Black Light: A Faith Forged Through Praise: The Gospel Blues Block Prints of Kreg Yingst

by Kreg Yingst (Contributor)

In BLACK A Faith Forged Through Praise-the Gospel Blues Block Prints of Kreg Yingst, we are introduced to 29 African American musicians and social activists who drew inspiration from their faith and the power of song-spirituals, blues and gospel. Like a fine melody line, the notes of their lives and the words in their lyrics weave in and out and remind us of the strength in the human spirit. Presented in a format to be read and looked at one per day throughout February-Black History Month-these woodcuts can be returned to again and again, offering the viewer/reader inspiration and hope. The book comes with a suggested Spotify soundtrack as well, making this an audio, visual and educational experience! PRAISE FOR BLACK LIGHT One look at the exquisite portrait of Sojourner Truth tells you much about brother Kreg Yingst. I call him brother because his love of the gospel blues genre makes him family. This collection of woodcuts and stories is not only a rich celebration of black history through the music and the lives of musicians, it's a testament to the power of faith and its triumph over oppression and adversity. What a gift! -Eric Bibb, Gospel Blues Troubadour By shining a light on the lives of these gospel blues artists and activists with his dazzling art, Kreg Yingst shows how faith can bring not only comfort to those living in the most challenging of circumstances, but can inspire hope for both the future and the present. A stunning work. -Gary Burnett, author of The Gospel of the Blues Much of the genius of Kreg's work lies in deep humility with which he approaches his subject. His reverence for each artist and the obstacles he or she faced becomes a thing of grace, a part of the seamlessness where art merges with history and then with his prose. This is artistry at its most profound and its most arresting. BLACK LIGHT is a glorious work of art and musicology. Both the newcomer and the seasoned blues and gospel music aficionado will find the work enlightening and inspiring. I cannot remember a more wonderous collection of art, music, and stories depicting the lives of those who created it that has so deeply moved me. BLACK LIGHT is a triumph! -Bill Mallonee, Singer/Songwriter

82 pages, Paperback

Published May 30, 2022