Mooneyham Art announces the addition of two featured artists from southern Illinois
Alton’s Mooneyham Art recently announced the addition of two new featured artists to its gallery: Christy Motsinger and Cathy Dudley. Both are active members of the Little Egypt Art Association (LEAA) in Marion, Ill.
Charles Mooneyham and co-curator Stephen Scordias of Mooneyham Art first encountered Little Egypt’s gallery during a visit to Marion for Mooneyham’s speech at Centerstone’s Life; Story 5K Run. While exploring the area, they stopped into the LEAA gallery and were impressed by the work of Motsinger and Dudley, among others. Both Mooneyham’s and Scordias’s families purchased pieces from the artists, and following the visit, Motsinger and Scordias stayed in contact.
Following this connection, Motsinger and Dudley (both board members and instructors with LEAA) were invited to join Mooneyham Art in Alton. Their inclusion reflects Mooneyham Art’s ongoing commitment to supporting regional artists and building meaningful relationships with other galleries to create more artistic opportunities for artists. Additionally, demonstrating not only how art can lift a community but also bridge between them. Mooneyham Art has hosted successful exhibitions and events that highlight emerging and established talent across southern Illinois.
Further, Charles Mooneyham (owner of Mooneyham Art), Stephen Scoridias (Mooneyham Art co-curator), and several Mooneyham Art resident artists have also joined Little Egypt Art Association and have work on display in Marion.
This exchange underscores how art can serve as a bridge between communities, creating opportunities rooted in solidarity. “We are equally excited to welcome these regional artists to the Alton/Riverbend area, as well as the opportunity to showcase some of our artists within the Marion art community,” said Scordias.
Motsinger (also the education coordinator for Little Egypt Art Association) has played a key role in fostering collaborative efforts, helping bring new established artists into Marion and supporting LEAA members in expanding their reach. As a multidisciplinary artist working in photography and painting, Motsinger draws inspiration from a wide range of imagery, from the untouched serenity of nature to the structural elegance of urban architecture.
Mooneyham Art is a studio gallery and creative hub located at 305 State Street in historic downtown Alton, Ill. It was founded and is curated by Charles Mooneyham, who recently returned to art after a 20-year career in behavioral health and most recently for the suicide hotline. The studio gallery serves as both an exhibition venue and a collaborative platform for emerging and established artists alike, but also as Mooneyham’s studio where he creates his work.
Known for its commitment to authenticity, community engagement, and artistic excellence, acts of philanthropy and overall focus on behavioral health advocacy Mooneyham Art hosts rotating shows, pop-up events, art fairs, critique sessions, and cross-regional relationships that elevate the visibility of Midwest talent.
The gallery emphasizes storytelling through art, supporting artists not just in technique but with a focus on mental wellness additionally bolstering the healing powers of art. Mooneyham Art moves forward with additional attention to art accessibility for all, combat gatekeeping towards rural artists and create an environment where money is generated off the art and not the artist. Mooneyham Art continues to grow as a premier destination for collectors, collaborators, and community members seeking curated artistic experiences.
“I can think of no better way to lift a community than through the empowerment of arts,” said Mooneyham.
