Darlene R. Taylor

Darlene R. Taylor is a Lecturer in the Department of English at Howard University’s College of Arts & Sciences, where she serves as a Master Instructor and co-faculty advisor to the Sterling A. Brown English Society. Her interdisciplinary work bridges creative writing, visual art, and public history.

Education:

• BA, American University
• MFA, Stonecoast, University of Southern Maine

Her research and creative interests center on reclaiming silenced narratives in Black life through fiction and mixed media collage. She explores historical archives, cultural memory, and social justice, emphasizing literary citizenship and community engagement. Her work is deeply rooted in African American literary traditions and interdisciplinary art practices.

The recent publications and creative works reflect a strong thematic focus on Black identity, intergenerational memory, and narrative reclamation. Her contributions span literary journals, anthologies, and visual art exhibitions, demonstrating a consistent engagement with cultural heritage and artistic innovation.

Scientific and Creative Awards:

• Creative Fellowship, American Antiquarian Society
• Creative Fellowship, D.C. Commission on Arts & Humanities
• Creative Fellowship, Virginia Center for Creative Arts
• Creative Fellowship, Community of Writers
• Creative Fellowship, Kweli
• Creative Fellowship, Callaloo
• Creative Fellowship, Kimbilio
• Aminah Robinson Writer in Residence, Columbus Museum of Art

Taylor actively mentors students through the Sterling A. Brown English Society and contributes to writing initiatives such as the Writing for Social Justice Initiative at Stonecoast. She has no formal grants listed, but her fellowships and residencies support her creative and scholarly work. She promotes literary citizenship through community organizations and libraries, extending her impact beyond the university.

Her visual and literary works have been featured in solo exhibitions at the Columbus Museum of Art (2022) and Academy Art Museum (2024), establishing her presence in both academic and public arts spaces.