Mocktails and Conversations: Politically Engaged Art

A figurative colorist who skillfully utilizes color, depth, and design, Monique Rolle-Johnson’s trademarks are etched in her artistic flamboyance and rich, ethnic heritage. To taste color, feel texture, and hear patterns are key objectives in her work that continue to engage her viewers. Affectionately penned “The Artistic Diva”, her talents range from drawing to printmaking, jewelry to ceramics, and illustration to her signature bold, vibrant paintings. Herald for her knowledge and employment of intense color, Monique has received degrees from the acclaimed Rhode Island School of Design and The University of the Bahamas in conjunction with the University of the West Indies. Her works are in private and gallery collections both nationally and internationally, including those of the late Dr. Maya Angelou, Marian Wright Edelman and the Children’s Defense Fund, Dawn Davies, the late Vincent D’Aguiliar, the Honorable Allison Maynard - Esq., and the Bannister Gallery of Rhode Island College. Her solo and group exhibitions have spanned the U.S. and the Caribbean. A native of the Bahamas, Monique resides in Rhode Island (USA). She has held such positions as art educator, gallery curator, and art festival coordinator. She continues to be sought regarding art & design consultation, educational expertise, and fine art commissions.

Judith Lynn Stillman, the Artist-in-Residence and a Professor of Music at Rhode Island College, enjoys a distinguished international career as pianist, composer, choral conductor, filmmaker, and artistic visionary, focusing upon using the arts as a voice for social justice. Stillman, who began playing piano at age three, received Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees from The Juilliard School, where she was awarded the Dethier Prize for Outstanding Pianist and won the Juilliard Concerto Competition.