HERE

“This book is representative of the shoulders on which we, as Black graphic designers, stand. These are the legacies we are fighting to uphold and the torches we must continue to carry. The journey of the Black designer has not been easy. It isn’t easy. And while we may be left out of history books, this is a reminder that we are here. Always have been. Always will be.”
—Tré Seals, Vocal Type

“Cheryl D. Holmes-Miller commands extraordinary gifts. She has turned time itself on its head, bringing an unseen, when not overlooked, history of design vividly into the present in a dazzling book that anyone who loves design will embrace. She guides us through once-ignored stories and work in such a powerful way that they become not only relevant but instantly unforgettable. We have almost six thousand books in our working library. HERE: Where the Black Designers Are is the most important and ultimately joyful addition we’ve ever made.”
—Brian Collins, COLLINS

“Cheryl D. Holmes-Miller has researched and written brilliantly on the fault lines of how Black designers played key roles in the history of American art and design. This book comes from five decades of education, archival research, and teaching, and lifts the blight of erasure and negation of Black designers’ contributions, into the light of critical recognition and respect. This is an essential read for any and all entities who seek to more fully comprehend the ways in which African Americans have made exemplary contributions to the complexities of the vastly diverse infrastructures crucial to the foundations of America’s character and identity.”
—Leslie King-Hammond, professor emerita and founding director, Center for Race and Culture, Maryland Institute College of Art

"HERE: Where the Black Designers Are forms a compelling narrative that really delves into the historical and contemporary challenges faced by Black designers in the graphic design industry. Cheryl masterfully navigates this journey, advocating for the visibility and recognition of Black designers while also connecting the dots through personal anecdotes, research, interviews, and reflections on the industry's systemic barriers. The book serves as a poignant call to action for the entire design world, making it a must-read for anyone passionate about fostering a more inclusive creative community.”

—Maurice Cherry, creator and host of Revision Path

“In the long struggle for equity and representation in the design professions, Cheryl D. Holmes-Miller’s voice has been loud and clear, not for years but for decades. Hers is a story with important lessons for all of us. We should all be grateful she is here to tell it."

—Michael Bierut, partner, Pentagram

“Cheryl D. Holmes-Miller combines a remarkable history of Black designers with her lived experience. The result is an engrossing, rich, and profoundly relevant book that every designer in any field should read. The narrative is as impressive as the inspiring visuals.”
—Sean Adams, dean of visual art and communication, ArtCenter College of Design

“HERE: Where the Black Designers Are is a compelling narrative by Dr. Cheryl D. Holmes-Miller, seamlessly blending memoir, investigative reporting, and a fervent call to action. Dr. Miller takes readers on a captivating journey as she unravels the untold stories of Black designers, turning her own experiences into a powerful narrative. This book not only unveils the hidden contributions of Black designers but also serves as a poignant plea for their long-overdue recognition in the world of design.”

—Doreen Lorenzo, assistant dean, School of Design and Creative Technologies, University of Texas

“Cheryl D. Holmes-Miller’s book HERE: Where the Black Designers Are provides a valuable perspective of the development of Black graphic design by intertwining her personal journey as a designer with advocacy. Holmes-Miller’s emphasis on highlighting the often-overlooked contributions of Black graphic designers adds depth and a nuanced understanding of design history. HERE: Where the Black Designers Are plays a significant role in providing a more comprehensive and inclusive perspective on the evolution of the design industry. Holmes-Miller’s commitment to sharing and teaching, along with the narratives of perseverance and growth, enhances her substantial contribution to the design realm, adding depth to our understanding of both her personal journey and the broader context of the Black graphic designer.” 

—Eli Kince, associate professor, Fashion Institute of Technology