Celebrate Jerry Pinkney!

This fall, the Katonah Museum of Art will honor the legacy of Jerry Pinkney by presenting the traveling exhibition Tenacity & Resilience: The Art of Jerry Pinkney, on view from October 9, 2022 - January 22, 2023. Pinkney was one of the first illustrators to consistently include children of color in his more than 100 books, a progressive outlook that resonates with the Museum’s mission to champion greater equality and inclusion through arts and culture. The exhibition, organized by the Montclair Art Museum, reveals the artist’s humanity and activism through masterful watercolors by one of the most accomplished artists working in this medium. Pinkney’s voice and philosophical perspective are profoundly reflected in Tenacity and Resilience, as he was deeply involved in the curation and design process before his passing. Jerry’s significant legacy will be further illuminated through a companion exhibition presented in the Spot Gallery and Learning Center which explores Pinkney’s role as an influential mentor for younger generations of artists of color.

Aside from his artistic endeavors, Pinkney was a mobilizing force within the community. For more than 25 years Jerry was active in the life of the KMA. He was an innovative voice on the Exhibition Committee, an original founder of the Learning Center and an ally who always championed picture book creators as worthy of artistic merit. Jerry opened many doors for the KMA and along with his wife, Gloria, participated in Family Days, special events, openings, and public programs.

Tenacity & Resilience: The Art of Jerry Pinkney is anticipated to be a popular exhibition, bringing in diverse audiences including the school and community groups the Museum continues to engage. The KMA has consistently sought opportunities to honor the diversity and respect for all colors and races that Jerry so nobly visualized across his lifetime of work and philanthropy.

Please join us to celebrate the ideals that Jerry so meaningfully embodied through your support for this timely initiative.