Wilmer Jennings

The Museum of Art, Rhode Island School of Design, is honored to present to the community this comprehensive exhibition of the graphic art of Wilmer Jennings. Pressing On: The Graphic Art of Wilmer Jennings is the first publication to examine a large body of work of Wilmer Jennings (American, 1910-90), who studied under Hale Woodruff while earning a degree from Morehouse College, Atlanta. Jennings then came to Rhode Island School of Design for further training as a jewelry designer, painter, and printmaker. He stayed in Rhode Island and designed jewelry for Imperial Pearl Company while continuing to work on his art. Jennings achieved artistic recognition primarily for his intimate wood engravings. He represents the third generation of African American artists active in the state.
"This is the first comprehensive presentation of the artist's prints. It provides insight into the ethos and experience of African Americans who, like Jennings, had migrated from the South to the North in search of greater freedom and opportunity. His art expands the repertoire of images depicting participation of African American people in the American scene." -- Claude L. Ellliot.