PROVIDENCE, R.I. — Iconic filmmaker John Waters says he was surprised to be offered an honorary degree from a prestigious Rhode Island art school. After all, he was thrown out of every school he ever went to.
Waters is known for his quirky films that push the boundaries of good taste, including 1972’s outrageous cult classic “Pink Flamingos.”
He’ll be the keynote speaker at the Rhode Island School of Design’s commencement next weekend.
Waters jokes that he doesn’t even know if he got a high school diploma. He says receiving the degree is very peculiar, but he’s flattered.
Waters was kicked out of New York University in the 1960s for smoking marijuana on campus.
Waters will share a stage with three members of the band Talking Heads and author Adam Gopnik.
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.