In honor of Black history, we will explore a timeline of African American art. We hope to highlight a few of the many forms of visual expression created by black artists that have helped shape today’s culture. Student artists will learn some of the origins and shifts of African art, folk art, contemporary abstract art, and collaborative art. We hope to show the evolution of artistic expression and social justice themes, as well as allow artists the space to express themselves so they may contribute their voices to this ongoing story and cultural development.

Week 1:
Exploring Roots/ African Art : Colonware pottery
In this session, we will learn about the African Diaspora and the impact of the Middle Passage on European and Indigenous pottery. We will explore the influence of other cultures in artistic creation and discuss themes of influence, appropriation, and appreciation. Students will create functional clay earthenware pieces and learn decoration techniques while they learn about the symbolism used in the original roots of Colonoware in the southern states.