HHS Alumna Zoe Black becomes Published Illustrator

Herron High School Alum Zoe Black (‘14) calls herself a lifelong doodler. What may have started as scribbles on a page has evolved into impressive illustrations. Impressive enough to be published in a 2021 children’s book called “Nia’s Questions.”

As a Herron High School student, Black took several art classes. She remembers art teacher, Mr. Renwick, pushing her to be bolder with projects, to dig deeper with whatever medium was used for her art. She also credits her 2nd grade teacher at IPS 70, Mrs. Wheatley, for introducing her to 100 percent Black-centered media curriculum. 

“We read the ‘Addy’ American Girl books, watched “Reading Rainbow” with Levar Burton, learned about Phyllis Wheatley, and sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing” almost every day. There's nothing else I’ve experienced that can compare to her commitment,” Black says. Likewise, she explains, “Renwick highlighted lesser known and smaller contemporary artists over the usual, homogeneous art history canon.”

The story of Black’s involvement with “Nia’s Questions” began in 2018 when she was introduced to the author, Adelia Davis, through a mutual connection from their shared alma mater, University of Michigan. Davis was working on promotional media for her nonprofit, Story Shifters, which curates reading curriculum and programming that center around kids of color, and wanted to create her own children’s book. She pitched her idea to Black who jumped at the chance to join her as the illustrator. 

“Working on the book was an experience unlike any other client relationship I’ve had,” Black says. “We worked collaboratively throughout the entire process and I grew a ton as a storyteller and technical artist.”

The book was first sold at book fairs in Detroit and eventually sold out online. The book is available on Amazon and includes only five-star reviews. One reviewer said, “This is one of the most beautiful books I have ever seen and is super timely for my family. My daughter recently had the same question as Nia, so it was a particular joy to find this magnificent answer. Well done, and thank you, to the author and illustrator!” Black describes the response to the book as heartwarming and exciting. People from all areas of her life congratulated her online and in person.

Although her career trajectory has become more creative-adjacent as a social media strategist in New York City, Black says being an illustrator will always be an important part of who she is.“Working on the book helped me tap back into my love of illustration and design. I am only beginning my journey as a published artist.”