We are all filled with a great sense of emptiness as we mourn the loss of Jerry Pinkney.
Jerry Pinkney has been a member of the Society since 1967. Since then, he has participated in countless lectures, workshops, exhibits, and discussions. He was a true master of the craft and was ahead of his time, paving the way for generations of illustrators to follow. He was kind and generous, and was always willing to share his knowledge and talents with others.
He was the recipient of numerous awards from the Society, including the 1993 Hamilton King Award, the 2006 Original Art Lifetime Achievement Award, and in 2011 was inducted into the Hall of Fame. He was truly a legendary illustrator and his legacy will continue. We are proud to announce that we will be establishing an annual Student Scholarship award in his honor–The Jerry Pinkney Award of Excellence. This will be implemented in the 2022 Student Scholarship Competition.
Our heart breaks for the loss of our friend. Our sincere condolences to Gloria Jean Pinkney, Brian Pinkney, Andrea Pinkney, and the entire Pinkney family.
– NPR, “Jerry Pinkey, the beloved, award-winning children’s book illustrator, has died at 81”