Jerry Pinkney

Jerry Pinkney is the illustrator of some of America's most highly acclaimed children's books. A tireless promoter of multicultural expression, his art fully celebrates the human spirit.

Born the fourth of six children in 1939, Pinkney was raised in a supportive, all-black Philadelphia neighborhood. His first interest in drawing came as a way of imitating his two older brothers. Pinkney's mother and teachers, recognizing both his artistic talent and his inner drive to excel, encouraged Pinkney to focus his attention on his artwork. He received a four-year scholarship to the Philadelphia Museum College of Art, where he majored in graphic design. However, it was the figurative and narrative artists such as N.C. Wyeth and Howard Pyle that made an impression which influenced his work.

Accepting a position as a designer at a greeting card company, Pinkney moved his wife and the family to Boston. He illustrated his first children's book, The Adventure of Spider (1964), while working for a Boston illustration house. Opening his own studio in Boston in 1965, Pinkney supported his family by focusing on advertising and other commercial projects, while, out of sheer love, he completed one or two books a year.

After establishing himself as an illustrator, Pinkney was able to make the commitment to spend more time and effort on books, especially those that address the issues of being an African American and the importance of African-American contributions to society. He also generously shares his talents and experiences by teaching art and mentoring young artists.

Pinkney has received four Caldecott Honor Medals and won the Coretta Scott King Medal four times. He currently lives in Westchester County, New York, with his wife, author Gloria, with whom he has collaborated on two children's books.

Related Exhibitions: Father and Son (2008)