I don’t know about you, but I love a nice coffee table book. Even though my current apartment is too small for me to even think about putting the tiniest coffee table in it, I still collect nice hard cover books for the day when I can actually move into a reasonably sized apartment where I can buy “real” furniture and fully decorate my humble abode, but I digress.

The photo-essay styled book was actually featured in this month’s Essence and showcases celebrity and everyday women with their fathers. Because I’m a sucker for celebrities and the art of photography, this book is a must-have!

Earlier this year, I came across a similar book entitled, “Pop: A Celebration of Black Fatherhood,” by Carol Ross that features a stunning collection of black & white photographs of African-American men with their children. I think both books are definitely worth purchasing because they’re artistically beautiful and celebrate black fatherhood, which far too often gets a bad rap.

So go out and get these books because you can add sophistication and style to your space while supporting black authors and photographers. You know we BGs love dual-purpose purchases!

Available at www.amazon.com for $27.95 (it goes on sale Oct. 30)

Available at www.amazon.com for only $16.95 (this is steal because it was originally $29.95)

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I recently had the pleasure of visiting ColaLex, a new art gallery located in the heart of Harlem. Actually, a friend of mine is the owner. I always knew he was talented, but when I saw some of his magnificent pieces on display at his gallery, I was totally blown away. His rich and vibrant paintings beautifully exemplify spirituality, new beginnings and freedom.

Not only does he exhibit his own paintings at ColaLex, but he also displays the artwork of other African-American, Caribbean and Hispanic artists. If you’re ever in the New York City area, you should definitely stop by ColaLex, (1695 Lexington between 106th and 107th) and check out some exceptional paintings, sculptures and drawings. In fact, they’re hosting a reception to announce the launch of Brazilian artist, Ernani Silva’s exhibit at the gallery on October 27, 2007.

Even if you’re not in NYC, there are plenty of African-African galleries throughout the country that might be closer to your city. I strongly believe that every BG should invest in a one-of-a-kind painting that will appreciate with time. So, instead of dropping hundreds of dollars on a handbag or a pair of shoes, put that money toward something that won’t be a fashion faux pas next year; invest in great artwork because it never goes out-of-style!

Here are some of the paintings and sculptures currently on display at ColaLex:

For more information, please visit: www.colalexgallery.com

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