Mooneyham Art LLC announces the official launch of the Alton Art Expo 2 Graphic Art Contest, inviting artists from across the region to submit original artwork for consideration as the signature image of the 2026 Expo. This year’s event will be held at Old Bakery Beer Company, marking a new chapter for the local growing arts community and mental health advocacy.
The Alton Art Expo is a mental health–centered art fair created to help destigmatize the use of behavioral health services and expand outreach opportunities for individuals and families seeking support. The Expo proudly benefits Centerstone, a national leader in behavioral health care, reinforcing the event’s mission to merge creativity, community, and wellness. Additionally, Centerstone has agreed that all donations will stay in our community to benefit our local citizens. All artists will keep 100% off their sales at the expo, as Mooneyham Art believes artist should always be paid for their work!
Last year’s inaugural Expo featured Tom Blood’s “Balloon Picker” painting, which became the face of the event and was published hundreds of times across press, radio, and film, giving the artist extraordinary visibility throughout the region. This year’s selected artist will receive similar widespread exposure, along with an additional opportunity: a complimentary vending booth at the 2026 Alton Art Expo 2, offering direct engagement with attendees and collectors for free.
The contest is open to the public, and anyone 18 years of age or older is eligible to enter. Artists may submit an unlimited number of entries, with a fee of $10 per submission. Each entry must be a diffrent work of art from previous submissions. All entries must be received by the March 31, 2026 deadline.
Mooneyham Art encourages emerging and established artists alike to participate in this unique opportunity to contribute to a community‑driven event that celebrates creativity while supporting mental health advocacy.
* Entry fees are used to offset Alton Art Expo 2 admin fees and expenses.
For questions email Charles at painted1expression@yahoo.com