Moonlite Gardens
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Art

 
 

The Art Collection at

Moonlite Gardens

CURRENT EXHIBIT

The art collection at Moonlite Gardens is a vibrant intersection of history and art, showcasing a remarkable collection of original and one-of-a-kind works by both renowned local Cincinnati artists and internationally acclaimed masters. Guests can explore the rich artistic heritage that not only complements the home's architectural elegance but also connects them to the broader cultural narratives of Ohio and beyond. This thoughtfully curated collection reflects a dynamic blend of contemporary and historical artistry, providing a unique and enriching experience for all who visit Moonlite Gardens.

SALVADOR DALÍ

A new addition to the collection is "El Cid" by the renowned Spanish artist Salvador Dalí (1904–1989). This lithograph on paper is signed in plate to the upper left. Dalí, a master of surrealism, brings a touch of European avant-garde to the collection at Moonlite Gardens. "El Cid" reflects Dalí’s signature blend of dreamlike imagery and meticulous technique, offering a historical and artistic depth that complements the other works in the collection. The inclusion of this piece adds an international dimension to the artistic narrative at Moonlite Gardens, bridging the gap between local Cincinnati talent and global artistic movements.

Robbie Kemper

The collection also features multiple acrylic paintings by Robbie Kemper, an artist celebrated for his vibrant use of color and abstract forms. Notable pieces by Kemper include:

  • "Pink, Blue, Black"

  • "Winter Sycamores"

  • "Diagonal Ladder"

  • "Minty Fresh"

Born in Cincinnati in 1957, Kemper studied Design at the University of Cincinnati College of Design, Architecture, Art and Planning (DAAP), where he currently teaches. His fine art pieces have an international following, and his creative design work has won numerous awards. He is a long-standing former resident artist at Pendleton Art Center in the historic district of Over-the-Rhine, Cincinnati, Ohio. Kemper's works bring a lively and dynamic energy to the space, inviting guests to engage with the art on an emotional level. His paintings are known for their ability to evoke a sense of joy and spontaneity, enhancing the welcoming atmosphere of Moonlite Gardens.

JOSÉ M. LIMA

Adding to the artistic diversity at Moonlite Gardens are two stunning still life oil paintings by José M. Lima, a Cuban-American artist known for his contemporary approach to traditional themes. Both pieces, titled "Untitled (Floral Still Life)," were created in 2024. These oil paintings on canvas, signed to the lower left, are displayed together, creating a harmonious and visually captivating ensemble. Lima’s work is celebrated for its ability to capture the intricate beauty of floral arrangements with a modern sensibility. His use of color and texture brings a fresh vibrancy to the genre of still life, making these pieces stand out within the collection.

The paintings reflect Lima's skill in blending realism with a touch of abstraction, inviting viewers to appreciate the delicate interplay of light and shadow that gives each flower a lifelike presence. The inclusion of these works enhances the overall collection by offering a serene and sophisticated counterpoint to the more abstract and expressionistic pieces, adding depth and variety to the visual experience at Moonlite Gardens.

William Fred Arrowood

Among the highlights are the captivating abstract expressionist acrylic paintings by William Fred Arrowood. Born in Eastern Kentucky in 1961 and moving to Northern Kentucky in 1963, Arrowood is a self-taught abstract artist whose art is an expression of his emotions in the moment. His untitled non-objective piece from 2023, an acrylic painting on canvas signed to the verso, epitomizes his spontaneous and dynamic style. Inspired by the works of Wassily Kandinsky, Willem de Kooning, and Jean-Michel Basquiat, Arrowood's paintings are often geometric with multiple layers, created using acrylic or spray paint. His work is characterized by the use of a painting palette instead of a brush, and he occasionally spills or throws paint for effect. Arrowood's vibrant, large-scale canvases are a testament to his lifelong interest in color and space, honed through his career in interior design.

Suzzanna ‘Sanna’ Frank

Adding to the collection are the vivid acrylic paintings by Suzzanna ‘Sanna’ Frank, a Cincinnati-based artist whose works beautifully depict local landmarks. One notable piece is "John A. Roebling Bridge," created in 2022. This acrylic painting on canvas board, signed and inscribed to the verso, is part of the Cincinnati Collection. Another notable piece by Frank is "Hitching Post," also created in 2022 and part of the Cincinnati Collection. The sale of the art benefited the Cincinnati Freestore Foodbank. Sanna studied at the University of Kentucky and completed her master's work at Miami University in Oxford and the University of Cincinnati. She continues to refine her craft with nationally known abstract artists and instructors. Currently, Sanna is a studio resident at the Pendleton Art Center in the historic arts district of Over-The-Rhine, Cincinnati, Ohio. Her ability to blend historical significance with contemporary artistry makes her paintings a cherished part of Moonlite Gardens.

Milagros Pongo

Another standout artist featured at Moonlite Gardens is Milagros Pongo, a Peruvian-Paraguayan contemporary artist born in 1972. Her pieces "Tulip," "Falls," and "Caspian Sea" are mixed media paintings on canvas that exemplify her innovative approach. Pongo studied art with Porfirio Bustos in Asunción, Paraguay, and at The Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes in Mexico. Additional studies in feng shui and chromotherapy influence her practice. Over three decades, she has exhibited her work in individual and group shows internationally, including venues in South Africa, Korea, Italy, Brazil, Turkey, and the United States. Notably, one of Pongo’s paintings has been exhibited in the Vatican Museum. Her technique incorporates oil and acrylic paint, Judea oils, lavender, CBD, charcoal, ink, and texturing mediums. Her compositions highlight Incan, Celtic, and Toltec cultural influences, as well as symbols of ancestral shamanic cultures, creating a whirlwind of vibrant colors. Her work emphasizes colors and symbols that attract positive energy and emotional balance, with strokes that inspire viewers to pursue their goals and dreams.

John Stobart

In addition to these original works, Moonlite Gardens proudly displays two offset lithographs by John Stobart, renowned for his detailed and historically rich maritime scenes. One of these lithographs is entitled "The Queen City of the West in 1876," the same year Moonlite Gardens was built. This piece vividly captures Cincinnati’s bustling riverfront during its golden era, providing a historical context that aligns perfectly with the home's origin. The second Stobart lithograph, created in 1990, the same year the Cincinnati Reds won the World Series, linking the artwork to another significant milestone in the city's history. The presence of these lithographs adds a significant layer of historical narrative, linking the artistry within Moonlite Gardens to pivotal years in Cincinnati's development.

Original Moonlite Gardens Artifcats

Moonlite Gardens is proud to display a rare, original 1950’s poster for Buddy Rogers & His Orchestra Featuring the Bluegrass Ramblers. It is not only a stunning artifact but also a powerful reminder of Moonlite Gardens' storied legacy as a cultural and musical icon. Once proudly displayed to announce a one-night-only performance on Saturday, September 7th, the poster embodies the spirit of the original Moonlite Gardens—a venue that brought people together for unforgettable nights of music, laughter, and celebration.

Now housed in its new location, Moonlite Gardens continues to honor and carry on that legacy. By showcasing this piece of history alongside a carefully curated collection of art and artifacts, the home pays homage to the vibrant cultural life that made the original venue so special. This poster serves as a bridge between the past and the present, reminding guests that Moonlite Gardens remains a place where stories, art, and history come alive.

As a living gallery, the new Moonlite Gardens embraces its role in preserving the memories and magic of the original while creating new experiences for guests. This commitment ensures that the legacy of Moonlite Gardens endures, not just as a cherished piece of history, but as a source of inspiration and connection for generations to come.

HISTORIC COLLECTION

Complementing the art collection, Moonlite Gardens features a permanent display of antique furniture that enhances the historic ambiance of the home. A stunning marble and walnut center table from the late 19th century graces the third floor, lit by the moon through the giant central skylight that illuminates all three stories, serving as a focal point that embodies the craftsmanship of the era.

Adding to the historical richness is a significant piece of Weller Pottery, which holds a special place in Ohio's artistic heritage. Founded in 1872 in Fultonham, Ohio, by Samuel Augustus Weller, Weller Pottery quickly evolved from a small operation into one of the most prominent art pottery manufacturers in the United States. By the early 20th century, Weller Pottery had relocated to Zanesville, Ohio, and became the largest pottery in the country, renowned for its mass-produced art pottery lines.

The piece displayed at Moonlite Gardens is an underglaze Weller pottery piece, a fine example of the artistic excellence achieved by the company during its peak years. Known for its innovative glazing techniques and intricate hand-painted designs, Weller Pottery was influential in elevating American pottery to an art form. This particular piece exemplifies the high quality and craftsmanship that made Weller Pottery highly collectible.

From its early days of producing basic stoneware to its later years of creating elaborate and imaginative art pottery, Weller Pottery’s history is deeply intertwined with Ohio's industrial and artistic development. The inclusion of this Weller piece, with its rich history and artistic significance, adds a layer of historical narrative to Moonlite Gardens, linking it to a broader tradition of American and Ohioan art pottery.

Celebrating artistic heritage

Continuing its long-standing tradition of celebrating artists, Moonlite Gardens transforms into a living gallery where history seamlessly meets contemporary creativity. The collection, featuring works by prominent local Cincinnati artists, not only tells the story of the artists themselves but also highlights Cincinnati's rich cultural heritage. Each piece, from the vibrant acrylics of Suzzanna ‘Sanna’ Frank to the dynamic abstracts of Robbie Kemper, contributes to an ongoing narrative that intertwines the past with the present.

Guests at Moonlite Gardens can enjoy a unique and enriching experience, surrounded by the beauty of both historic architecture and exceptional artistry. The integration of modern art within a historic setting not only preserves the legacy of the home but also celebrates the evolving artistic landscape of Cincinnati. By showcasing these original works and antique furnishings, Moonlite Gardens honors its heritage while promoting the city's contemporary art scene, creating an atmosphere where history and art meet.