A History of African-American Artists: From 1792 to the Present

This is quite simply one of the best books I've ever read. As an avid reader, I do not make that claim lightly. What makes this book so remarkable is how Bearden and Henderson both bring the artists to life and give you a deep appreciation for their work. No other book I've read on the arts has left me similarly breathless. While many of them have been quite competent at explaining things like "Impressionism," "The Renaissance," or "The Harlem Renaissance," none have so beautifully balanced an explanation of the artist and of the artist's work. By bringing the people to life, Bearden and Henderson have brought the art to life. They have made a priceless contribution to our understanding of African-American artists, their work and the challenges they had to overcome to pursue their passion. This book is a must-have. It will deepen your appreciation of art and of the contributions that African-Americans have made to it. Katrina M. Walker

This book is a great resource for teachers of American art or culture. Each chapter provides an interesting biography of the artist along with descriptions of his or her work. Students respond to the art more fully by knowing something of the struggles and daily realities faced by each artist. A great resource for teachers or for the school library.

This outstanding potrait of little-known, but great and wonderful African American Artists should be required reading for all fine arts programs... The depth of research is evident and this work, a work of Art itself, is to be treasured and placed within the archives of the world's great libraries and the homes of all of us who love and appreciate great art and "Great Books"!..Sylvia Rosario, President,Black Satin Collectibles - email: [email protected]

Should be required reading in every educational institution. Its compilation and scope puts it into a sociological and historical context. The art and text are superb, all of which allows me to revisit these lives and the work they produced under the ugliest of conditions.