2026 Season poster features original art by painter Lon Brauer in a poster designed by Clayton Hopkins. 

© Opera Edwardsville 2026

Artist Biography

Lon Brauer is an American artist known for his work in figure and plein air landscape.  Born in 1955 and coming of age in the 1970s, he has roots in the abstract expressionist movement.  He has a BFA from Washington University and an MFA from Fontbonne University, both in St. Louis MO. His work is a mix of the abstract and representational, bringing an impressionistic use of paint and materials to create images that challenge the viewer with new perspectives on the landscape genre. Lon’s background comes from 30 years as a studio photographer and photo illustrator specializing in images for advertising and design. He currently owns and operates Lon Brauer Studios in Granite City, Illinois.

Artist Statement

It has been a fabulous experience to create the Opera Edwardsville poster for the 2026 season. Opera Edwardsville is very much a stage production that presents with open arms to the community at large. In my image I wanted to convey the grandeur and wide sweeping pageantry that is offered to art patrons of all stripes. Art, whether performance or visual, is at its best when shared with others. Opera Edwardsville is a community gem!  - Lon Brauer

Welcome to Opera Edwardsville, where the history and charm of Edwardsville meet the power and beauty of Opera. 

Our mission is to develop an arts organization for the benefit of Edwardsville, Illinois and the St. Louis Metro-East community with the goals of providing musical excellence, educational outreach, community development, an artistic platform, and cultural enrichment.

Music is an important part of Edwardsville’s history, with a 175-year-old Municipal Band, the iconic Mississippi River Festival, and now Opera Edwardsville. Through concerts, lectures, recitals, operas, masterclasses, and educational outreach programs, OE exposes audiences to bold artistic ideas, powerful dramas, fascinating history, global perspectives, and beautiful music through the shared experience of live opera. 

Sharing the music I love with my hometown is an absolute joy. I am grateful for the support, enthusiasm and momentum behind Opera Edwardsville and consider it a great privilege to be contributing to the arts community in Edwardsville. I am so grateful for the many individuals, organizations, and businesses who support OE. 

Thank you,

Chase Hopkins