Booby’s will host a public art reception this Friday for southern Illinois artist and educator Shannon Green, whose colorful floral paintings are currently on display inside the venue’s gallery space.

The event will take place Aug. 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. at Booby’s, located on The Strip in Carbondale. The reception will include a live painting demonstration by Green, drink specials and an opportunity to meet the artist.

Green, who holds a Ph.D. in education with a focus on early childhood development, has lived and worked in southern Illinois for more than 25 years. Her art spans various media including acrylic, fiber, collage, watercolor, ink and photography. She is also known locally for her participation in the Carbondale Earth Day puppet parade, where she helps create large-scale puppets.

“She’s an artist, educator and advocate,” said Chris McKinley, art director at Booby’s. “Her work is bold, vibrant and deeply tied to nature, especially the flowers she grows in her own garden.”

The current show, titled “Summer Flower Show,” features more than 20 acrylic paintings. Most depict floral subjects in a style that blends realism with abstraction. McKinley said the sunflower-themed works, in particular, reflect the spirit of Carbondale.

“The sunflowers are big and bright — they really reflect the energy of the town,” she said. “You see them in people’s yards, and they’re hard to miss, just like Carbondale itself.”

Booby’s, a longtime Carbondale sandwich shop, bar and music venue, reopened in recent years with a renewed focus on live music and the arts. The monthly gallery wall program showcases local artists and is currently booked through August 2026.

McKinley, who formerly ran a local art shop, said many of the artists she features are people she has worked with over the years. Still, she is eager to connect with newer, younger voices in the community.

“We’re always looking for fresh artists, especially SIU students or people who haven’t had a chance to show their work publicly yet,” she said. “We’d love to give them a platform.”

All artworks in Green’s show will be available for purchase, with several budget-friendly options. McKinley said the goal is to make local art accessible to everyone in Carbondale.

“There’s a perception that art is expensive … But many of these artists understand that not everyone can buy a large piece. We try to offer a range of items so anyone can take home something special,” McKinley said.
Avery Smith, a local art enthusiast and employee of the restaurant, previewed the exhibition, and said he was drawn in by the textures and vibrant contrasts.

“It’s really bold and pretty… it took probably a lot of time (to create),” Smith said.

Booby’s plans to continue hosting monthly receptions featuring regional artists as part of its commitment to supporting the local creative community.

“Art makes a community better in so many ways. It just brings an element of beauty and inspiration to everyday life,” McKinley said.

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