The Art Olympics visual arts competition celebrates the rich artistic heritage in St. Louis, showcasing local artists in key disciplines such as live art, wall art, sculptures, and glass-blowing.
With roots in ancient and modern artistic expressions, this vibrant event invites talented creators to battle for top honors. We are thrilled to host this dynamic competition, where diverse styles and unique visions come to life, inspiring all who attend.
Get ready to watch our visual artists go head to head in several categories!
Experience the excitement of the Art Wars, where live art battles unfold alongside our live DJ performances. Witness talented artists compete and create in real-time, adding vibrant energy to the event’s atmosphere.
Join us for the sculpture competition, featuring artists working across diverse mediums to create stunning, three-dimensional masterpieces. Witness creativity in action as these talented sculptors bring their visions to life.
Experience the wall art competition, featuring stunning canvas works, screen printing, and photography. Discover the creative expressions of talented artists as they transform blank surfaces into captivating visual stories.
Marvel at the hand-blown glass-blowing competition, where skilled artists create intricate glass masterpieces. Watch as they transform molten glass into stunning sculptures, showcasing incredible craftsmanship and creativity.
Visual Arts Director
Creative Director | Entrepreneur | Artist
Born and raised in the vibrant Central West End of St. Louis, MO, Jonnie Williams grew up inspired by his mother, Henrietta Taylor, and stepfather, Nathan Phillips, who co-founded one of the first Black-owned bed and breakfasts in the Midwest. His entrepreneurial spirit was nurtured through their catering and event planning business.
Jonnie’s early love for music was influenced by his late uncles, Kim and Ptah Williams, both renowned musicians, and his grandmother, Ella Rose, who instilled artistic talent in him. In the early 2000s, he began cultivating his passion for event planning while performing with the group West End. His music led to the successful play “Twisted,” which toured St. Louis public high schools and Six Flags.
After forming the band Luvher Boys, which later became New Faze Zoo, Jonnie moved to Atlanta to expand their musical reach under the mentorship of music industry executive Kawan “KP” Prather. Eventually returning to St. Louis, he reconnected with the local arts scene and played a key role in launching the vintage retail store Reset.
During the pandemic in 2020, Jonnie embarked on a journey of self-discovery that led to creating HLGN (Human Life Graciously Noticed), which evolved into Graciously Noticed. Inspired by his childhood nostalgia and fashion influences from his father’s style, he curated clothing collections that resonated with many.
In 2022, Jonnie launched the first “Noticed Art Expo,” providing a platform for local artists and marking his debut as an art curator. This event was a major success, leading to partnerships with Angad Arts Hotel and enhancing the expo annually. His clothing brand continues to thrive with global online sales.
In 2024, Jonnie celebrated significant growth by opening two storefronts and an event space. Through his diverse endeavors, he remains dedicated to fostering creativity and connection within the St. Louis art and music community.
