Layers of Memory
Monique Rollins
Unix Gallery presents the work of Monique Rollins (b. 1980, USA) in "Layers on Memory" an internationally acclaimed artist whose practice bridges historical reference, personal reflection, and material innovation. Drawing inspiration from the radiant palettes of the Venetian Renaissance and the layered landscapes of her adoptive Italy, Rollins creates painterly worlds that are as emotionally charged as they are formally dynamic.
Her work unfolds at the intersection of gesture, texture, and color. Collage, fabric, and fibrous materials mingle with oil, acrylic, and charcoal to generate compositions that are at once dissected and whole—elegant yet unrestrained. These tactile dialogues mirror the dualities of daily life and caregiving, infusing the work with a visceral intimacy. At the heart of her practice lies an enduring exploration of femininity—its histories, burdens, and spiritual resilience—expressed through a fearless embrace of materiality and color.
Beyond her studio practice, Rollins is the founder of John William Gallery and the Emerging Curator Platform, an initiative in partnership with the Delaware Art Museum and the University of Delaware. This pioneering program highlights curatorial voices and artistic practices from historically underrepresented communities, underscoring her commitment to expanding access and equity within the field.
Rollins’ portfolio—ranging from vibrant mixed media paintings to delicate charcoal drawings—charts a deeply personal journey that transcends the individual. Her works are not only records of lived experience but also portals into the collective human condition, inviting viewers to engage with emotion, memory, and the transformative power of art.