As part of its promotion of often-overlooked major modern American artists, this Smithsonian Institution publication features essays by leading scholars on African American art and Johnson (1901-1970). Drawn from the collection of the James E. Lewis Museum of Art, Morgan State U. in Baltimore, the selected paintings illustrate the influences on, and evolution of, his vernacular style reflecting positive images of black rural and urban life. Published in association with the U. of Washington Press. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)