The South Arkansas Arts Center welcomes Paragould, Arkansas artist Mandy Maxwell Mooneyham and her exhibition “Chree Journeys” to the Lobby Gallery.  The Opening Reception will be July 27 with the exhibition running through September 5, 2024.

Inspired by the symbiotic connection between trees and chairs, Mooneyham’s “Chree Journeys” represent the dynamic interplay between our grounded existence and the boundless growth and transformation of our thoughts. Each piece in this series is a visual metaphor for the human thought process, where trees symbolize the adaptability and resilience of the human mind, and chairs embody the constructed nature of our recollections.

Mooneyham’s artistic journey began in rural Arkansas, where she taught herself to draw and paint by studying masterpieces from old library books. She later honed her skills at Arkansas State University, where she discovered her love for surrealism and printmaking. Her fascination with “Chrees” started with her first piece, “Such Great Heights,” in 2009, and has since become an all-consuming passion.

Throughout her career, Mooneyham has received numerous accolades and exhibited her work in venues such as the Brooks Museum of Art in Memphis and the Batesville Area Arts Council Gallery. Her most recent achievement is being recognized as a touring artist with the Arkansas Small Works on Paper 2023 exhibition.

Mooneyham’s exhibition invites viewers on a journey of introspection and contemplation, allowing them to delve into the complexities of the human mind. Her artwork is a testament to her dedication to capturing the intricate nuances of human existence through her unique “Chree” concept. With each piece, she aims to evoke a sense of wonder, ignite introspection, and illuminate the profound marvels that lie within the captivating realm of “Chree.”

The Opening Reception will be held Saturday, July 27 from 6-7:30 p.m. in conjunction with “Lines & Layers: The Art of Gary Bachers & Christopher Bachers” that is showing in the Merkle and Price Galleries. SAAC gallery exhibits are free and open to the public 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Opening reception invite. Courtesy of SAAC.