Welcome to the world of Jerry Pinkney.
Welcome to the world of Jerry Pinkney.
Photograph by Jacob Blickenstaff
“A sense of community has always been important to me, and I want that to be reflected in my art. When I speak of community, I am not only talking about the immediate world around me, but also legacy. I am always searching for projects that connect with my culture and the experience of being Black in America.”
Over a career spanning 69 years, Jerry Pinkney became one of the most revered and respected children's book illustrators in America, if not the world. His evocative drawings and paintings won him international acclaim and brought more than 100 children's books to life.
As one of America’s pre-eminent Black illustrators, many of Jerry’s books prominently featured Black characters, Black history and culture, with the underlying goal of dignifying African-American images.
His books have been translated into sixteen languages and published in fourteen countries, and he has been the recipient of the Randolph Caldecott Medal, five Caldecott Honors, five New York Times “Best Illustrated Books", five Coretta Scott King Awards, and four Coretta Scott King Honor Awards.
On October 20, 2021, Jerry Pinkney passed peacefully at the age of 81.
Please join us as we introduce you to his life and his work.