Kadir Nelson Returns to Atlantic City to Inspire Students at Atlantic City High School

ATLANTIC CITY — Award-winning artist and author Kadir Nelson returned home to Atlantic City to inspire students with a powerful message about creativity, perseverance, and the importance of reading, while also sharing insights from his newly released book on basketball.

Principal Constance Days-Chapman said she had been trying to get Nelson to speak to students here for the past three years. “We’re excited that our students and our staff have an opportunity to have this experience,” Days-Chapman said. “Kadir Nelson is nationally known for covers of the New Yorker magazine, album covers for Michael Jackson and Drake. He has had several books that are award winning as well.”

Nelson, an Atlantic City native who attended Uptown School Complex, was welcomed by students and staff at Atlantic City High School as a hometown success story whose work has reached national audiences. During his visit on Friday, February 6, 2026, he reflected on his early years growing up in the city and the role his family and community played in nurturing his artistic talents. “I’m very happy to be here in Atlantic City,” Nelson told students. “Both of my parents are from Atlantic City, and I lived here during the early part of my life. I’m just really glad to be back.”

Nelson said that he began drawing at the age of three and never stopped. Through stories and visuals from his childhood artwork, he emphasized that consistent practice — even when it doesn’t feel intentional — is key to growth. “I was practicing every day even though I didn’t realize it,” he said. “That practice helped me get better over time.”

Beyond art, Nelson spoke candidly about his academic journey, particularly learning how to write. He explained how a pivotal moment in high school, when a teacher challenged him to improve his writing skills, shaped his future as an author.

“If you want to be a writer, you have to be a reader,” Nelson told students. “There’s no way around that.” Nelson discussed the extensive research and creative process behind his books, including We Are the Ship and his newly released book Basketball: The Story of the All-American Game, which explores the history and evolution of the game. He shared that the basketball project includes nearly 60 paintings and took almost 10 years to complete.

Nelson shared that in his early years he mimicked the style of painter Ernie Barnes, whose work is widely known and easily distinguishable because of his unique style of painting elongated figures to symbolize movement. “One of the ways we learn is by imitation,” Nelson said.

Barnes’ work was featured on the 1970s Norman Lear sitcom Good Times. The eldest son character James Evans Jr., better known as J.J. played by comedian Jimmy Walker, was an aspiring painter. Barnes’ work was featured whenever J.J. was depicted as working on a painting. Nelson said that once he had mastered Barnes’ style, he had to learn new styles.

Students asked thoughtful questions about staying focused on long-term projects, and Nelson encouraged them to pursue subjects they are genuinely curious about.

“You have to find something you really love,” he said. “Curiosity will hold your attention — and if it holds your attention, it will hold the attention of others.”

During the visit, Nelson also previewed his next project, a book focused on the history of American music with an emphasis on African American contributions and announced the creation of the Kadir Nelson Institute for Young and Emerging Artists. The institute, connected to a new gallery he opened with his wife and business partner, will offer instruction in oil painting and the business of art through an all-expenses-paid program.

The event concluded with an exciting announcement for students: 100 signed copies of Nelson’s basketball book were distributed, giving many students a lasting reminder of the day’s message.

Nelson thanked the school community for the warm welcome and encouraged students to take their interests seriously.

“Thank you for having me,” he said. “I hope you enjoyed it.”

“Kadir Nelson’s visit showed our students that excellence is built through curiosity, reading and persistence,” said Dr. La'Quetta S. Small. “When our students see someone who once sat in their seats achieve at the highest level, it reinforces that their dreams are attainable.”

To see a gallery from the event, click the link: https://photos.app.goo.gl/KRyUFzbJZnSVkgRW7

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