Published in conjunction with the exhibitions beginning in September 2000 organized by The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture and Exhibitions International, this volume presents a collection of contemporary work as testimony to the continuing struggle for social justice, cultural identity, and spiritual and personal fulfillment experienced by Southern African Americans. It contains about 100 color paintings, drawings, and sculptures by 27 self-taught black artists. The six themes comprise witnessing history; the representation of allegorical animals, iconic figures, and religious scenes; spiritual and protective messages; and the direct observation of daily life. Essays by distinguished scholars offer critical viewpoints on current issues. Short biographies of the artists, accompanied by their own words, are interwoven with the illustrations.

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