Retired Western Illinois University Art Professor, Michael Mahoney, will have his solo exhibition, "Paintings", on display August 25 through September 26 at the Western Illinois University Art Gallery.

A reception for the artist will be held Tuesday, August 26, 4:30-6:00 p.m. The artist will speak about his work at 5:00 pm.

Michael Mahoney is a painter based in Macomb, Illinois. Born in Detroit, Michigan, he is the eldest of ten children. His interest in art began early, and by high school he had committed himself to becoming a professional artist.

Mahoney earned both his undergraduate and Master of Fine Arts degrees in painting from Wayne State University in Detroit. Following his graduate studies, he spent five months in Italy studying its rich artistic heritage and producing new work. This formative experience continues to influence his practice.

Upon returning to the United States, Mahoney began teaching at several colleges and art centers in the Detroit area. He later accepted a full-time faculty position at Western Illinois University, where he taught for fifteen years. Now retired from academia, he works daily in his studio in Macomb, continuing his lifelong dedication to painting.

Admission is free and open to the public.

Parking will be allowed near the gallery starting at 4:00 pm.

Image: Divertimento I, oil on canvas mounted on wood panel, 28 x 36 inches