Behind the Scenes of "You Gotta Meet Mr. Pierce!": A Conversation with Jennifer Mack-Watkins & Jeffrey Wolf

Jennifer Mack-Watkins. Photo Elizabeth Brooks.
In conjunction with the exhibition You Gotta Meet Mr. Pierce!, artist Jennifer Mack-Watkins is joined by film editor Jeffrey Wolf to explore the life and legacy of Elijah Pierce. They discuss how they met, the artistic process behind the illustrations, Wolf’s archive and collection of works by Pierce, and how both are introducing Pierce’s art to future generations.
The program includes a Q&A, reception, and book signing. Books will be available on site from Source of Knowledge Bookstore.
The exhibition celebrates the new children's book You Gotta Meet Mr. Pierce! The Storied Life of Folk Artist Elijah Pierce (Kokila, 2023; ages 4-8), written by Chiquita Mullins Lee and Carmella Van Vleet and illustrated by Jennifer Mack-Watkins, whose artistry brings to life the fascinating story of Elijah Pierce.
Plus: Read an interview with Jennifer Mack-Watkins in Rutgers Today!
This free program is funded by the PNC Grow Up Great Foundation.
Free visitor parking is available by pre-registration at go.rutgers.edu/zamparking0511. Registration allows you to park in lot numbers 11, 16, 26, and 30. Until this process is completed, your vehicle is not registered and you may receive a citation. Special event parking and special event permits are only for visitors to the university and does not include free metered parking. Faculty, staff, and students must park only in lots where they are authorized to park. Please note, this is a unique link for this event and not valid for any other dates or events.