American Progression
Philadelphia: Luminice Press, 2024. Hardcover. Number 3 of 12 copies, signed by the book artists. Thomas and Mary Agnes describe this interesting and introspective book about the state of America as follows: "In images and text, our artist book ‘American Progression’ encapsulates the sources of deep fissures in this country: white supremacy, the legacy of slavery, the constant influx of immigrants. And yet, there is progression beyond the fear and hate that separate Americans, as many find community and joy together, and share hope for the future."
The following offers excerpts from the text that capture the realities of both inequality and despair that exist, juxtaposed with the hope and affirmation that also define America today: “In 1950, 89.5% of Americans identified as white . . . By 2050, whites will be a minority (47%) . . . Many on the right bitterly resent losing privilege and power . . . . . They remember the easy days before civil rights . . . When an ordinary white man was always better and smarter . . . When the sheriff looked the other way . . . . Desperate to hold on, they search for a leader who will raise them up again, a savior who will take control and lead them back to the white promised land. …For hundreds of years African slaves were submerged in American soil: endless brutality in endless fields of cotton, rice, tobacco, sugar cane . . . .. Unlike Africans, Latino families have been desperate to escape their homes for a better, safer place, risking everything to migrate north . . . Poverty, injustice and hate are realities in America . . . Despite it all, people still find joy and see hope for the future . . . Black, brown, white . . . We can dance!”
The book is constructed as a double-sided accordion. It is printed on Stonehenge Polar White papers. The cover is multi-colored pochoir using 50 stencils on paper over board. Illustrations on six panels with oil based inks over flood coats. Pochoir using 50 stencils. Letterpress printed from polymer plates. In a black slipcase with mylar insert that allows the brightly colored cover to be seen. Concept, design, illustrations, pochoir, printing, binding by Thomas Parker Williams. Original text, text layout, printing by Mary Agnes Williams. A thought-provoking work in fine condition Measures 12.25 x 4.25 x .5 inches. Unpaginated [12 pages]. ARTB/041525. Fine.
Item #37884
Price: $1,200.00