Jean Monti is an accomplished artist and a respected leader in the field of portraiture. She travels across the nation to capture reference images through photography, which she later utilizes as inspiration for her paintings. Her style, shaped during her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree at Rhode Island School of Design, reflects her studies in illustration, painting, and photography, particularly evident in her exquisite use of light.
After graduating from Rhode Island School of Design, Jean embarked on a successful freelance career, illustrating over 70 book covers. She collaborated with major publishers, as well as advertising agencies, modeling agencies, and photography studios in New York City. Her ability to capture the likeness of her subjects and her commitment to maintaining a high standard of art have resulted in numerous commissions throughout the United States. Jean takes pride in being a member of The Portrait Society of America and is represented for her portrait paintings by Portraits Inc. and New South Portraits.
I am often asked about my beginnings in the incredible world of art and , why and how I live and breathe in the beauty of it and come by my inspiration. I could say it all begin when I studied drawing, painting, and photography at Rhode Island School of Design where I received a BFA in Illustration in 1987, but that was not truly the beginning; it all started for me many years ago as a child.
I was born in North Providence, Rhode Island, number 5 in a large, closely knit Italian family of 6. I grew up with 2 sisters and 3 brothers. My mother Jean is extremely talented and my father Edmund is an intelligent, driven entrepreneur who created a construction business in spite of a lack of formal education. My parents’ optimism, dedication, work ethics and values drove me to exceed all expectations and become something more. But it was my older brother Johnny who touched my heart in ways I can never fully describe.
Johnny suffered from muscular dystrophy. He was unable to walk, so most of his activities were spent on arts and crafts. Since I was the younger sibling, my mother always included me in his daily creative ventures in order to keep me busy. Of all the children in our family, Johnny and I inherited a talent and deep passion for the arts. As we grew and John weakened, I gained a remarkable insight, learning to appreciate and respect my own capabilities.
Everyday I watched my brother struggle. He wanted so badly to be able to physically achieve all that he mentally envisioned. As he grew weaker I grew stronger, and it was very hard not to feel guilty and sad.
I remember pushing Johnny in his wheelchair to the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary church. There, we took painting classes taught by nuns. I still have a painting of Johnny’s; that painting, along with my memories of working alongside him, is a treasured gift.
My brother passed away at the age of 18 when I was just 14 years old. Johnny – along with my parents – is the very spark and foundation of what inspires me. Our whole family was so blessed to have him in our lives; Johnny brought us closer, teaching us to love one another even more.
Through Johnny, I learned gratitude and motivation, becoming devoted to capturing the love and connection between loved ones. It is very important to me to convey what I feel inside about family. I want to share this with others, and hope that I can portray through my paintings what it means to love and be loved.
What energizes me most is family and the dynamic connection between loved ones. I love children and I was blessed to have nieces and nephews before my own children were born. They in fact were the inspiration behind my senior portfolio at Rhode Island School of Design.
I hope you will continue to join me as I explore my own inner vision and offer guidance for aspiring artists, I am Jean Monti, artist, photographer, wife and devoted mother. Welcome to my world.
Monti Studio is the creative brand of Jean Monti, an artist, illustrator, and entrepreneur passionate about crafting meaningful art and products that inspire joy and connection. Originally established as a platform for Jean’s commissioned works—including portraiture, gallery pieces, and collaborations with publishers and agencies—Monti Studio has grown into a space for her personal creative endeavors. Its first offering is her debut children’s book, *Little Leo the Lemon*.
Jean’s artistic journey began at the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), where she developed her craft and her love for storytelling. Her work celebrates family, home, and the vibrant world of children, blending artistic excellence with heartfelt themes.
Monti Studio reflects Jean’s vision of creating art that resonates deeply—whether through cherished books, captivating paintings, or future products for homes and children. With a strong foundation in creativity and a commitment to spreading hope and positivity, Monti Studio is a growing brand dedicated to thoughtful and imaginative creations.
Follow Monti Studio as it continues to inspire and explore new creative possibilities.
Also follow @JeanMontiArtist_ and @LittleLeoTheLemon on Instagram
