Afro-American Tradition in Decorative Arts

John Vlach's book is one of the most important contributions to the study of African-American folklore. Prior to Vlach's study, there had been well-documented and interesting studies of folklore within African-American communities. But Vlach's work is the first thorough study of material folk culture that any folklore researcher had completed on African-American folk culture. It's an in-depth and interesting study, and Vlach paved the way for additional research, some of which offers perspectives and interpretations that critique Vlach's findings. The book is essential reading for anyone interested in black history and culture, and it is filled with excellent documentation and intriguing insights that set the stage a range of important issues that are worth further examination.

i was only vaguely familiar with the subject of african american decorative arts before reading this book a number of years ago. i have since become very familiar with the material, not only as a reader, but as a collector as well. i continue to go back to this book often. it is very informative, and very detailed. it is a must for anyone interested in the decorative arts. two other books i can recommend are signs and symbols: african american quilts by maude s.wahlman, and especially souls grown deep: african american vernacular art of the south, volume one (tinwood books, 2000) by multiple authors. the latter book is, i believe, an essential reader and study guide for anyone interested in art.