CRANDALL PUBLIC LIBRARY
Center for Folklife, History & Cultural Programs

presents

LET IT SHINE

an exhibition of paintings by

STEPHEN ALCORN.

Celebrating the lives of the following black women freedom fighters:
Sojourner Truth, Biddy Mason, Harriet Tubman, Ida B. Wells Barnett, Mary Mcleod Bethune, Ella Josephine Baker,
Dorothey Irene Height, Rosa Parks, Fannie Lou Hamer, and Shirley Chisholm.

FEBRUARY 1 through June 30, 2001

The exhibition coincided with the publication of a Coretta Scott King Honor Book for young readers entitled LET IT SHINE: Stories of Black Women Freedom Fighters, for which Alcorn's paintings were originally conceived. In the words of Kirkus Reviews: "...Alcorn's paintings, oil on canvas, are as magnificent as his figures and add much to this handsome volume. Vibrant colors, rhythmic lines, and collage like compositions are allegorical in design and convey the essence of each woman and her work. A truly inspiring collection for personal as well as institutional libraries...". Written by Andrea Davis Pinkney, this award-winning volume celebrates the heroic manner in which ten freedom fighters "let their lights shine on the darkness of discrimination". In the words of School Library Journal: "Engaging text and glorious art are combined in this collection of sketches celebrating the contributions of 10 women who moved forward the cause of civil rights in America. Following a preface that describes her own family roots in the civil rights movement and their influence on her, Pinkney presents her heroines chronologically, from Sojourner Truth to Shirley Chisholm, in verbal portraits that capture the subjects' spirit and personalities amid biographical highlights. Blending straightforward narrative with a lively storytelling style, the author balances the hardships and racial injustice that these women faced against their faith, strength of character, and determination."

Located at 251 Glen Street in the heart of historic Glens Falls, New York.

A formal reception took place on Wednesday, March 7, at 6:00 pm.,
and featured a musical performance by Barry Hyman, guitarist extraordinaire.

This event was free, and was open to the general public.

For more Crandall Library-related information call (518) 792-6508 x 103

Hours: Monday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Tuesday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Wednesday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00;
Friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM; Saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sunday 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM