Arms Wide Open: Sebree “Roc” Johnson

From Sebree’s mother Rochelle: Sebree "ROC" Johnson was a high school graduate, special son, wonderful brother, and great father. Had he lived past 19 he would have made a difference in someone's life. He was a trend-setter and a warrior for things he believed in. On April 9th, 2010, when he was killed, he was standing up against a bully, not knowing he was standing up to a felon the city has repeatedly let out. Sebree was just being Sebree, trying to correct a wrong, and I know if he had to do it again he would. That's what made him unique, and that's why I still stand tall and proudly say, that's my son.

From the artist Anna Kocher: I didn't have the privilege of knowing Sebree, but I did have the privilege of hearing about him from his mother, who graciously and courageously shared with me some of his dreams, his loves, and all those things that made him unique and special. In my painting I tried to capture a hint of what his mother described: arms open to the world, open to his possibility and potential, strong and confident and beloved. Tragically, Sebree was not afforded the opportunity to realize his potential, but he is remembered and loved in all his vibrant promise.

From the curator: “Vibrant” is such an apt word to describe the portrait Anna created. The colors and patterns on the grid of basketballs seems to vibrate and symbolize the potential of this young man. His arms reach out and his front foot is poised for a step forward as he is ready to move. Without knowing the circumstance of his noble deed that cost him his life, several older teenagers who saw this portrait told me that it reminded them of a photo of a basketball star in a similar pose but that beyond that it reminded them of the figure of Christ on the cross. I had not seen this before. What I do see is a masterful use of detail and color to form this interpretation of Sebree. His arms are out and ready, he is prepared with a back pack perhaps filled with things to help with whatever comes up, a pure white shirt, and the powerful red of his shoes stepping out onto the cool blue of the world, tears framing those steps.

Arms Wide Open: Sebree “Roc” Johnson Portrait of Sebree Johnson by Anna Kocher oil on canvas 20” x 24” 2019