Ashley Bryan in Song

Now 98 years old, the celebrated artist and author Ashley Bryan has committed his life to filling the void of Black representation in children’s literature. A critical part of this work has been sharing the rich heritage of spirituals, miraculous songs of faith and resistance born from the horrors of enslavement. Frustrated when he couldn’t find any collections of spirituals for young readers, Bryan set out to illustrate the songs himself. He has interpreted the lyrics in various media, from linoleum block prints to tempera paint and vibrant cut-paper collages. Bryan has written and spoken extensively on spirituals, and the exhibition is told in his own words.

Thu, Fri 10am - 4pm
Sat 10am - 5pm
Sun 12pm - 5pm
Mon,Tue, & Wed CLOSED

Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art
125 West Bay Road

Amherst, MA