Burton Morris to receive honorary degree and speak at Commencement
Chatham University has announced that Burton Morris will be the honorary degree recipient and keynote speaker for Chatham’s 2024 Spring Commencement on Sunday, April 28, 2024.
Morris, an internationally renowned Pop Artist, is celebrated for his bold and dynamic portrayals of American icons and contemporary cultural objects.
Born in Pittsburgh, Morris cultivated his passion for art at Carnegie Mellon University, earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. Following his graduation, he embarked on a successful career as an art director in advertising before founding Burton Morris Studios in 1990, dedicated to the creation of original fine art.
Morris's artistic journey reached new heights when his artworks were featured in all ten seasons on the set of the beloved NBC television sitcom "Friends”, captivating audiences worldwide with their vibrant presence in the iconic Central Perk Coffee Shop.
With a global reach, Morris has showcased his original paintings in galleries and museums worldwide, and has contributed signature artworks to esteemed events such as The Summer Olympic Games, The Academy Awards, The Montreux Jazz Festival, The MLB All-Star Game, the FIFA World Cup Soccer, and the USGA U.S Open.
Morris's artistic influence transcends the canvas, with commissioned works adorning prestigious institutions including The White House, The United Nations, Coca-Cola Corporation, Ford Motors, Sony, Chanel Corporation, Rolex, Warner Brothers, and others. His artwork is also prominently featured in the collections of esteemed institutions like The Albright-Knox Museum, The Jimmy Carter Center, The Elysée Museum, The United Nations, The World of Coca-Cola Museum, and The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences.
Prominent collectors include luminaries like Brad Pitt, Oprah Winfrey, Ralph Lauren, Stan Lee, and President Barack Obama.
Furthermore, Morris's philanthropic endeavors have made a profound difference, with his artwork contributing to the fundraising efforts of numerous charitable organizations worldwide.
For more information about Burton Morris and his work, visit www.burtonmorris.com.
About Spring Commencement
Chatham University's Spring 2024 Commencement Ceremony will occur on Sunday, April 28, at 1:00 p.m. at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in downtown Pittsburgh. For ceremony details, please visit www.chatham.edu/commencement.