Bob Weck, Nancy Lowery Weck, Derik Holtmann, Dan Lamping – Subtle Beauty: Exploring Subterranean Worlds

November 18 – December 11

Biologist Bob Weck, ceramicist Nancy Lowery Weck, photographer Derik Holtmann, and high school social studies teacher Dan Lamping all share a common dedication to protecting cave habitats, though their approaches differ. Bob contributes through scientific research, studying cave ecosystems and their biodiversity. His wife, Nancy, raises awareness about the importance of cave conservation through her ceramic art, using her creativity to educate the public. Derik documents caves, highlighting the beauty and fragility of these environments with his images. Dan brings his caving expertise and his role as an educator to the forefront, mentoring new generations of cave stewards and leading efforts in cave preservation. In this exhibition, their unique skills and perspectives converge on the shared mission of safeguarding cave ecosystems for future generations.

Peter Manion – Loneliness at Play

August 26 – September 25

Peter Manion’s creative journey relates deeply to his personal history. After graduating from the Art Institute of Chicago, he worked as an artist until an unexpected turn led him into a decade-long career in historic home restoration. The expert craftsmanship and insights he learned in that time now inform his art.

His current body of work explores the complex interplay between childhood trauma and adulthood, which, left unresolved, can intensify and overwhelm us. Incorporating construction materials and techniques, he speaks to the reconstruction and reclamation of our emotional landscapes.

Manion lives and works in St. Louis, Missouri, and runs H.I. Space Gallery alongside Andrew Goodman.

SWIC Student Art Exhibition 2024

April 22 – May 8

An exhibition of featured work by Southwestern Illinois College art students.

Schmidt Art Center High School Art Exhibition 2024

March 18 – April 3

Artwork displayed by area high school students.

Participating High Schools:

• Althoff
• Belleville East
• Belleville West
• Collinsville
• Dupo
• Freeburg
• Highland
• Mascoutah
• New Athens
• O’Fallon
• Sparta
• Triad

Clark Medley: Lines of Thought

January 22 – February 21

With a career spanning 34 years, Clark Medley has demonstrated his remarkable versatility, evolving from a professional tattoo artist to a multifaceted internationally known artist with a distinctive style that
transcends various art forms.

He turns to the world around him as an ever-present wellspring of inspiration, guiding his creative process. Narrating a chapter of his life story with each painting, Medley unfolds a unique tale one brushstroke at a time.

At the heart of his current body of work lies a cryptic and typographical calligraphy language, a unique creation that blends abstract forms with a touch of modern and contemporary flair.