Commissioned for - MSM Department of Surgery
Roots & Rise: A Legacy of Healing Spaces
2025
This mixed media piece was created by Jonquille which explores the intersecting narratives of African American healthcare, education, and community organizing through the lens of coffee house culture. The artwork features profiles rendered in rich coffee-inspired tones, symbolizing both the Ethiopian origins of coffee and the African American experience.
Historical/Modern Connection:
The piece honors the tradition of Black-owned coffee houses that served as vital community spaces where:
- Healthcare workers shared medical knowledge
- Civil rights activists gathered safely
- Educational initiatives took root
- Community healing occurred
The golden book element represents both traditional African healing knowledge and modern medical education, while the profiles showcase contemporary African American professionals continuing this legacy of community care.