Shaper of God is a compelling exploration of the life and legacy of Octavia E. Butler, reimagined through the visionary lens of American Artist.

Edited by Zainab Aliyu, this book features American Artist's solo exhibition at Pioneer Works, bridging Butler’s enduring influence on literature and culture with contemporary artistic practices. American Artist’s multidisciplinary approach delves into three pivotal themes of Butler's oeuvre: the role of Pasadena and Los Angeles, with their distinct academic, scientific, and natural landscapes, in shaping her imaginative  storytelling; the profound impact of her maternal family's migration, evidenced in her writing by  themes of aspiration, labor, and displacement; and her critical engagement with space exploration, interrogating its implications for Black and Indigenous communities. 

Featuring American Artist’s new and existing works—encompassing video, installation, sculpture, and drawing—alongside essays, exhibition documentation, and a rich compilation of diverse media, including sketches, digital communications, and archival materials. Contributions from notable voices like Taylor Renee Aldridge, Lou Cornum, Tananarive Due, Alexis Pauline Gumbs, Ayana A. Jamieson, and Fred Moten further enrich the narrative, expanding on the dialogues initiated by American Artist.

Richly illustrated, Shaper of God not only honors Butler’s expansive influence but also provides a critical lens through which to view the themes of migration, place, and cosmic imagination that permeate her work. American Artist’s interpretation invites readers to reconsider history, technology, and identity, making this volume an essential resource for understanding both Butler’s groundbreaking narratives and the contemporary issues they continue to shape.

PRE-ORDER now to get your copy. Shipments will go out March.