made by a Black craftsman, and I have no way to know....
A beautiful object about beautiful objects. An adornment for the coffee table. The essays aren't exactly stunning prose, or hugely academic; they're tonally appropriate enhancements of one's existing, or good seedstock for one's entirely absent, knowledge base of the long, long tradition of Black art in the craft sphere. Can't quite give it that full fifth star because it's doing its job but not stretching me as a reader; it will others, though.
February 26, 2025
2/25/2025 Astonishing, and very necessary. Full review tk at TheFrumiousConsortium.net.
2/26/2025 As Black History Month draws to a close, I decided to leapfrog past the other books in my schedule to make sure that I could provide coverage for this important title while the month is still ongoing. And this is a very important title, preserving and illuminating American history and the contributions of Black American artisans to the crafting traditions of this country, while presenting all its information in a highly accessible and engaging manner.
Robell Awake carefully chooses ten iconic items and succinctly discusses the artisans and traditions behind them. Whether discussing something as well-known and inarguably attributed to the Black community as the Gee's Bend Quilts, to the equally famous wedding dress of Jacqueline Kennedy and its less publicized couturier Anne Lowe, to the very design of American porches, Mr Awake goes over the myriad ways in which enslaved people and their descendants made an outsized impact on American craftsmanship. Lamentably, too many of these contributions were either minimized or whitewashed, with white slave owners often taking credit for the work of those they exploited, as in the case of the furniture-maker who went by the single name Boston. Both he and the ceramicist known as Dave the Potter risked harsh punishment for even signing their works, in a time when it was illegal for Black people to be literate. As Mr Awake describes the items and the circumstances under which they were produced, he also paints a vivid picture of what it was like to be Black in America, and how that legacy is felt in and continues to the present day.
Johnalynn Holland's art does a wonderful job of recreating many of the pieces described, as well as illustrating scenes of their crafting. I did bless the Internet for the ability to quickly search for photographs of the items that captured my interest, however. It's one thing to read about works like Harriet Powers' Bible Quilt or Philip Simmons' namesake gates. While Ms Holland depicts them ably, actually seeing them, even in photographs, is a breathtaking experience. I'm already mentally planning a trip to see as many of these as I can, likely starting with James Hampton's The Throne of the Third Heaven of the Nations’ Millennium General Assembly, the iconic work of yard show art currently on display at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
I don't usually talk about author's personal lives in my reviews, but I found it striking how Mr Awake discusses his own position as a artisan who never finished college in his introduction. Frankly, he's done an exemplary job with this book of essays, rivaling anything I've ever read by writers more firmly rooted in academia. Genuinely the only thing I thought was missing here was a deeper interrogation of how race is used to cover up the relentless class warfare waged by wealthy Americans against the poor. While he does touch on it briefly when discussing the exploitation of enslaved cabinetmakers by white shop owners who claimed the designs as their own, he doesn't point out the parallels with modern capitalism. Perhaps he doesn't need to. Regardless, I understand how the subject may be well outside of the scope and intent of this book.
That said, I did appreciate how he talked about his own background as the son of Ethopian immigrants. The current conversation on who counts as Black in America is a truly thorny one that I don't feel at all qualified to discuss, but I appreciate how he lays out his own origins so that others can make their own judgments on how to approach his work. This kind of transparency is refreshing, and a subtle rebuke to authors who try to obscure their own backgrounds in order to grant themselves greater authority on the subjects they're discussing.
A Short History Of Black Craft In Ten Objects by Robell Awake was published February 4 2025 by Princeton Architectural Press and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
2/26/2025 As Black History Month draws to a close, I decided to leapfrog past the other books in my schedule to make sure that I could provide coverage for this important title while the month is still ongoing. And this is a very important title, preserving and illuminating American history and the contributions of Black American artisans to the crafting traditions of this country, while presenting all its information in a highly accessible and engaging manner.
Robell Awake carefully chooses ten iconic items and succinctly discusses the artisans and traditions behind them. Whether discussing something as well-known and inarguably attributed to the Black community as the Gee's Bend Quilts, to the equally famous wedding dress of Jacqueline Kennedy and its less publicized couturier Anne Lowe, to the very design of American porches, Mr Awake goes over the myriad ways in which enslaved people and their descendants made an outsized impact on American craftsmanship. Lamentably, too many of these contributions were either minimized or whitewashed, with white slave owners often taking credit for the work of those they exploited, as in the case of the furniture-maker who went by the single name Boston. Both he and the ceramicist known as Dave the Potter risked harsh punishment for even signing their works, in a time when it was illegal for Black people to be literate. As Mr Awake describes the items and the circumstances under which they were produced, he also paints a vivid picture of what it was like to be Black in America, and how that legacy is felt in and continues to the present day.
Johnalynn Holland's art does a wonderful job of recreating many of the pieces described, as well as illustrating scenes of their crafting. I did bless the Internet for the ability to quickly search for photographs of the items that captured my interest, however. It's one thing to read about works like Harriet Powers' Bible Quilt or Philip Simmons' namesake gates. While Ms Holland depicts them ably, actually seeing them, even in photographs, is a breathtaking experience. I'm already mentally planning a trip to see as many of these as I can, likely starting with James Hampton's The Throne of the Third Heaven of the Nations’ Millennium General Assembly, the iconic work of yard show art currently on display at the Smithsonian American Art Museum.
I don't usually talk about author's personal lives in my reviews, but I found it striking how Mr Awake discusses his own position as a artisan who never finished college in his introduction. Frankly, he's done an exemplary job with this book of essays, rivaling anything I've ever read by writers more firmly rooted in academia. Genuinely the only thing I thought was missing here was a deeper interrogation of how race is used to cover up the relentless class warfare waged by wealthy Americans against the poor. While he does touch on it briefly when discussing the exploitation of enslaved cabinetmakers by white shop owners who claimed the designs as their own, he doesn't point out the parallels with modern capitalism. Perhaps he doesn't need to. Regardless, I understand how the subject may be well outside of the scope and intent of this book.
That said, I did appreciate how he talked about his own background as the son of Ethopian immigrants. The current conversation on who counts as Black in America is a truly thorny one that I don't feel at all qualified to discuss, but I appreciate how he lays out his own origins so that others can make their own judgments on how to approach his work. This kind of transparency is refreshing, and a subtle rebuke to authors who try to obscure their own backgrounds in order to grant themselves greater authority on the subjects they're discussing.
A Short History Of Black Craft In Ten Objects by Robell Awake was published February 4 2025 by Princeton Architectural Press and is available from all good booksellers, including Bookshop!
November 20, 2025
Pros:
- this short history manages to span so many centuries and pack so much information into a tiny package
- the book is written accessibly and takes the time to explain terms and technical details so that even someone as craft challenged as I am can easily follow along
- Awake tracks these crafts from beginning to end, showing how the fall of many of these craft movements were due to gentrifying forces and the mass production efforts of capitalism that stamp out individualism everywhere
- the thing that I appreciate the most about Black historians is their inclusion of *names*. The history of Black artisans is largely obscured by laws restricting the ability of Black folks to read and write, of intentional erasure, and of forced displacement, and so to be able to give these people- Dave the potter, Ann Lowe, Boston- their names back, is an incredible testament to how these people refused to be silenced
- of all the items in here, I think Dave the potter's work is my favorite just because it's so defiant. Writing his name and his poetry on common household pieces that would be seen again and again when it was illegal for him to know how to write? I'm planning a visit to the Met to see his work in person because I need to
Cons:
- you will need to start saving money immediately because the way Awake writes about these artifacts makes you want to jump up and go see them for yourself ASAP
Overall:
This is a book that should be required reading in every US school. This book challenges the narrative that Black labor was always unskilled and that designs belonged to white factory owners and not the hands and minds that created them. It's too often that Americans can't name a single Black craftsperson when our country is in fact built on their labor, thier creativity, and this book is the first stepping stone in giving some of that credit back
- this short history manages to span so many centuries and pack so much information into a tiny package
- the book is written accessibly and takes the time to explain terms and technical details so that even someone as craft challenged as I am can easily follow along
- Awake tracks these crafts from beginning to end, showing how the fall of many of these craft movements were due to gentrifying forces and the mass production efforts of capitalism that stamp out individualism everywhere
- the thing that I appreciate the most about Black historians is their inclusion of *names*. The history of Black artisans is largely obscured by laws restricting the ability of Black folks to read and write, of intentional erasure, and of forced displacement, and so to be able to give these people- Dave the potter, Ann Lowe, Boston- their names back, is an incredible testament to how these people refused to be silenced
- of all the items in here, I think Dave the potter's work is my favorite just because it's so defiant. Writing his name and his poetry on common household pieces that would be seen again and again when it was illegal for him to know how to write? I'm planning a visit to the Met to see his work in person because I need to
Cons:
- you will need to start saving money immediately because the way Awake writes about these artifacts makes you want to jump up and go see them for yourself ASAP
Overall:
This is a book that should be required reading in every US school. This book challenges the narrative that Black labor was always unskilled and that designs belonged to white factory owners and not the hands and minds that created them. It's too often that Americans can't name a single Black craftsperson when our country is in fact built on their labor, thier creativity, and this book is the first stepping stone in giving some of that credit back
June 23, 2025
In this fascinating material history of Black America, readers discover Richard Poynor’s chairs, Philip Simmons’s wrought-iron gates, and many more incredible artisans and their creations from across American history. Highlighting their centrality to American art, design, and the development of both, this incredible book includes images of both the objects and their creators throughout, giving readers the chance to put names to creations and highlight the breadth of Black art and design over centuries. A fascinating and unique way to shape art history and Black American culture, Awake is a brilliant maker, artisan, and educator himself whose unique insights and understanding of art gives readers a complex and digestible window into this fascinating history. Dr. Tiffany Mormon’s afterword offers insights to the future historiography and memorialization of these artisans and their work, which adds a more formal academic angle to this book meant for broad audiences. Short, full of images, and broken into easy and understandable sections, this book is a brilliant and straightforward introduction to this fascinating culture, and the balance of information makes it a great gateway for interested readers of all abilities. An excellent, immersive, and engaging read, this is a must-read for those interested in design and art history.
Thanks to NetGalley, Chronicle Books, and Princeton Architectural Press for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley, Chronicle Books, and Princeton Architectural Press for the advance copy.
July 5, 2025
really enjoyed this and found myself sharing various parts of it with my wife as I was reading through it. there's a lot of great info in here even though it is such a short book. it's a shame that photos of the objects being discussed aren't included (there are illustrations, though not all of them are of the specific piece being written about), but I was able to find them online easy enough. this has really reframed my thinking on crafts and art objects, on which ones are remembered (and who they're credited to) and just how many skilled artists have been lost to time due to the racist regime we live under in the United States.
I was especially struck by David Drake, a potter who risked great harm by inscribing his pottery with his name (at the time it was illegal for enslaved people to be literate, and they definitely were not allowed to take credit for their own work that was being sold by their enslavers) and by the various quilt makers. I've only just started dipping my toe into quiltmaking, and seeing what these women were able to create given the time and limitations is extremely inspiring. the abstract quilts made by the women of Gee's Bend are fascinating, and I'm now seriously contemplating a trip to Alabama to see their works in person.
every artisan written about in this book deserves so much more acclaim and recognition, and I hope many people involved in current craft spaces pick this one up to educate themselves on the history of our chosen fields.
I was especially struck by David Drake, a potter who risked great harm by inscribing his pottery with his name (at the time it was illegal for enslaved people to be literate, and they definitely were not allowed to take credit for their own work that was being sold by their enslavers) and by the various quilt makers. I've only just started dipping my toe into quiltmaking, and seeing what these women were able to create given the time and limitations is extremely inspiring. the abstract quilts made by the women of Gee's Bend are fascinating, and I'm now seriously contemplating a trip to Alabama to see their works in person.
every artisan written about in this book deserves so much more acclaim and recognition, and I hope many people involved in current craft spaces pick this one up to educate themselves on the history of our chosen fields.
February 23, 2025
In 1865, according to historian James E. Newton, Black skilled artisans in the southern United States outnumbered white artisans five to one. There were one hundred thousand Black artisans, but only twenty thousand white artisans. Exact numbers are an estimate.
Black history and Black identity are under attack in the USA. Here is a new resource that tells the truth about hidden, unrevealed U.S. artisan history and how some of the artists used their craft to fight for freedom.
Robell Awake has written A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects. He profiles the Black folks who innovated in furniture making, quilt making, couturier, iron work, art and several other fields.
Awake is a chair maker, teacher, and researcher based in Atlanta, Georgia.
Not counting the notes, the book is 138 pages, with wonderful illustrations by Johnalynn Holland. The story about face jugs and artist David Drake, also known as Dave the Potter is inspiring. Awake calls Dave one of the most important ceramicists in American History.
Sweetgrass baskets and Gullah art receive much attention. The chapter about fashion designer Ann Lowe is an eye opener. The history of Black quilting is great. There’s plenty more.
The book is a short overview of an element of Black history, and the people connected to it, that you may know little about, so check it out!
Black history and Black identity are under attack in the USA. Here is a new resource that tells the truth about hidden, unrevealed U.S. artisan history and how some of the artists used their craft to fight for freedom.
Robell Awake has written A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects. He profiles the Black folks who innovated in furniture making, quilt making, couturier, iron work, art and several other fields.
Awake is a chair maker, teacher, and researcher based in Atlanta, Georgia.
Not counting the notes, the book is 138 pages, with wonderful illustrations by Johnalynn Holland. The story about face jugs and artist David Drake, also known as Dave the Potter is inspiring. Awake calls Dave one of the most important ceramicists in American History.
Sweetgrass baskets and Gullah art receive much attention. The chapter about fashion designer Ann Lowe is an eye opener. The history of Black quilting is great. There’s plenty more.
The book is a short overview of an element of Black history, and the people connected to it, that you may know little about, so check it out!
January 6, 2025
I wasn't sure what to expect when I saw this book, but I knew I'd definitely learn something I didn't know before. This is a truly fascinating look at Black craftmakers, from the days of slavery to today. It focuses on many items that, as the author suggests, are so 'everyday' (like a chair, a cabinet, a front porch) that we are either unaware of or simply taking for granted the Black excellence involved in their making. This book is engaging and accessible, sharing important knowledge while not being too bogged down in academic verbiage (which I appreciate!) Each artist and craft highlighted tells an overarching story of Black resistance, tradition, and perseverance.
For me, the *only* downside to this book is that I do wish there had been actual photographs of the original crafts. Stylistically, I like the illustrations, but I found myself distracted by falling down the Google rabbit hole to see actual images.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
For me, the *only* downside to this book is that I do wish there had been actual photographs of the original crafts. Stylistically, I like the illustrations, but I found myself distracted by falling down the Google rabbit hole to see actual images.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 4, 2025
A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects is a small but powerful book that showcases the work of Black artisans and craftspeople throughout American history. Perfectly released at the beginning of Black History Month, it is academic enough to satisfy my more scholarly soul but accessible enough to be truly interesting and not devolve into the pedantic. This is how I love to learn about history! History isn't just about battles on rolling hills and political machinations. It is women creating beautiful and serviceable quilts with what they could scrape together, designing and sewing wedding dresses by hand, finessing new styles of chairs that not only look interesting but are more comfortable. The only thing keeping me from giving it 5 stars is that I wanted even more pictures. The illustrations were lovely, but some photographs of remaining artifacts and productions of the more recent artisans would have added that extra something special.
Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books | Princeton Architectural Press for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and Chronicle Books | Princeton Architectural Press for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
February 18, 2025
Robell Awake, himself a craftsperson, shares his love, admiration, and respect for our African American craftsmen and women in this brief history. The reader is introduced to little known men and women who not only helped create and shape black craft in America, but also who learned and practiced their trade while enslaved. This book is enlightening, to say the least.
Each short chapter is devoted to a different craftsperson, along with hand drawn illustrations that add to the beauty of the book. The illustrations are demonstrative of the era of slavery; while many may prefer photographs, the illustrations lend authenticity to the text.
Readers will be enchanted by potters, cabinetmakers, chair makers, basket weavers, blacksmiths, architects, quilters, couturiers, and yard artists: All African American artisans, many who learned their crafts while still free in their home countries in Africa and given little or no credit for their intellect, artistry, or humanity are celebrated by Awake.
Each short chapter is devoted to a different craftsperson, along with hand drawn illustrations that add to the beauty of the book. The illustrations are demonstrative of the era of slavery; while many may prefer photographs, the illustrations lend authenticity to the text.
Readers will be enchanted by potters, cabinetmakers, chair makers, basket weavers, blacksmiths, architects, quilters, couturiers, and yard artists: All African American artisans, many who learned their crafts while still free in their home countries in Africa and given little or no credit for their intellect, artistry, or humanity are celebrated by Awake.
February 4, 2025
In A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects, author Robell Awake introduces us to ten outstanding examples of the craft and crafters who shaped American culture through the 19th and 20th centuries. From quilts to pottery, Awake examines not only the extraordinary work of these ten artisans, but their contributions to art history.
I loved reading about these artisans, especially knowing that much of their history was either not recorded or deliberately suppressed. I had heard of several of them (coincidentally, I recently read a book about the enslaved potters in South Carolina, which introduced me to these crafters), but even in these brief essays there is much to learn. My only criticism is that, although the book is illustrated beautifully, there are no pictures of the actual works discussed.
Many thanks to Chronicle Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
I loved reading about these artisans, especially knowing that much of their history was either not recorded or deliberately suppressed. I had heard of several of them (coincidentally, I recently read a book about the enslaved potters in South Carolina, which introduced me to these crafters), but even in these brief essays there is much to learn. My only criticism is that, although the book is illustrated beautifully, there are no pictures of the actual works discussed.
Many thanks to Chronicle Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
February 10, 2025
I heard an interview with the author and was excited to read the book. I was disappointed by the writing as well as the illustrations and text formatting (left justified) which made the book seem amateurish. Instead of using actual photographs of the craftwork mentioned in the book, items were illustrated, and in some cases, embellished and abstracted beyond recognition. This in turn made the book feel like a picture-book for elementary-aged and middle school readers.
At times, I wasn’t sure if the book was focused on ten objects, ten crafts, or individual artists. For example, two chapters dealt with quilting—Harriet Powers and the quilters of Gee’s Bend. While another chapter discussed David Drake, Edgefield, and Face Jugs, lumping everything related to ceramics in a single chapter.
As a student of art history, I am familiar with most of the people mentioned in the book and support any effort to have their work recognized. I just wish the book lived up to the hype.
At times, I wasn’t sure if the book was focused on ten objects, ten crafts, or individual artists. For example, two chapters dealt with quilting—Harriet Powers and the quilters of Gee’s Bend. While another chapter discussed David Drake, Edgefield, and Face Jugs, lumping everything related to ceramics in a single chapter.
As a student of art history, I am familiar with most of the people mentioned in the book and support any effort to have their work recognized. I just wish the book lived up to the hype.
June 15, 2025
This small book of illustrated essays highlights but a few of the Black artisans who made enduring contributions to the American creative aesthetic with works of beauty and innovation. This includes the dressmaker for Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding, gorgeous wrought iron designs, pottery, furniture and, my favorite two, the Gee’s Bend quilters and Gullah Geechee basket makers, of whom our locals and visitors alike have the privilege of witnessing firsthand this beautiful tradition.
The author Robell Awake is an accomplished artist himself. Check out his Instagram page for photos of some wonderful and whimsical chairs.
This inspiring book will make an excellent gift for anyone who appreciates arts and crafts and will be a vital addition to both home and office libraries.
Many thanks to Chronicle Books | Princeton Architectural Press and NetGalley for providing this e-galley.
The author Robell Awake is an accomplished artist himself. Check out his Instagram page for photos of some wonderful and whimsical chairs.
This inspiring book will make an excellent gift for anyone who appreciates arts and crafts and will be a vital addition to both home and office libraries.
Many thanks to Chronicle Books | Princeton Architectural Press and NetGalley for providing this e-galley.
February 17, 2025
*ARC received via Netgalley*
True to its title, this is a short and quick overview intended to pique the curiosity of the reader and acknowledge the talent and importance of the mentioned artists. It was fascinating to learn about new to me art and artists and also learn the history of some things that I've seen my entire life and didn't realize the significance of its symbolism and existence. I particularly loved the portions on quilting (both sections) and porches. The artwork featured was beautiful, though I do wish there had been actual photographs of the referenced artworks. I ended up looking up quite a few, but maybe that's part of the idea, to get readers interested enough to look it up themselves and learn even more.
True to its title, this is a short and quick overview intended to pique the curiosity of the reader and acknowledge the talent and importance of the mentioned artists. It was fascinating to learn about new to me art and artists and also learn the history of some things that I've seen my entire life and didn't realize the significance of its symbolism and existence. I particularly loved the portions on quilting (both sections) and porches. The artwork featured was beautiful, though I do wish there had been actual photographs of the referenced artworks. I ended up looking up quite a few, but maybe that's part of the idea, to get readers interested enough to look it up themselves and learn even more.
February 4, 2025
This beautifully illustrated volume explores the rich history of Black craft in America through ten iconic objects. From enslaved chairmakers and ironworkers to renowned quilters and couture dressmakers, this book celebrates the ingenuity and enduring legacy of Black artisans. Featuring insightful essays and vibrant artwork, this book helps bring to light some little-known aspects of American history. The books is a valuable resource for art enthusiasts, history buffs, and anyone interested in the dynamic intersection of Black art, craft, and culture.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Thanks, NetGalley, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
March 7, 2025
This was such a unique and inspiring read for me. It was made even more special to have had the opportunity to read it in the month of February and Black History Month. I loved seeing all of the beautiful crafts and learning the history behind them. My preteen daughter's dream is to be an artist. She is so creative and loves creating through crafting. I proudly shared some of the beautiful artwork/crafts with her to show her the importance of art and its impact on the world. She found this motivating and inspiring and it really reinforced her artistic pursuits.
This was a really great read that I highly recommend.
This was a really great read that I highly recommend.
March 19, 2025
This is a wonderful introduction to crafts created by black hands. I'd heard of many of these craftspeople before - Dave the Potter, and the Gees Bend Quilters - but the furniture makers, and the woman who designed Jackie Kennedy's wedding dress (only to be dissed by the bride in a later interview) were quite enlightening. I was particularly enchanted by the yard shows chapter.
This is a fascinating book for anyone wishing to learn more about the important and inspiring creations of black artisans through the centuries. I'd have given this five stars if there'd only been more illustrations.
Thanks to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for sharing this.
This is a fascinating book for anyone wishing to learn more about the important and inspiring creations of black artisans through the centuries. I'd have given this five stars if there'd only been more illustrations.
Thanks to NetGalley and Chronicle Books for sharing this.
April 27, 2025
This is a lovely, short book that does exactly what its title promises. It features ten objects by black craftspeople with accompanying essays about the craftsperson's life and work. Unsurprisingly, it reveals how early Black artisans had their work co-opted by white people, whether they were enslavers or business people. But many of the craftspeople identified their work or managed to use it for subtle acts of rebellion. Despite being a fairly well-educated person, I am constantly reminded by how little I actually know and this book was an eye-opener for me. Highly recommend. #AShortHistoryofBlackCraftinTenObjects #NetGalley
May 15, 2025
This book caught my eye on display at my local public library. Beautifully written and documented with wonderful illustrations by Johnalynn Holland. I learned so much. I knew about Gee's Bend quilters and was lucky enough to see several in a show at the Blanton Museum in Austin. But I did not know about Face Jugs, cabinetmakers, and architecture. The story of Couturier Anne Lowe (who made Jacqueline Kennedy's wedding dress, mostly by hand--twice!! because the first one was ruined in a flood) is fascinating and heartbreaking. I'm glad she's finally getting some of her due with exhibitions of her work.
February 23, 2025
17 years ago my husband and I moved to South Carolina. We soon became fascinated with the crafts of the region….pottery, face jugs, sweet grass baskets, iron gates, quilts, and beautiful front porches. This book tells wonderful historical documentations of the history of black craft in the south. I found myself researching and reading more about each craft and the individuals who created artwork still enjoyed today. The author, Robell Awake, is an amazing chairmaker from Atlanta, Georgia. Loved this book!
February 10, 2025
A quick, accessible, informative read about Black artists and craftspeople throughout history that will send you on a hunt to dig deeper into the figures that most capture your interest. From architecture and woodworking to quilting and ceramics, Robell Awake highlights ten areas of American craft innovated by Black creators. The illustrations are a really lovely addition, but I wish we also got photographs of some of the works described!
March 22, 2025
A very brief overview of 10 historically relevant items that have been crafted by black artisans and craftspeople. These stories really exemplify the endearing spirits of these people in the face of political and cultural stigmatization. All but one of these stories was new to me so it’s interesting information even if it is short.
April 15, 2025
This is a lovely and informative book about the history of black crafts and artisans, making a great case for how skilled many of the enslaved people were before they were even brought to this country. The illustrations are really pretty but I wish there had been photographs of the work which I know would have made it a different and more expensive book.
August 3, 2025
Interesting artists - need more real pictures
I enjoyed learning about these artists and the contexts in which their work was created. I really wish the author had given us pictures of the works he referenced. There are a very few drawings but not the works themselves. Otherwise a good start to black artists.
I enjoyed learning about these artists and the contexts in which their work was created. I really wish the author had given us pictures of the works he referenced. There are a very few drawings but not the works themselves. Otherwise a good start to black artists.
February 8, 2025
If you want to learn pieces of history that you didn't know about - read this book. History on quilts, chairs, blacksmithing, sculptors, baskets, etc. 10 items that have shaped our history and how we live today.
February 21, 2025
Had to read this one for Black History Month after hearing an interview with the author on NPR. Concise and easily readable, you can finish this one in a day or over a weekend. So much more than just "art history" - psychology, sociology, politics, geography, and more.
FYI porches are Black.
FYI porches are Black.
February 27, 2025
It was very interesting and a quick read. My 3-stars is possibly unfair, because I wanted more. I wanted more photos, more history -- just more.
I hope there's another book that comes out of this. It's a story worthy telling over and over.
I hope there's another book that comes out of this. It's a story worthy telling over and over.
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