The National Center for Children’s Illustrated Literature (NCCIL) will host ON AIR, a live, ticketed audience event featuring acclaimed illustrator duo Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey and children’s literature advocate Charnaie Gordon. The special event takes place on February 6th at 6:30PM at NCCIL and coincides with the opening weekend of a new exhibition showcasing original artwork by The Pumphreys.
ON AIR invites attendees to experience an intimate, behind-the-scenes conversation with the artists as part of a live radio recording, produced by the hardworking staff at KACU. Guests will be part of the studio audience, hearing directly from the creators about their collaborative process, storytelling, and the ideas behind their books and artwork currently on view at NCCIL. A broadcast of the conversation will air the following week on KACU, extending the reach of the event beyond the museum walls. Additionally, guests can enjoy live jazz music before and after the show and participate in book signings. VIP guests will enjoy drinks and delicious bites.
Brothers Jarrett and Jerome Pumphrey are the award-winning creators of celebrated picture books including There Was a Party for Langston, The Old Truck, and Because of You, John Lewis. Known for their bold, expressive illustrations and stories rooted in history, family, and social impact, The Pumphreys collaborate closely on every project, merging illustration, design, and narrative to create powerful visual storytelling experiences for young readers.
Joining them is Charnaie Gordon, founder of Here Wee Read and a nationally recognized children’s book author, reviewer, and literacy advocate. Gordon has built a vibrant online community of more than 350,000 followers and is widely known for championing diverse books and joyful reading experiences for children and families.
“ON AIR gives our community a unique opportunity to experience an artist visit in a completely different way,” said Kayla Young, Executive Director. “Guests are not just listening, they’re part of the conversation, celebrating the opening of an exhibition and the creative voices behind it.”
Saturday, February 7th, following the ON AIR event, families and community members are invited to celebrate the exhibit opening with the NCCIL’s free Family Fun Saturday from 10AM to 12PM. 50 free books will be given at the door and Canes kid’s combo coupons are first come first serve upon entry. Guests can enjoy book signings at 10:30AM, the ACU Swing Cats at 11:00AM and story time at 11:30AM.
