Alfreda's World

by Mary Whyte

Artist Mary Whyte moved with her husband to a small South Carolina barrier island ten years ago, and quite by accident met a group of senior citizens who were making quilts in a small abandoned church. Longtime residents of Johns Island and descendants of slaves, this extraordinary group of African American women welcomed Whyte to their community and changed her life and paintings in astonishing and unexpected ways. Chronicled in dialogue and images are the Gullah way of life and the evolution of an incredible friendship between the artist and Alfreda LaBoard, who became the subject of many of Whyte's paintings. Whyte uses the watercolor medium to produce rich dark tones and textures. Her combination of tightly controlled brush strokes and loose broad sweeps of washes, coupled with contrasts of light and dark, produce a level of intensity not usually associated with watercolor.

Genres: Nonfiction, Adult, Art

96 pages, Paperback

First published April 1, 2003

About the author

Mary Whyte is an American watercolor artist, a traditionalist preferring a representational style, and the author of seven published books, who has earned awards for her large-scale watercolors.

Reviews

[HankinsonHolmes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mary White is one of the most accomplished watercolor painters alive today. If you get the chance, watch some of her videos demonstrating her techniques - truly talented. This book not only provides a collection of watercolor masterpieces to enjoy, but also tells the fascinating tale of her journey to an African-Ammericam community in South Carolina and her relationship with Alfreda LaBoard and her friends on Johns Island. By the way, when I say masterpieces in watercolor - you will find it hard to believe the detail and skill required to create these portraits. Trust me.

[Sue Pagano · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful story of the friendship of two women from different cultures and how love overcomes the forces that threaten to divide them. A concise but powerful tribute to friendship!

[Lakesha Heath]

great