SKiNFoLK: An American Show

SKiNFoLK is a quilted ritual of liberation by Jillian Walker, exploring her identity, heritage, and legacy as a Black woman in America. It combines blues, jazz, neosoul, pop, rock, and spiritual Black legacies, asking what is in the archive, who we meet, and what the root is.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 104 pages
Publication date: 11 January 2024
Publisher: 53rd State Press

SKiNFoLK: An American Show by Jillian Walker is a deeply personal and evocative quilted ritual of liberation, offering a profound testament to the playwright-performer's identity, heritage, and legacy as a Black woman in contemporary America. This epic tapestry weaves together a rich tapestry of influences, including blues, jazz, neosoul, pop, rock, and spiritual Black legacies, creating a harmonious and captivating fusion of sounds and styles. As viewers delve into the archive, they are invited to encounter a diverse range of characters and narratives, each with their own unique stories and experiences. At the heart of this exploration lies a profound inquiry into the roots of identity, culture, and society. What lies hidden in the depths of the archive? Who are the individuals who have shaped this history, and what impact have they had on the world around us? Moreover, the show delves into the broader themes of race, gender, and power, challenging viewers to confront their own biases and assumptions and to consider the complex and multifaceted nature of these issues in modern society.

The visual aesthetic of SKiNFoLK is equally stunning, with Walker's intricate quilts and vibrant fabrics creating a visually arresting stage that serves as a powerful backdrop for the performances. The use of color, particularly in the lighting design, plays a crucial role in setting the mood and tone of the show, creating a sense of awe and wonder as the audience witnesses the collision of different musical and cultural traditions.

In conclusion, SKiNFoLK: An American Show by Jillian Walker is a groundbreaking and transformative work that offers a profound exploration of identity, heritage, and legacy as a Black woman in contemporary America. Through its rich tapestry of music, storytelling, and visual aesthetics, the show challenges viewers to confront their own biases and assumptions and to consider the complex and multifaceted nature of these issues in modern society. It is a testament to the power of art to inspire, educate, and transform, and a must-see for anyone seeking to understand the rich and diverse tapestry of American culture.

Weight: 192g
Dimension: 146 x 223 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781732545274