Now on view, March 14, 2025 - July 19, 2025.

Thanks to the efforts of a local art collector, Heather Rose, Philadelphia is now home to more than 20 rarely seen marker drawings by novelist Kurt Vonnegut Jr. Opening March 14th, the originals are on display at Drexel University's Paul Peck Center Gallery at 3142 Market St. To complement the gallery show, Rose has commissioned nine sight specific reproductions at monumental scale (8ft x 12ft) for  the Parkway Central Library's Art & Literature Departments, Philadelphia's public library center for the study of both artists and writers such as Vonnegut.

Kurt Vonnegut’s artwork, like his writing, invites us to reflect on the human condition with acerbic satire and penetrating depth. His visual art, characterized by its simple yet poignant line drawings, critiques societal norms and encourages empathy. This collaborative exhibition with Drexel's Founders Collection offers a fresh perspective on his artistic legacy and serves as a conversation starter on how art can express empathy, bridge divides, and help heal societal trauma.

To advance those conversations, Drexel and the Free Library are collaborating on a series of programs tying into the exhibitions:

• Thursday April 17th 2025 | 6:00 - 7:00 pm. Creative Kickback Tours Kurt Vonnegut Jr. As A Visual Artist. Peck Alumni Center Gallery 3142 Market St. Free Registration.
• Tuesday April 22nd 2025 | 6:00 - 7:30 pm. Writers Room Visits Vonnegut. Peck Alumni Center Gallery 3142 Market St. Free Registration.
• Saturday May 3rd 2025 | 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Art Therapy and Mental Health in Creative Practice. Free Library of Philadelphia's Art & Literature Department. 1901 Vine St. Second Floor. Free Registration.
• Saturday June 21, 2025, 2:00 - 4:30 PM. Legal Workshop for Artists - Presented by Philadelphia Volunteer Lawyers for the Arts. Free Library of Philadelphia's Heim Center for Civic and Cultural Engagement. 1901 Vine St. First Floor. Room 131. Free Registration.