In honor of Black History Month, let's shine a spotlight on ten Black crafts people who are not only breaking the mold but smashing it to smithereens. These artisans are redefining their crafts with innovation, flair, and a healthy dose of audacity. Buckle up; it's going to be a wild ride.
1. Lorna Hamilton-Brown (Knitting)
Dubbed the "Banksy of knitting," Lorna Hamilton-Brown doesn't just knit scarves for your grandma. She tackles societal issues head-on, using yarn as her weapon of choice. Her pieces challenge stereotypes and highlight the often-overlooked contributions of Black crafters in a field that's been, let's face it, pretty vanilla.
The piece below is titled 'Do Not Bleach' and Hamilton-Brown the artist has this to say about the purpose behind this piece: "This artwork is a plea to people to stop bleaching their skin because of what is called Colourism. This is where people with darker skins are discriminated against. Oscar-winning actor Lupita Nyong’o referred to colourism as “the daughter of racism” in “a world that rewards lighter skin over darker skin”.
Lorna Hamilton-Brown, 'Do Not Bleach'
2. Toni Lipsey (Crochet/Knitting)
A self-described 'true crime-loving bookworm with a hint of wanderlust', If you think Toni is out here crocheting doilies and granny squares, we're here to set you straight. As the founder of TL Yarn Crafts, she offers modern designs and tutorials that make you wonder why you ever underestimated crochet. Her approachable patterns and engaging online presence have garnered her a dedicated following.
Toni Lipsey, Tunisian Crochet Blanket
And the best thing for you readers? Toni has a number of free knitting and crochet patterns on her site that we can't wait to try, such as the Tunisian Crochet blanket pattern pictured above.
3. Sherród Faulks (Ceramics)
Sherród Faulks, the creative force behind DEEP BLACK, crafts ceramics that are as bold as they are functional. From sleek cappuccino cups to avant-garde vases, his work brings a contemporary edge to your everyday rituals. Who knew ceramics could be this cool?
Sherrod Faulks with a selection of the artist's plant pots
4. Diedrick Brackens (Weaving)
Diedrick Brackens weaves narratives that are as intricate as his tapestries. Exploring themes of identity, race, and queerness, his work is a masterclass in storytelling through textiles. Each piece invites you to unravel layers of meaning, challenging your perceptions with every thread.
Diedrick Brackens, the last labor, 2003
5. Leilah Babirye (Sculpture)
Leilah Babirye transforms discarded materials into powerful sculptures that celebrate queer identity and African heritage. Babiyre, a native Ugandan now living in New York, uses what society deems as "rubbish," turning it into profound statements on culture and self-acceptance. The artist's use of materials that others have discarded is intentional, and related to the Luganda language. In Luganda, the term 'abasiyazi' means sugarcane husk - the part you throw out - and is a pejorative term for gay a person in Uganda.
Leilah Babiyre, Rukirabasaija from the Kuchu Western Bunyoro Kingdom, 2023
The artist says of the work, “Through the act of burning, nailing and assembling, I aim to address the realities of being gay in the context of Uganda and Africa in general. Recently, my working process has been fueled by a need to find a language to respond to the recent passing of the anti-homosexuality bill in Uganda.”
6. Bisa Butler (Quilting)
Bisa Butler's quilts are anything but your grandma's bedspread. Vibrant, intricate, and deeply narrative, her work celebrates Black life and culture in technicolor. Each quilt is a tapestry of stories, stitched together with a kaleidoscope of fabrics.
Bisa Butler, Dear Mama, 2019
7. Savaree Hazard-Chaney (Rug Tufting)
Meet Savaree Hazard-Chaney, the trailblazer behind TuftxPVD, Rhode Island's first Black-owned rug tufting studio. She describes tufting as "painting, but with yarn," and her vibrant, textured pieces are nothing short of masterpieces. By bringing this modern spin on traditional rug-making to Providence, she's not just creating art—she's fostering a community of creativity.
Savaree Hazard-Chaney with 'The Creative Capital'
8. Simone Elizabeth Saunders (Punch Needle Embroidery)
Simone Elizabeth Saunders uses punch needle embroidery to create powerful portraits that celebrate Black identity and womanhood. Her vibrant works are rich in texture and symbolism, offering a contemporary take on a traditional craft. Each piece is a testament to her skill and a narrative on culture and empowerment.
Simone Elizabeth Saunders with 'Olympia's Oasis'
9. Brittany Garber (Crochet and Knitting)
Brittany, the creative force behind the Makers of Color Collective, is a dynamo in the fiber arts community. Not only does she crochet and knit, but she also curates a directory of fiber makers and their patterns, amplifying voices that deserve to be heard. Her designs are as dynamic as her advocacy, making her a standout figure in the crafting world.
Brittan Garber, Prism Path Shawl
7. Jonah Larson (Crochet)
Jonah Larson, a crochet prodigy from La Crosse, Wisconsin, began his journey with yarn at the tender age of five. Now in his teens, Jonah has captivated the crafting world with his intricate designs and speed, earning him the nickname "Jonah Hands." His creations range from vibrant blankets to delicate doilies, each piece showcasing a mastery well beyond his years.
Jonah Larson of Jonah's Hands, with his crochet cowl
Beyond his personal crafting, Jonah is deeply committed to philanthropy. Through his business, Jonah's Hands, he has raised funds to build a library and a science lab in Ethiopia, the country of his birth. His story has been featured in prominent publications and shows, including The New York Times, Forbes, and The Today Show.
Jonah's passion for crochet and his dedication to giving back exemplify the profound impact that young crafters can have on both the art world and global communities.
Final thoughts...
These artisans are just a few of those in the black community redefining their crafts with innovation and flair, proving that the world of making is vast, vibrant, and inclusive. This Black History Month, let's celebrate their contributions and the rich diversity they bring to the creative community.
And if you have any favorite black artisans we'd love to hear more about them - leave us a comment!