School is back in session at the Leatherneck station, marking the return of art to campus. The Western Illinois University Art Gallery will reopen on Monday with a solo exhibition by retired WIU art professor Michael Mahoney, titled “Paintings.”
A reception is scheduled for Tuesday from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m., where Mahoney will discuss his work.
Born in Detroit as the eldest of ten siblings, Mahoney’s passion for art ignited early, setting him on a path toward becoming a professional painter. After earning both his undergraduate and Master of Fine Arts degrees in painting from Wayne State University, Mahoney began sharing his artistic expertise with aspiring students in the Detroit area, guiding them in building their own portfolios and nurturing their creative voices. Before embarking on his teaching career, he spent five months in Italy refining his craft, an experience that deeply influenced his artistic vision and technique.
Mahoney’s distinguished career eventually led him to Western Illinois University, where he became a full-time faculty member and inspired students for 15 years through his dedication to teaching and his creative accomplishments. Today, he remains an active part of the Macomb community, continuing to produce innovative work in his studio.
Mahoney’s esteemed oeuvre exhibit, “Paintings,” will remain in the gallery until Friday, September 26.
The University Art Gallery (located at 1 University Circle in Macomb) is open from 9 a.m. to noon, then 1 to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturdays. Admission is free and open to the public.
