Princeton University Plans Toni Morrison Tribute In Series Of Events

PRINCETON UNIVERSITY, NJ – Princeton University will host a months-long tribute to Toni Morrison more than three years after her death. The Noble laureate taught at the University for 17 years.

The tribute will range from music performed by Grammy-winning vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant, a lecture series and a three-day symposium by author Edwidge Danticat among other events.

The tribute will center on “Toni Morrison: Sites of Memory,” an exhibition drawn from her archives that will explore Morrison’s creative process through manuscripts, correspondences, photographs, maps she drew while working on Beloved,” and a rare draft of her novel “Song of Solomon,” and other unfinished projects.

The exhibit begins Feb 22 to June 4, at Princeton University Library’s Milberg Gallery and is curated by Autumn Womack, assistant professor of English and African American Studies,

“It is difficult to overstate the importance of Toni Morrison’s writing to American literature, art, and life. This exhibition draws us toward the unexplored corners of her writing process and unknown aspects of her creative investments that only live in this archive,” Womack said.

The Toni Morrison Papers archive includes 200 linear feet of research materials, manuscript drafts, correspondence, photographs, and other ephemera that the University acquired in 2014. “In imagining this initiative—from exhibition to symposium to partner projects—I wanted to show the importance of the archive to understanding Morrison’s work and practice. But I also wanted to show how this archive in particular is a site that opens up new lines of inquiry and inspires new kinds of collaboration,” Womack said.

Meanwhile, the McCarter Theatre has commissioned artists Daniel Alexander Jones and Mame Diarra Samantha Speis to spend time with the Morrison archive and create original works reflecting on her influence.

Their first public offerings will be held at the McCarter on March 24 and 25.

“This is an unprecedented opportunity to explore the legacy of Toni Morrison’s work and the remarkable impression she left on Princeton University,” said Anne Jarvis, the Robert H. Taylor 1930 University Librarian.

Morrison won the Nobel Prize for literature in 1993. She was also known for her novels like “Sula,” “The Bluest Eyes,” and “Jazz.” She died in 2019 at age 88.

Have a correction or news tip? Email sarah.salvadore@patch.com