February marked Black History Month, and we were thrilled to showcase books in the Store that highlight how Black artists have shaped the artistic canon, pushed boundaries, and repeatedly demonstrated that Black art is not a monolith. Our goal is to draw attention to these essential works and exhibition catalogs, while uplifting and celebrating the Black artists we feature on our shelves year-round.
Below are a few titles we chose to highlight and review.
“What is it that makes a difference in the development and prospects of a young person? What is it that gets one of the students to medical school while the classmate sitting next to [her] will serve many years in prison? What truly makes a difference in their lives?” —Walter Bodle, 25-year high school teacher in Compton, L.A, founder of Youth in Focus in Seattle, and contributor of Riding Through Compton
The difference lies through the lens of Melodie McDaniel and the interviews conducted by Amelia Fleetwood; Riding Through Compton presents a deeply humanizing portrait of a neighborhood often misrepresented. While Compton is frequently associated with gang violence and hardship, this beautifully curated book reveals a softer, more complex reality—one where the spirit and vibrancy of its youth shine through. Explore the life’s work of Mayisha Akbar, founder and executive director of The Compton Jr. Posse, and most importantly get to know the young members that keep CJP alive. For members of CJP, their mode of transportation is more than a way to get around—it's a trusted companion. Unlike traditional vehicles with four wheels, these vehicles have four legs, a heartbeat, and a bond forged with their riders that runs deep.
—Maddi, Store Sales Associate
Young Blood: Noah Davis, Kahlil Joseph, The Underground Museum
Young Blood was the first large-scale exhibition to explore the dynamic artistic equilibrium between brothers Noah Davis and Kahlil Joseph, two influential contemporary artists who grew up in Seattle. Celebrating the life and legacy of visionary artist Noah Davis (1983–2015), Young Blood places Davis’ work in the context of an ongoing visual dialogue with his elder brother, a prolific artist and filmmaker. Titled in reference to the name Joseph bestowed on his late brother, this show presented the largest body of work by Davis and Joseph ever shown in a museum, spanning the mediums of painting, sculpture, film, and installation. Whether you’re a longtime fan of their respective practices or just learning about Noah Davis and Kahlil Joseph for the first time, this book exemplifies their lasting impact on the art world and the indelible mark they left on the Frye.
—Cece, Store Assistant Manager
Moving to a new city can feel overwhelming, yet if embraced, it can hold the power to transform. Follow young artist Jacob Lawrence in this inspiring story written by Sharifa Rhodes-Pitts featuring vibrant illustrations by Christoper Myers. Encountering a new city, sounds, and faces for the first time, his artistic vision finds magic in the face of change. Read how young Jake uses his creativity to not only navigate his new life but find strength in this sense of self.
—Maddi, Store Sales Associate