Visual Stories is an exhibit of fifty-one paintings by the renowned artist and children’s book illustrator, James Ransome, that depicts an extraordinary array of African American experiences, particularly from the Black South. The selected paintings span decades of collaboration with major publishers and numerous children’s authors, and reflect themes of emancipation from slavery, segregation and the Jim Crow era, and the strong family traditions that were necessary to maintain and keep the African American family together. Ransome’s paintings embody the powerful strength of family, faith, and fortitude that gives these people the courage to face difficult social and political conditions.
The paintings are grouped thematically: Everyday Life and Everyday Kin; Uncles, Aunts and Grandmothers; Emancipation; Miracles, Magic, Conjurers and Hants; Satchel Paige; Quilt Literacy; and Readin’, Ritin’ and Rithmetic.
In his own philosophical words, Ransome says, “I believe in drawing strong design and beautiful colors. When a painting works at its best, it should feel handcrafted, but also very simple and fundamental.”
Ransome has received numerous awards and honors including the coveted Coretta Scott King Award for Illustration, the Simon Wiesenthal Museum of Tolerance Award, and the prestigious NAACP Image Award for Illustration. His stunning watercolors illuminate the human condition and cross all cultural lines, conveying a universal message for everyone, everywhere.
In addition to the original oils, acrylics and watercolor paintings by Ransome, the copies of illustrated books in which his art is featured will be on display at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch through January 31st.
Two events that are being held in conjunction with this exhibit and select titles featuring James Ransomes’ illustrations can be found below.
For more details about exhibition tours and educational programming call
(216) 623-2822 or (216) 623-7018.
EVENTS
Por Qui Tales – Creation Stories
Enjoy an evening of traditional storytelling featuring an array of inspiring and
unique tellers including Donna L. Washington. Discover the visual significance of the “hidden” meanings behind these stories.
Thursday, December 11, 2008 at 6:00 p.m.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch
1962 Stokes Blvd.
Cleveland, Ohio 44106
A Kwanzaa event … Quilting Stories: Patterns & Promises
Inspiring storytellers and quilters from the Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers and the African American Quilt and Doll Guild will be featured sharing their favorite tales of hope and promise. Selected quilts will be on display. This program is in conjunction with the art exhibition
Friday, December 26, 2008 at 4:30 p.m.
Martin Luther King, Jr. Branch
1962 Stokes Blvd.
Cleveland, Ohio 44106
BOOKS
Let my people go : Bible stories told by a freeman of color to his daughter, Charlotte, in Charleston, South Carolina, 1806-16 by Patricia and Fredrick McKissack
The Jukebox Man by Jacqueline K. Ogburn
Satchel Paige by Lesa Cline-Ransome
Sweet Clara and the Freedom Quilt by Deborah Hopkinson's
Uncle Jed's Barbershop by Margaree King Mitchell
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