Authors @ Alden series to spotlight new book on artist Aminah Robinson

OHIO Libraries will virtually host Carole Genshaft and Deidre Hamlar to talk about the recently released book, “Raggin’ On: The Art of Aminah Brenda Lynn Robinson’s House and Journals,” as part of the Authors @ Alden series on Nov. 16 at 2:30 p.m. 

Genshaft, who edited the book, is the curator-at-large of the Columbus Museum of Art (CMA). The book, “Raggin’ On,” published by the Ohio University Press, contains images of artist Aminah Robinson’s home and furnishings, and her art and writings, which were all left to the CMA when she died in 2015. 

“In 1989, I spent many months interviewing Aminah and was able to record her thoughts about many subjects related to her work,” said Genshaft, who enjoyed a close relationship with Robinson. “I believe these insights have guided the direction of the book to some extent, but that the views of the other essayists add new perspectives.”

Much of Robinson’s work is a reflection on her own personal story and on the experiences of her ancestors with slavery, liberation and migration. She created button-beaded tapestries and layered “mud rag” books and dolls, as well as woodcut prints and drawings on handmade paper.   

Hamlar is co-curating an exhibit of Robinson’s work with Genshaft, which is set to go on display at the CMA in November 2020 and remain until October 2021. During their Authors @ Alden talk, Genshaft and Hamlar will be interviewed by Dr. Jennie Klein, who is a professor of art history in the School of Art and Design. Both Genshaft and Hamlar have contributed essays in the book. 

“Deidre Hamlar and I will focus on the content of the book,” Genshaft said. “It is a very unique story because the book and exhibition focus on the contents of an artist’s home studio.”

Genshaft said that during her lifetime, Robinson was a strong advocate for social justice, women and African American history in America, which would make her work especially thought-provoking for those interested in art, art history, African American studies, women’s studies, political science and American history. 

“But the work and its message are extremely timely and of interest to all during this time of reflection and action concerning systematic racism and social justice,” she said.

Genshaft hopes that those who attend the talk, like those who read the book, will experience the essence of Robinson’s work, which many characterize as “sacred,” and that students and scholars will be inspired to consider studying Robinson’s work in depth.  

Click here to register for the Authors @ Alden talk on Nov. 16 at 2:30 p.m. This event is free and open to the public.  

To request accessibility accommodations or for more information, contact Jen Harvey at harveyj1@ohio.edu.