LONDON LADD has featured his work in publications such as HarperCollins, Philomel Books, the New York Times, the Washington Post, and Scientific American. His unique mixed-media technique, which combines acrylic paint, cut paper, and tissue paper, brings subjects to life in a thought-provoking approach. He creates picture books and editorial illustrations for print media, as well as community-based murals. His work has been recognized by several organizations, including the Society of Illustrators, Communication Arts, American Illustration, and the American Library Association, and he has been shortlisted for the World Illustration Awards. He has also received an honorary Doctor of Fine Arts from the State University of New York and was nominated for an NAACP Image Award. Currently, he serves as an Assistant Teaching Professor at Syracuse University, where he received his BFA and MFA degrees in illustration.

His vision is to establish a visual arts community center in Syracuse, NY, where lower-income families can engage in artistic activities in a fun and creative environment. When I Hear Spirtuals written by Cheryl Willis Hudston is his latest book.

WHEN I HEAR SPIRTUALS 

This lyrical picture book is a joyous, poetic, celebration of Black children and a reminder of the Universe’s unconditional love in stunning verse and captivating collage. Perfect for fans of Sulwe!
When the Universe decides to create a child, she draws from the earth—rich, dark, and full of everything that gives life, including eyes like black star sapphires and full lips to speak the truth. With help from the Sun and the Moon, they create a child of the Universe: beautiful, powerful, and boundless with the brilliance of Black Gold.
Laura Obuobi’s empowering, whimsical text and London Ladd’s lustrous, captivating illustrations will inspire children to love themselves exactly as they are.