In Memoriam: David C. Driskell

In Memoriam: David C. Driskell June 7, 1931–April 1, 2020

“The artist has the dual responsibility of creating a new vision of the world by inventing and expanding upon what we see and by creating beauty as a desirable quality of life. The artist should be able to make us aware of the good life by asking for social justice for all.” –David C. Driskell, in an interview with Pat Davidson Reef (David C. Driskell: Artist, Educator, Author)

Nationally known and award-winning, David C. Driskell was an artist, author, and educator who spent his summers in Maine for 57 years. David was one of the primary people responsible for bringing African-American art into the American mainstream culture through his own artwork, writing, and teaching, and by curating exhibits by artists of color. It has been a privilege to publish David C. Driskell: Artist, Educator, Author by Pat Davidson Reef and to play a small part in continuing his artistic legacy.

Thank you to Thelma Driskell, the Driskell family, and the David C. Driskell Center for giving us the opportunity to feature David’s art. It is an honor to preserve and share his work with younger generations.

Bernard Langlais Revisited is available on page 21. Dahlov Ipcar / Artist is available on page 21. David C. Driskell: Top Se

Artist, Educator, Author

Maine Art Series for Young Readers Pat Davidson Reef of Falmouth, Maine

This book is a visual biography for young readers between the ages of 8 and 12 and all adults who are looking for an introduction to an important Maine artist, David C. Driskell, who made Maine his summer home for 57 years. His unique artistic style and books have made major contributions to mainstream culture in America and he is represented in museums across the nation. Ages 4–Adult

Paperback, 12" x 9", 36 pages with color illustrations and photographs ISBN 978-1-63381-212-3 $22.95

Pat Davidson Reef is a graduate of Emerson College. She received her master’s degree at USM and taught high school in Portland. She has reviewed art and books for over 25 years in Maine newspapers. Pat teaches Classic Films at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (OLLI). She has written two other books: Dahlov Ipcar / Artist and Bernard Langlais Revisited.