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In the Making: Robell Awake Conversation & Book Signing

February 27 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm

Furniture maker Robell Awake will join us to discuss his new book, A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects, debuting in February 2025.

Furniture maker Robell Awake will join us again (this time in person!) to discuss his new book, A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects, debuting in February 2025. The book explores the history of Black craftsmanship in America by examining ten significant handcrafted objects and highlighting the stories of the artisans behind them, including renowned figures like Richard Poynor (chairmaker), Philip Simmons (artisan and blacksmith), and Joe Minter (sculptor). It showcases the rich legacy of Black craft despite the historical challenges faced by artisans.

In addition to our conversation, A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects will be available for purchase and signing by its author!

You can join us in-person at North Bennet Street School or watch it live on Zoom. Register to receive a livestream link.

About Robell Awake

Robell Awake is a chairmaker, teacher, and researcher based in Atlanta, Georgia. His work aims to center Black aesthetic traditions and histories through scholarship and craft. He is a recipient of the Center for Craft’s Craft Research Fund Artist Fellowship and has taught at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship, Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts, Penland School of Craft, and the Woodworking School at Pine Croft, and has presented at the Furniture Society, Warren Wilson College, Berea College, Washington College, and the North Bennet Street School.