It's Black History Month At PearlShops4U

Our first featured artist is Thomas Blackshear, a graduate of the American Academy of Art in Chicago. While finishing his college education, he was recruited by Hallmark Cards and later became the apprentice of illustrator Mark English.

During the late 80s, Thomas illustrated U.S. postage stamps for the Black Heritage Series. In 1990 the Post Office released his 50th Anniversary movie poster stamps, The Wizard of Oz, Gone With the Wind, Stagecoach and Beau Geste. He also painted twenty-eight illustrations for the U.S. Postal Service book, I have a dream. Seventeen of these paintings were exhibited at the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. and, later, were part of a traveling exhibit.

In 1995 he introduced the Thomas Blackshear's Ebony Visions™ collection. A blend of Art Nouveau with elements of African Culture, as well as elements of cultures from throughout the world. Blackshear received the coveted 1996 "Rising Star Award" and the 1999 "Artist of the Year" award from the National Association of Limited Edition Dealers.

Thomas calls his unique style "Afro-Nouveau" and says, "the collection reflects not only my visions as a black man and the unique visions of black people, it represents visions we all share, regardless of the color of our skin. Emotions like hope, love, tenderness, faith, and serenity know no boundaries."

To honor and celebrate the artistic wealth of African American Culture, Pearl will be offering Thomas Blackshear's Ebony Visions™ treasures from her personal collection. Buy it now Listings will start on Sunday Feb 10th.