“Black is a Rainbow Color” Interview
When describing BLACK IS A RAINBOW COLOR, what's your elevator pitch?
I love this book because it’s the kind of scenario Black parents find themselves in and aren’t necessarily prepared for. Angela Joys text prepares us! A mother is getting ready to give her children a Black History lesson when her daughter gives her a quizzical look and says, “But mommy we are not Black, we are brown!” At that moment Mom realizes she has not set the “Black” foundation of history and culture with her children. The poem that follows beautifully outlines the tapestry of black as a color, Black as a culture, Black as a people.
What was your strategy for illustrating “Black Is A Rainbow Color.”
I wanted to base my illustrations on coloring books. A coloring book, common to all children, features black line drawings that allow them to collaborate by deciding what colors go where. Will the birds be blue or purple or will the person be black or “flesh?” Children are familiar with making these choices as they go about their creative work. I thought that was a great context for them to consider the power of the color “Black.” Secondly, I thought about including a reference to stained glass, an art-form that requires light to be truly appreciated. Like the history of Black Americans, once we shine a light on the story, we see its great complexity, depth, detail, and beauty.
What is a book you wished you’d illustrated?
It’s hard to imagine illustrating a book that’s already been done but I have loved all of my projects to date and look forward to the new manuscript that will call my name.
Tell us about a librarian or educator who made an impact on you.
My Aunt, Ms. Barbara Clarke Elam was a librarian. In her time, as a Black librarian, she was a rare creature. A Simmons graduate in Library Science, she went on to train School Librarians in Boston. Many express their indebtedness to her for opening up the world of literature and education to them. She taught by her actions that reading was fundamental to a rich inner life. It was her love for sharing books and innumerable trips with her and my cousins to the Egleston Branch of the Boston Public library in Roxbury that introduced me to art, found on the pages of books like “Curious George,” “Make Way for Ducklings” and “Madeline and the Bad Hat.” The images in those books intrigued me as a child and set my feet on the path to becoming a visual artist. Every Holiday season, under the tree, there was a book from her, selected just for me and just right for me.
What is the first step in your creative process?
Reading and rereading the manuscript. Reading it out loud. Recently I’ve begun taping myself and listening to myself reading the manuscript. Makes for a great before bed activity with a nice cup of tea. Next, I think about colors and the mood I want to set for the book. Then on research: Google and the Public Library.
What was your favorite book when you were 10 years old?
I can only remember what was NOT my favorite – Canterbury Tales!! But I was in love with Greek and Roman Mythology…