Images(8)

Storyboard

Object number2023.178.3 a-f

Artist Peggy Ann Owens Skillen

Date1971

MediumPaperboard; Paint; Graphite; Rubber; Adhesive

Credit LineGift of Suzetta Large

DescriptionPainted storyboard piece of Oscar the Grouch in the shape of different components of the character including head/neck, eyes, mouth, garbage can, proper right arm, and proper left arm. All are painted paperboard backed with flat black rubber magnets. DimensionsHeight x Width x Depth (a-f together): 18.563 x 15.625 x 0.375 in. (47.2 x 39.7 x 1 cm)
Height x Width x Depth (a): 11.563 x 9.813 x 0.375 in. (29.4 x 24.9 x 1 cm)
Height x Width x Depth (b): 2.313 x 6.813 x 0.188 in. (5.9 x 17.3 x 0.5 cm)
Height x Width x Depth (c): 2.438 x 7.938 x 0.125 in. (6.2 x 20.2 x 0.3 cm)
Height x Width x Depth (d): 7.375 x 10.938 x 0.25 in. (18.7 x 27.8 x 0.6 cm)
Height x Width x Depth (e): 8.625 x 5.875 x 0.188 in. (21.9 x 14.9 x 0.5 cm)
Height x Width x Depth (f): 8.25 x 6.063 x 0.25 in. (21 x 15.4 x 0.6 cm)
Historical NotesOscar the Grouch character sketch, around 1971. Part of a collection of artwork by Peggy Ann Owens Skillen.Label TextPeggy Owens Skillen helped to create the modern version of the PBS-TV show Sesame Street. A graduate of Monessen High School, Storer College, and Carnegie Tech, Skillen worked at the Pittsburgh Courier before heading to New York City. It is uncertain how she connected with Sesame Street, but collection materials suggest that she drew character sketches, possible storyboard scenes, and props. Her work symbolized the show’s commitment to giving voice to African American and urban experiences rarely depicted on TV when it debuted in 1969. Sesame Street’s producers consciously recruited a diverse staff to accomplish this purpose. Skillen later continued her role in arts and education as a reading specialist in the New York City School system. The materials in our collection show that Skillen created character sketches, possible storyboard street scenes, and perhaps items that served as props. After her work with Sesame Street, she continued her role in arts and education, working as a reading specialist in the New York City School system for many years.

Related institution Public Broadcasting Service

Related institution Monessen High School

Related institution Carnegie Mellon University

Previous owner Pittsburgh Courier (1907 - 1966)

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