In Memoriam - The Passing of Turtel Onli

PRESS RELEASE: Onli Studios & Turtel Onli 

~ OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE FAMILY ~

Chicago, IL – The art world mourns the loss of Turtel Onli, a pioneering artist, businessman, author, art therapist, educator, and publisher, who passed away at his home in Chicago on January 15, 2025, at the age of 72.
 

Turtel Onli, born on January 25, 1952, was a multifaceted creative force whose work spanned painting, drawing, illustration, publishing, fashion, and multimedia production. He was widely recognized as "the Father" of the "Black Age of Comics," a movement dedicated to the promotion, creation, and support of Afrocentric comic books and graphic novels. This genre was created and conceived by Turtel Onli .  Onli also coined the term "Rhythmism" to describe his unique artistic style, which fused primitive and futuristic concepts .

Onli's career was marked by numerous achievements and contributions to the arts. He authored and illustrated multiple comic books and graphic novels, including NOG, Protector of the Pyramids, Malcolm 10, Nog Nu, and Grammar Patrol. His work has been featured in prestigious publications such as Playboy Magazine, Chicago Magazine, and Avant Garde Magazine, and his illustrations have been commissioned by notable clients including McDonald's, Motown Productions, and Holt, Rhinehart & Winston.

In addition to his artistic endeavors, Onli was a dedicated educator and art therapist. He worked as an art instructor in the Chicago Public Schools for over two decades and taught at Columbia College Chicago and Harold Washington College. He also founded the Black Arts Guild (B.A.G.), which provided a platform for young emerging artists like himself to explore various mediums and develop their talents.
 

Onli's impact extended beyond the classroom and the canvas. He curated exhibitions, such as "Reverend Phillips and Turtel Onli: An Artistic and Spiritual Legacy," and opened Onli Studios at the Bridgeport Arts Center in Chicago. His work is included in the collections of Miles Davis, Alice Coltrane, the Chicago Children's Museum, and Johnson Publishing Company.

Turtel Onli's legacy is one of innovation, mentorship, and unwavering dedication to the arts. He was a voice of encouragement and truth, touching the lives of countless artists and students throughout his 55-year career. His contributions to the world of comics, particularly through the Black Age of Comics movement, have left an indelible mark on the industry.

 
Onli is survived by his family, friends, and the many artists and students he mentored and inspired. His passing is a profound loss to the art community, but his spirit and vision will continue to inspire future generations.

Thank you all for all the calls, prayers & posts from family, friends & supporters during this incredibly difficult time.

A Retrospective of Onli’s work and celebration of his life is being planned for late Spring 2025.  

Details regarding the exhibit will be made public once a date is confirmed.

Please email your name and number to 

[email protected] to be included in updates.

Thank you.

(The family has asked me to release this statement on their behalf as a representative of Onli Studios. Please fell free to contact me with any further questions. Catherine Thompson. 773-255-4784)