A Remembrance of Author and Illustrator Ashley Bryan
This past weekend we learned about the passing of Ashley Bryan, the celebrated, award-winning author and illustrator of children’s books. Ashley was a gifted educator, painter, sculptor, collagist, poet and storyteller, among his many abundant talents.
His work placed a wonderful spotlight on the rich cultural traditions found within the African American, Afro-Caribbean, and African communities, which were depicted through the complex narratives, folktales, and spirituals that appeared within the beautiful picture books he wrote and illustrated.
Ashley had a special connection to the Dalton School that spanned many years. He taught art at the First Program, side by side with former Dalton colleague, Sheila Lamb, who supervised the First Program art department for many years. Ashley returned to Little Dalton as an Artist-in-Residence on a couple of occasions to lead community gatherings and do read-alouds of his books. He also conducted art workshops with the children. Ashley had a dynamic and joyful presence, and his visits were always inspiring and memorable occasions for both the children and the adults alike. It was truly an honor to know Ashley, and we are all very fortunate to be able to access the extraordinary literary legacy that he has left behind.
Ashley was a resident of Little Cranberry Island off the coast of Maine for many years. Here is a link to an obituary that appeared in the Bangor Daily News. Many thanks to Tarika for sharing this article.
In addition, this feature article about Ashley came out in the Columbia University alumni magazine this past fall.
Written by First Program Assistant Director Kelvina Butcher