African Warrior
Inspired by a desire to sketch a young man of strength, the African warrior came to be. His profile was meant to present someone that was self-assured with solid sense of who he is. Etching
Girl with Braids
To show the artistry of braids was the sole purpose this etching. To show every curve and every twist that made these magnificent rows possible. Etching
Platting Hair
A ritual that was well known by every African American girl in the South. It was for me a time with my mother, just she and I. I did not have to share her with anyone. This time was for me to feel her hand moving quickly through my hair, greasing and combing as she went. Never knowing what design she would give me but that did not matter for whatever she did I know she did it just for me. So special, so very special. Etching
Fishing Lady
My Grandmother loved to fish. She says she went not to catch anything but if she did that would be a bonus. She went for the peace and quiet she experienced just watching the river mosey on by. Etching
Tony Morrison
Trying to capture her strength and brilliance with a etching tool is a very difficult task to attempt. Attempt I did and I was given the opportunity to give a copy to her. I hope she likes it as much as I do. Etching
Gordon Parks
He was an amazing man whose eyes I felt needed to be etched. From those eyes some of the greatest photographs ever have been taken. Those eyes, strong and focus, seeing and with a lens touching things very few can imagine. Etching
Lady Shelling Peas
In the South, it is what you did for family; shell peas, peel peaches, make jelly. What ever it took to provide love in a jar or in a pot. It was hard work but it was what you did. It was what you did! Etching
The Stand
Essay and etching dedicated to Dr. Whitaker’s childhood friend that died from complications of an abortion. This etching debuted at the Manhattan Fine Press Book Fair, New York City, March 2020. EtchingOverview
Dr. Shirley Jackson Whitaker was the art protege of one of American's leading artists, the late Leonard Baskin. She not only challenges herself but will challenge you Using oils and mixed media, she will astound you with her detail and warm your heart with new perspectives.
Book of Etchings
Ashes to Ashes Book of etchings: After the presentation of the funeral service for lynched African Americans, April 29-30, 2016, Dr. Whitaker worked with Michael Kuch of the Double Elephant Press of Northampton, Mass to produce a book of etching to honor the event. The book has been purchased by the Smithsonian’s Library of Congress, Getty Research Institute, Washington university in St. Louis, University of Virginia, Wellesley College, Boston Athenaeum, Smith College, and the list continues to grow.