In the Making: Robell Awake Book Conversation
“Ironically, Black culture is seen as a monolith to dominant culture. But it’s so diverse and dynamic, and constantly gets reinvigorated by new folks from the diaspora coming in and bringing new elements. These stories show how syncretic and expansive the artistic production of Black culture is.”
On Thursday, February 27, 2025, we hosted furniture maker, scholar, and author Robell Awake to discuss his new book, A Short History of Black Craft in Ten Objects, which debuted 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.
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.
“In the Making” is a public programs series where we connect with a range of new voices, fields, and perspectives. Learn more and view a full list of events on the series homepage.
With thanks to our underwriters
Massachusetts Cultural Council
Holt & Bugbee
Adams + Beasley Associates
Columbia Contracting Corp.
BOND
Feinmann, Inc.
F.H. Perry Builder
Firestone & Parson Inc.
Inland Underwriters Insurance Agency
MUECKE Design & Construction
PACLOCK, with H to O Supply
In the Making: Ainsley Donaldson CF ’73
