Meet the Author: Mary Ellen Matthews Book Signing Event at Don Purcell Jeweler

Meet the Vision Behind the Lens of SNL: Book Signing with Mary Ellen Matthews at DON PURCELL JEWELER

Celebrated SNL Photographer Shares Behind-the-Scenes Stories and Signs Copies of Her New Book, “The Art of the SNL Portrait”

Wednesday, April 16 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. 

Atlanta, GA (April 9, 2025) — Acclaimed photographer Mary Ellen Matthews, best known for her iconic “bumper” portraits on Saturday Night Live, will host a book signing and meet-and-greet at DON PURCELL JEWELER in Buckhead Village on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Guests will have the opportunity to meet the artist, purchase copies of her new book, and have them personally signed.

Published by ABRAMS and released on March 4, The Art of the SNL Portrait celebrates the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live and marks the first time these unforgettable images—created by Matthews during her more than two-decade tenure on the show—are collected in a single volume. From Andy Samberg lounging in a martini glass to Billie Eilish buried in snow, Matthews’ portraits have become part of the show’s visual DNA, bridging comedy and creativity between commercial breaks.

With a foreword by SNL creator Lorne Michaels, the 272-page hardcover brings fans behind the camera for a rare look at the creative process behind some of television’s most imaginative portraiture.

Mary Ellen Matthews has been the resident photographer for Saturday Night Live since 1999, shaping the show’s still photography and capturing the essence of each guest with wit, artistry, and visual flair. Known for her bold use of color, composition, and conceptual imagery, she has photographed many of the biggest names in entertainment.

The event will be held at DON PURCELL JEWELER, a cherished destination for jewelry connoisseurs in Buckhead Village. Known for its discerning curation and timeless elegance, the boutique offers the perfect setting for this special evening celebrating artistry in all its forms.

Books will be available for purchase onsite. DON PURCELL is located in Buckhead Village at 3012 Bolling Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30305. For more information, visit donpurcelljeweler.com  or call 404.239.4350. Stay connected on Instagram at  @donpurcelljeweler.  

EVENT DETAILS:

WHAT: Meet the Vision Behind the Lens of SNL: Book Signing with Mary Ellen Matthews at DON PURCELL JEWELER

Matthews' book, The Art of the SNL Portrait, published on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of SNL, (Abrams; March 4, 2025; U.S. $55.00; Hardcover) is the first time these iconic images, that are vital to the show’s identity, are in print. Complete with a foreword by Lorne Michaels, The Art of the SNL Portrait is a celebration of America’s longest-running comedy TV show and a tribute to its enduring artistic identity.

WHEN:  Wednesday, April 16, 2025 | 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

WHERE:  DON PURCELL JEWELER | 3012 Bolling Way NE, Atlanta, GA 30305

COST: Event is free to attend. Books will be available for purchase onsite. 

RSVP: Space is limited, please RSVP to Caren West PR at rsvp@carenwestpr.com. 

CONNECT: For more information, visit donpurcelljeweler.com. Follow along on Instagram at  @donpurcelljeweler.