In the Making: Robell Awake Conversation & Book Signing

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 the author!

Join us in-person or virtually for this enriching discussion.

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.

Live streamed from NBSS
Virtual, free, and open to all

This conversation is part of In the Making, a public programs series where we connect with a range of new voices, fields, and perspectives. Learn more on the series homepage.