Althea Jones, a multidisciplinary artist from Akron, Ohio, is continuing to use art to inform education with her thought-provoking “Skin Color” project, now featured in national educational textbooks recently released by Gibbs Smith Education. Jones’ project is helping to foster critical conversations about race and identity in classrooms across the United States.

The project, which aims to combat implicit bias and promote diversity awareness, is showcased in La Gente: Themes in Latino Studies and Mosaic: Themes in Asian American Studies, textbooks that will be used by students nationwide. What makes the project especially unique is that the images used in the books were taken by local Akron photographers Robert Greer Sr. and Christiana Cacciato, highlighting Jones’ continued emphasis on creating community in real time. 

The “Skin Color” project invites individuals to explore and reflect on the significance of skin color in shaping personal identity and societal perceptions. Through this work, Jones seeks to challenge stereotypes, foster understanding, and create space for diverse voices in the classrooms and beyond. The project has garnered praise for its thoughtful approach to addressing implicit bias, a topic often left underexplored in traditional curricula.

“Being able to bring local voices into national educational spaces is a powerful way to amplify marginalized perspectives and celebrate diversity,” said Jones. “This project is a labor of love, grounded in my community, and it’s an honor to see it resonate with educators and students across the country.”

The books are part of Gibbs Smith Education’s Diversity Studies series, a collection of resources aimed at encouraging inclusive education. To learn more about Jones’ “Skin Color” project and its role in shaping the future of education, visit www.altheajonesart.com.

For press inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Althea Jones
Email: altheajonesart@gmail.com