Together they share a love of art — a passionate love that has taken new heights amid the picturesque Prospect Park, Botanic Garden and the Brooklyn Museum. But last year Bashiri and Monifa Johnson
epitomized their zeal by launching The Motique Gallery, an art lover’s oasis, in their sumptuous brownstone, inside their very home. They are artists of a kind themselves. Monifa, an accomplished designer of fine jewelry, began as a classic street vendor in Greenwich Village and Columbus Circle. Her creations have appeared in Vogue and Essence and are worn by many well- known celebrities like Chaka Khan. Bashiri, her husband, is a talented musician. “Bash,” is a go-to percussionist who has appeared on countless commercial recordings and concerts around the globe. He has played with Whitney Houston, Ray Charles, Luther Vandross, Madonna, Bette Midler, Tony Bennett, Maxwell, Herbie Hancock, Sting – to name only a few. “Many of our friends are extremely talented,” Monifa smiles, as she talks with a visitor. In full view, the couple exudes terrific charm and knowledge of the artists and designs in the gallery. Easily conversational, they enjoy fine qualities as gallery owners. Original, modern and contemporary artists are exhibited. Some are locally-based, others are international. They bear no specific uniformity of style, content, or point of view. However they are united by commanding creative talent that draws wide and very mixed audiences. The couple chooses not to be driven by questions of sheer saleability. Paramount to their overall mission are artist integrity and strength of vision in an at-ease environment for the exchange of art and design. As one might expect, Motique Gallery would be easy a hot spot for seasoned collectors and designers. However, art novices and gift-seekers are also welcome. On view are wearable art, glass art, fine art, African art, literary art, art media, photography, jewelry and sculpture by a roster of established and emergent artists. A Motique Gallery Foundation has also been established to benefit young people through service,
education, and exposure to the arts
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