Details about MLK Day 2017, Google Doodle and artist Keith Mallett

Google is celebrating Martin Luther King, Jr Day with a special doodle and a homepage promotion of a curated collection of Civil Rights photography from the High Museum of Art in Atlanta.

Today’s, January 16, 2017, doodle was illustrated by African American artist Keith Mallett, who’s created various prominent works including the official limited edition print commemorating the 50th anniversary of Jackie Robinson’s historic breakthrough into major league baseball and the cover of Chicken Soup for The African American Soul. Both Franklin Mint and Lenox Collections have created collectibles of Mallett’s most popular works.

According to his bio, he first learned oil painting under the tutelage of Sidney Dickenson, a student of William Merritt Chase; later he found working with acrylic paint better suited his nature. In recent years, he has also worked as a ceramic artist and printmaker.

He said, “I have always been intrigued by the art of etching, but I felt intimidated by the mechanical process, and the use of the chemicals that it involved. Once I overcame my initial trepidations I found etching to be the ideal way to graphically express my ideas. I love working on the cold metal plate, using grounds and acids to fashion a warm image. It is a real thrill to lift the paper from the inked plate and see the completed impression.

Creating art has always been a joyful experience in my life, and I feel blessed to be able to share that joy with others.”

Formally trained at Art Students League and Hunter College in New York City, his artwork can be found in many private and corporate collections throughout the world.

A partial list of Mallett’s clients includes Random House, Harper Collins, Houghton Mifflin, Lenox Collections, Coats and Clarks, Franklin Mint, Hallmark Cards, New York Graphic Society, Springs Industries, United Treasures, Icon Shoes, Pure Country Weavers, Ne’Qwa Art, Sunsout Puzzles, and Canadian Art Prints.