Competition Directors
Get to know the experienced, talented art directors judging and organizing the six art genres at this year’s Art Olympics competition.
Get the Spotlight on the Art Competition Directors
The Art Olympics, presented by ArtFusion, is guided by a passionate team of competition directors who are making significant waves in the St. Louis arts community. These dedicated individuals are bringing their expertise and vision to ensure a dynamic and engaging experience for all participants.
The Abstrakt Arts Foundation is immensely grateful for their involvement, as their leadership uplifts local talent and enriches the cultural landscape of our city.
Meet the Competition Directors
Discover the inspiring stories behind our Art Olympics competition directors. Their dedication and vision are shaping the future of the St. Louis arts community. Learn more about their impactful contributions.
Jonnie Williams
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.
Willie ‘Sonny’ Metcalfe
Dance Co-Director
Willie “Sonny” Metcalfe is a celebrated figure in the dance community, known for his significant contributions both locally and nationally. A recipient of numerous awards, Sonny’s dedication to the art of dance has earned him widespread recognition. He honed his craft under the tutelage of Master Dancer Richard Martin, the grandnephew of the legendary Josephine Baker.
In 1986, Sonny founded WBMS4EVER, a pioneering performing arts academy without walls. Through this innovative platform, he has cultivated and developed dancers and choreographers who have gone on to perform with major artists and at prominent award shows, including the Super Bowl, American Music Awards, and BET Awards.
Sonny’s influence in the dance world extends far beyond his performances, as he continues to shape the future of the art form through his visionary teaching and mentorship.
Ro Ro Tabor
Dance Co-Director
A St. Louis native, Roland A.K.A “Ro Ro” Tabor has established himself as a masterful dancer and choreographer in the entertainment industry. His impressive career includes collaborations with top artists such as MC Hammer, B2K, Omarion, Aaliyah, Chris Brown, Ciara, and B5. RoRo’s talents have been showcased on prestigious stages, including the American Music Awards, BET Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards.
Ro Ro has also made his mark on the silver screen with appearances in notable films like Coach Carter, Save the Last Dance, Stomp the Yard, and You Got Served. His dynamic choreography and compelling performances have earned him recognition as a standout figure in the dance world.
Beyond performance, Ro Ro has shared his expertise globally, leading workshops that inspire and elevate aspiring dancers. His dedication to the craft has left an indelible impact on the dance and entertainment industry.
Music Director
Announcement Coming Soon!
Dwight Carter
Fashion Director
Dwight Carter, owner of Brainchild in St. Louis, has been a prominent figure in the fashion and music industries for over 30 years. With a focus on the fashion industry for the past two decades, Dwight has successfully planned, produced, and managed special events that have shaped the local and national fashion scenes.
A 1995 graduate of Fontbonne University with a BA in Music Business, Communications, and Public Relations, Dwight’s career began in media and retail management. He worked as a media buyer for the Fox Theatre and held management positions at major retailers such as Limited Express and BCBG. Dwight later transitioned into fashion event production, co-producing St. Louis Fashion Week from 2008 to 2014. His creative vision led to the creation of highly successful fashion events, including the Design Competitions “Pins and Needles,” “Fashion Anarchy,” and the “GENT Menswear Designer Series.”
Beyond his professional work, Dwight is deeply involved in the fashion community. He volunteers and serves as a member of Fashion Group International, Lindenwood University Fashion Advisory Board, Saint Louis Fashion Fund, and STL Fashion Alliance. Additionally, he shares his expertise as an adjunct professor and advisor for Fashion Promotion and Production at Stevens–The Institute of Business & Arts.
Juwan Rice
Culinary Director
Juwan Rice is a dynamic 23-year-old culinary entrepreneur based in St. Louis, Missouri, whose creative vision and passion for food have made him a rising star in the industry. As the founder of Umoja Food Group, he leads multiple ventures, including Rated Test Kitchen, Rated Café, JR Gourmet, and JR Spice, all united by the mission of bringing people together through food.
Juwan is not only a business innovator but also a dedicated community advocate, spearheading initiatives like Palate on Palette, a nonprofit teaching young adults farming and culinary skills. Featured on national platforms like Guy’s Grocery Games, Juwan continues to redefine the culinary landscape with bold concepts, sustainability efforts, and a commitment to using food as a tool for empowerment and connection.
Comedy Director