Alert readers will find hidden messages in some of the collages, but what stands out in these pictures are Dave's hands and eyes, and the strength of his body, reflected in the shape and size of his legendary jars and pots. Collier's earth-toned watercolor and collage art extends the story, showing the landscape, materials, and architecture of a South Carolina farm.
The pithy lines themselves recall the short poems that Dave inscribed on his pots. Rural imagery–a robin's puffed breast, a carnival wheel–remind readers of Dave's surroundings. The movements of Dave's hands are described using familiar, solid verbs: pulling, pinching, squeezing, pounding.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wishes to learn more about a noble man whos spirit and art has spoken through the ages.K-Gr 4–The life of an astonishingly prolific and skilled potter who lived and died a slave in 19th-century South Carolina is related in simple, powerful sentences that outline the making of a pot. Bryan Collier blends both watercolors and collage images in this beautiful tale of finding freedom in the darkest of places. Included in the back of this book is information about Dave, all his poems, and how he has inspired both the writer and illustrator in their own lives. No more than two lines, these poems have also been honored in this piece of work as the writer has drawn upon Dave’s own inspiration to try and tell his story. He wrote on a number of his pieces small poems that highlight his nature, his surroundings, and his servitude.
Bryan Collier was the winner of the Coretta Scott King Award in 2010, and a brief look at this picture book/biography will tell you why.īased on the artwork of Dave, an artist and slave living in South Carolina during the 1800’s, the author and illustrator have created a beautifully articulated and crafted book that shows not only the beauty of pottery and in creating it, but also the freeing nature of artwork, particularly to one who is enslaved.ĭave was not only a potter, he was also a poet. To continue with those winners or honorees of the Coretta Scott King Award, I’ve chosen Dave the Potter: Artist, Poet, Slave by Laban Carrick illustrated by Bryan Collier. Dave the Potter by Laban Carrick Hill Illustrated by Bryan Collier
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