Illustrator Donald Powell, a passionate artist from Sacramento, California, presents “A Black Thang: The Good, Bad, Ugly, Pride, and Flava of the Black Experience,” a visual body of creative work about the Black experience that transcends the boundaries of traditional art unlike ever before.

Born in 1961, Don’s artistic journey began in kindergarten where scribbles of comic book characters would initiate a journey of evolution to the detailed, intricate, and realistic illustrations of “A Black Thang.”

The turning point of this journey occurred at age 13 while attending an all-white school in Long Beach, California, where he would witness first-hand racial and cultural divides. This enlightening experience of the contrasts and infectious distinctiveness between his race and others sparked intrigue and a transformation in himself and his art. Simple scribbles would grow with him into illustrations documenting what he saw of his Soul Brothers and Sisters.

A father of four, eldest of eight, grandfather of 11, Powell’s personal touches breathe life and add layers of authenticity to every stroke of his art. His deep core values of faith and family are showcased throughout as his actual children, and family are illustrated throughout the book.

Not just a coffee table book or a collection of illustrations; “A Black Thang” is a timely and visual story-tell that, with each turn of the page, unfolds like a road map of authenticity, disclosure, and humor that invites readers to embark on a journey of unprecedented insight reflected through Powell’s lens of genuine passion for his life, his race, and the story of a community that has continuously shaped and reshaped the cultural landscape.

Powell’s art is not just an expression of his talent; it’s a timely journey through time and culture, a bridge that connects individuals from all walks of life to a hopeful and better understanding and appreciation for the unique journey of the Black experience.

When asked about his motivation, Powell’s response is as genuine as his art. He wants readers to do more than just observe, but to relate, reminisce, “hoodicate,” and, above all, laugh. “A Black Thang” promises a visual journey through time, culture, and laughter—a journey that celebrates the extraordinary in the ordinary and invites ALL to witness, appreciate, understand, and connect with the diverse hues and multifaceted dimensions of Black life through Powell’s lens. He heard it, saw it, walked it, talked it, and drew it.

To learn more or get your copy of A Black Thang Book, please visit the website https://ablackthangbook.com