Day 2 and 3 of Poetry Collection

Poetry Collection Progress: Researching African American Vernacular English  (AVE)

Over the past two days, I have been researching language in the black community. I find it at its purest in the music. It is a source of inspiration in my poetry.  In listening to soul/r&b, and the blues, I can hear the history of African American English in the United States. Some disregard it as poor English or "Ebonics", but I find it as rich and beautiful as those who first recognized its value and importance. Enjoy your weekend. I'll talk to you soon. Peace~

The Art of Poetry

This is a piece [pictured above] titled, The Poet by Mr. John Holyfield. John Holyfield was born and raised in Clarksburg, West Virginia. He has studied graphic design at both Howard University and The University of the District of Columbia. His major influences in art are Ernie Barnes and Norman Rockwell (Many of you would remember Ernie Barnes' artwork [pictured left] featured on the 70s television show, Good Times).





Holyfield's art reflects a similar nostalgia of African American culture and southern roots. It has a warm, down-home feel to it. Holyfield's work was the first piece of art I'd ever purchased. I purchased it at an art festival here in DC back in 1999. Mr. Holyfield was there and he had some of his original work on display. The Poet was one of them. Natrually, I wanted the original, but I noticed he was selling the print at a less expensive price (much less). So, I decided to buy the print [unframed] for $150.00. I have acquired other pieces from Mr. Holyfield since, but The Poet remains my favorite. Do you have a favorite piece of artwork?

See more of Mr. Holyfield work by visiting: http://www.johnholyfield.com/