Thelonious 

Dan Graziano created this painting of jazz musician Thelonious Monk, who is primarily rendered in black and dark purple, against a vivid orange backdrop. Monk's serene upward gaze draws us into the composition, inviting reflection on the narratives woven into this piece. Monk was a crucial figure in the development of bebop and modern jazz. His compositions and improvisational style were known for their dissonance and rhythmic complexity. Jazz provided a crucial space for Black artists to express their creativity and challenge racial barriers during the mid-20th century, so Monk's music embodies a powerful form of cultural expression and resistance. Graziano's choice to render Monk in such deep, dark hues against a bright background evokes the emotional depth and complexity of Monk's music. The use of color and light not only captures Monk's likeness but also seems to amplify the soulful energy that defined his career.