PHILADELPHIA — “Jacob Lawrence and the Urban Experience: Selected Prints 1963-2000,” which opens at the University of Pennsylvania’s Arthur Ross Gallery on Oct. 16, is an exhibit of nearly 40 prints paying homage to the city and the urban experience that inspired the artist to share his every-day experiences with people and places in Harlem.

A renowned 20th century African-American artist, Lawrence (1917-2000) addressed many of the most pressing social issues of the past century involving social equity, unity and progress through his paintings and prints.

Special events include a gallery talk given by Dejay B. Duckett, the curator of the exhibit, on Oct. 15 at 5 p.m. and a discussion with Bridge Moore, president of DC Moore Gallery and Lawrence’s art dealer, on Oct. 29 at 5 p.m.

Opening events are co-sponsored by the Center for Africana Studies at Penn and the Arthur Ross Gallery. An educational-outreach program is planned with support from the Connelly Foundation.

“Jacob Lawrence and the Urban Experience” runs at the Arthur Ross Gallery, 220 S. 34th St., through Dec. 24.

Gallery hours are Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and weekends, noon-5 p.m. All exhibits are free and open to the public.

Additional information is available at www.upenn.edu/ARG or 215-898-2083.