Book Launch - When I Hear Spirituals with Illustrator London Ladd

Award-winning illustrator invites you to celebrate the launch of his beautiful new picture book, . This special event will feature a moderated Q&A with Black Citizens Brigade curator and venue host Cjala Surratt, offering attendees a look into the creative process behind Ladd's moving illustrated exploration of Black history and music.

Gospel and spirituals have long been central to the Black community, serving as a foundation for faith, resilience, and cultural expression. In When I Hear Spirituals, celebrated author Cheryl Willis Hudson pairs the powerful lyrics of twelve beloved spirituals with poignant moments in Black history. Ladd’s evocative illustrations bring these moments to life, featuring Harriet Tubman, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and the Great Migration, alongside seminal songs like "Go Down, Moses," "Sometimes I Feel Like a Motherless Child," and "Get on Board, Little Children."
This keepsake book is a generational treasure, capturing the profound emotional and cultural legacy of Black spirituals—a legacy of healing, strength, and hope.

Metered parking spaces are available near the venue, and a paid lot with attendants is located across the street. The venue is street-level and ADA-compliant.

London Ladd works have been featured in prestigious publications such as HarperCollins, Philomel Books, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and Scientific American. Utilizing a unique mixed-media technique, he brings various subjects to life by combining acrylic paint, cut paper, and tissue paper. Each image is infused with emotion, reflecting the artist's dedication to portraying the essence of life.

Ladd creates picture books and editorial illustrations for print media and community-based murals. He currently serves as an assistant professor at Syracuse University, where he received his BFA and MFA degrees. Ladd received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts from the State University of New York and was nominated for an NAACP Image Award. He was also shortlisted for the World Illustration Awards, and several organizations, including the Society of Illustrators, Communication Arts, American Illustration, and the American Library Association, have recognized his work.

YES! Special book launch bundle! Featuring When I Hear Spirituals by Cheryl Willis Hudson and You So Black by Theresa Tha S.O.N.G.B.I.R.D, beautifully illustrated by London Ladd, this bundle brings together two publications that honor Black history, culture, and resilience.

Pre-order now to have both books signed by London Ladd at the launch and enjoy a 15% discount. PURCHASE HERE: Get the bundle for just $30 (+ NYS sales tax).

Host or Publisher Cjala Surratt