Hannibal’s rich creative community is getting an exciting new addition this spring as Ol’ Blue Gallery presents “Little Things”, a bold group exhibition that brings nationally and internationally celebrated artists straight to the heart of Missouri. Running from April 18 through May 24, the show features over 100 artists, each delivering original works no larger than 12 inches—proving that small-scale pieces can carry major impact.
Headlining Artists:
-Justin Bua One of the most iconic visual artists of our time, Bua is internationally acclaimed for his dynamic fusion of urban culture, fine art, and hip-hop. His signature style has shaped the visual identity of an entire generation, with work collected by Quincy Jones, President Barack Obama, and countless fans worldwide. For “Little Things,” Ol’ Blue Gallery is showcasing an extremely rare collection of Bua’s personal sketches—intimate glimpses into the raw foundation of his larger masterpieces. It’s a rare chance for Midwest collectors and art lovers to experience work typically only available in major art hubs.
-Bob Dob Known for his signature blend of surf, skate, and punk rock influences, Bob Dob’s narrative-driven paintings have been showcased in premier galleries across the U.S. and Europe. His client list includes American Airlines, Aflac, and The Village Voice, and his distinct, character-driven style has cemented him as a heavyweight in contemporary pop surrealism.
-18andCounting (Stan Chisholm) A South St. Louis native, Chisholm is a multidisciplinary artist whose work spans experimental hip-hop, visual arts, and education. Performing under the moniker 18andCounting, he has established himself as a dynamic lyricist, producer, DJ, sculptor, and illustrator. His contributions to the St. Louis art scene include serving as the Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis’ first DJ-in-residence and participating in numerous exhibitions that challenge the notion of the city as merely a “fly-over” location. His involvement in “Little Things” brings a profound local resonance to the exhibition.
-Jackie Rabbit A standout figure in the Midwest, Jackie Rabbit is an award-winning tattoo artist and painter whose evocative, detail-rich works blend surrealism, nature, and portraiture. Based in St. Louis and originally from the Bay Area, she’s spent over two decades shaping the region’s art scene—making her a hometown hero whose artistry is both locally loved and nationally recognized.
-Shawn Coss Revered for his ink-heavy, macabre aesthetic, Coss’s dark yet emotionally resonant pieces (including his viral Inktober Illness series) have earned him a cult following across the U.S. and beyond.
-ArtByTai (Tai Taeoalii) Founder of Hannibal’s Ol’ Blue Gallery and
internationally recognized for his meticulously detailed ballpoint pen
works, Tai’s surreal, highly imaginative pieces are the heartbeat of the
gallery’s bold programming. Beyond his artwork, Tai also hosts The
DOD45 Show, a visual podcast that’s connected him with some of the
most respected names in indie hip-hop, art, and culture—further
extending the reach and network that Ol’ Blue Gallery brings to Hannibal.
Also Featured:
The exhibition’s lineup rounds out with collaborative works from Mugs and
Pockets (the creative duo of Swamburger of Soliloquists of Sound and Scarlet Monk), along with standout artists like Kevin Eslinger, Maxine Thirteen, Alexis Price, and dozens more across fantasy, tattoo, horror, and pop-surrealist subcultures. You’ll find names ranging from cult indie legends to emerging underground heavyweights—many making their Missouri debut.
Opening Night Soundscape:
Opening night (April 18, 6–9 PM) will transform Ol’ Blue into an immersive
experience, featuring exclusive DJ mixes by underground production legends
Doseone (Anticon), Mopes (Strange Famous Records), and Mr. Dibbs—
bringing the same energy to the soundscape as the visuals.
Why It Matters to Hannibal:
“Little Things” complements Hannibal’s long-standing commitment to the arts by introducing a diverse range of contemporary street, pop-surrealism, and fine art voices not often seen in the region. Ol’ Blue Gallery is proud to be part of Hannibal’s growing creative community, offering Midwestern art lovers a rare opportunity to see and collect original sketches, studies, and experimental works from internationally celebrated artists—all without leaving Missouri. With connections spanning both the art world and the indie hip-hop scene, Ol’ Bluecontinues to bridge cultural gaps and introduce fresh, unexpected talent to the Midwest.
- Exhibit: “Little Things”
- Opening Reception: April 18, 6–9 PM
- Location: Ol’ Blue Gallery, 513 Church Street, Hannibal, MO
- Run Dates: April 18 – May 24
