Music Art Love

Music Art Love – Where ChrisAlex Created a Gallery/Boutique/Venue/Living Room That Refuses to Fit Any Single Category

At 137 North Main Street, ChrisAlex (Christine Alexander) has created something that defies conventional retail categorization—part art gallery featuring her signature GuitArt (mixed media collages on salvaged guitars), part boutique selling clothing and home décor, part music venue hosting open mics and concerts, part community living room where you can play house instruments, challenge someone to chess, bring in wine from neighboring establishments, read inspirational books, or just sit and absorb the eclectic creative energy. There’s a kids’ nook so families can browse while children stay entertained. Monthly events include open mic nights (welcoming musicians, poets, stand-up comedians, and all creative expression), music showcases, trivia nights, movie nights with personal introductions from ChrisAlex, art exhibits, presentations, and classes in art, acting, exercise, and improv. Founded in 2020, Music Art Love represents ChrisAlex’s vision of what a creative space can become when you reject the rigid boundaries between gallery, retail shop, performance venue, and community gathering place—creating instead a fluid, welcoming environment where visitors become participants, where browsing transforms into playing instruments or games, and where the line between performer and audience dissolves during legendary open mics that locals describe as “supportive and encouraging” rather than competitive or intimidating.

The space reflects ChrisAlex’s personality—warm, welcoming, encouraging of creativity in all forms, and committed to building community through shared artistic experience. Reviews consistently praise her as “amazing,” “such a light in our little community,” and “a beacon for creators everywhere.” This isn’t accidental. It’s the deliberate outcome of someone who understands that culture needs nurturing, that small towns require champions who create opportunities for artists and musicians, and that retail spaces can serve purposes far beyond mere commerce when they’re designed around human connection rather than just transactions.

The Signature Art: GuitArt by ChrisAlex

ChrisAlex’s distinctive artistic contribution is GuitArt—mixed media collages created on salvaged guitars, transforming broken or discarded instruments into visual art that honors their musical past while giving them new aesthetic purpose.

The Concept:

Guitars that can no longer function musically (cracked soundboards, broken necks, warped bodies, water damage, irreparable structural issues) become canvases for mixed media work. Rather than discarding these instruments or letting them gather dust, ChrisAlex transforms them into wall-hanging art that celebrates music visually.

The process likely involves:

• Surface Preparation – Cleaning, possibly light sanding, creating proper surface for adhesives and paint
• Collage Application – Layering paper, fabric, photographs, sheet music, magazine clippings, or other materials onto the guitar body
• Paint and Embellishment – Adding acrylic or mixed media paint, possibly incorporating music-themed imagery, lyrics, musician portraits, or abstract designs
• Sealing and Finishing – Protecting the collaged surface for durability and longevity

Why GuitArt Resonates:

The form carries inherent symbolism—guitars represent music, creativity, performance, personal expression, and cultural history. Salvaging broken instruments from landfills and transforming them into visual art embodies themes of resurrection, transformation, and honoring the past while creating something new.

For musicians, GuitArt pieces trigger emotional responses that generic wall art cannot—they recognize the guitar shapes, remember learning to play, associate instruments with specific musical memories, and appreciate the reverence shown to objects that once made music even though they can no longer function acoustically.

For music lovers generally, GuitArt provides visual reminder of music’s importance in ways that concert posters or musician photographs don’t quite achieve. The three-dimensional quality, the tactile presence of an actual instrument, and the creative transformation all contribute to unique aesthetic impact.

ChrisAlex as Artist and Community Builder:

Reviews describe ChrisAlex as “very encouraging and supportive of young visual and performing artists,” someone who “really helps promote local musicians, artists, comedians, and poets,” and whose gallery maintains “welcoming environment for artists and musicians both.” This suggests ChrisAlex sees her role extending beyond creating and selling art to actively building creative community—providing platform, encouragement, and opportunity for others to develop and share their work.

The Interactive Gallery Experience

Music Art Love fundamentally rejects the “look but don’t touch” museum aesthetic that many galleries cultivate. Instead, it embraces radical interactivity:

Play the House Instruments:

Multiple musical instruments are available for visitors to play—not just look at behind glass or purchase, but actually pick up and make music with. This might include:

• Guitars (acoustic, possibly electric)
• Keyboards or small pianos
• Percussion instruments (drums, shakers, tambourines)
• Ukuleles
• Possibly other instruments like harmonicas, recorders, or small string instruments

This creates spontaneous musical moments—a visitor picking up a guitar and playing a few chords, a child experimenting with percussion, a musician trying an unfamiliar instrument. The sounds contribute to the gallery’s atmosphere, making it alive and dynamic rather than hushed and reverent.

Play Games:

Chess boards, trivia games, board games, and other interactive elements provide activities for visitors who want to linger without feeling obligated to continuously shop or view art. This accommodates:

• Couples or friends where one person loves browsing and the other gets antsy
• Families with children who need engagement beyond looking at art
• Solo visitors who enjoy playing games and meeting locals
• Anyone wanting to extend their visit and create social interaction

Bring Your Own Wine or Coffee:

The explicit invitation to bring beverages from “local establishments” (likely Stella & Me Cafe nearby, or local wine from area wineries) transforms shopping into social experience. Having a glass of wine or cup of coffee while browsing, playing instruments, or engaging in conversation creates relaxed atmosphere where time pressure evaporates and visitors feel welcome to stay as long as they wish.

Read Inspirational Books:

In-store books provide reading material for contemplative moments, offering visitors content that aligns with Music Art Love’s creative, positive ethos without requiring purchase to access.

The Kids’ Nook:

Dedicated space for children demonstrates family-friendliness and practical understanding that parents can’t fully enjoy browsing if they’re constantly worrying about keeping children entertained or preventing them from touching things. The kids’ nook allows families to visit together, with children occupied in age-appropriate activities while parents explore the gallery.

The Event Programming: “Legendary” Open Mics and Beyond

Music Art Love’s reputation rests significantly on its event programming, particularly the open mic nights that locals describe as “legendary.”

Open Mic Nights:

The open mic format welcomes “all creative expression”—musicians performing original songs or covers, poets reading their work, stand-up comedians testing material, spoken word artists, storytellers, and anyone with creative content to share. Reviews emphasize that the atmosphere is “supportive and encouraging” rather than judgmental or competitive.

This matters enormously. Many open mics develop toxic dynamics where experienced performers dominate, beginners feel intimidated, and audiences demonstrate impatience with anything less than professional-quality performance. Music Art Love’s open mics apparently avoid this trap, creating space where:

• First-time performers can try material without fear of harsh judgment
• Experienced artists support newcomers rather than viewing them as inferior
• Audiences listen appreciatively to varied skill levels and creative approaches
• The emphasis stays on shared creative experience rather than competition

The “legendary” descriptor suggests these events have become institution in Sainte Geneviève—anticipated, well-attended, and talked about as essential cultural experiences rather than optional entertainment.

Music Showcases:

Dedicated concerts featuring specific artists or groups, likely including both local musicians and touring acts. These differ from open mics in offering longer, more polished performances from established artists, creating opportunities for deeper musical engagement.

Trivia Nights:

Competitive team trivia appeals to different demographic than music performances, attracting people who enjoy intellectual challenge, social interaction, and friendly competition. The format typically involves teams answering questions across various categories, with prizes for winners.

Movie Nights:

ChrisAlex hosts film screenings with personal introductions and reviews—reviewer John notes that her “film showings, with personal introductions and reviews, make both old films and new films much more interesting and entertaining.” This curatorial approach transforms passive movie watching into educational cultural experience. ChrisAlex’s introductions likely provide context about directors, historical periods, artistic movements, or thematic significance that deepens appreciation.

The December “White Christmas” screening mentioned in reviews suggests both classic films and seasonal programming. Doors open at 6:30 for concessions, seating, and mingling, film starts promptly at 7:00, suggested donation $5, wear white or something festive for free popcorn—these details reveal thoughtful event planning creating communal viewing experience rather than just projecting a film.

Art Exhibits:

Rotating displays of work by various artists, providing exposure for creators and fresh visual content for repeat visitors. The exhibits likely feature local and regional artists, continuing ChrisAlex’s commitment to supporting creative community.

Classes:

Art classes, acting workshops, exercise classes (possibly yoga or dance), improv training, and speaker presentations expand Music Art Love’s educational function. These ongoing learning opportunities serve both skill development and community building—participants returning regularly, developing relationships, and creating cohort of creatively-engaged community members.

What Makes the Programming Work:

ChrisAlex’s background and personality enable the diverse event programming. She’s described as “amazing host,” “very welcome splash of culture to Sainte Genevieve,” and someone who creates “warm, welcoming place.” The programming succeeds because:

Consistent Quality – Regular events build audience trust and anticipation Variety – Different event types attract different demographics, expanding overall reach Welcoming Atmosphere – Supportive environment encourages participation rather than passive attendance Personal Touch – ChrisAlex’s introductions, curations, and hosting create intimate rather than corporate experience Community Focus – Events prioritize building connections over maximizing revenue

The Retail Side: Art, Décor, Clothes, Instruments, and Memorabilia

Beyond events and interactivity, Music Art Love functions as boutique selling diverse merchandise:

Art:

• ChrisAlex’s GuitArt pieces
• Work by other local and regional artists
• Possibly prints, photographs, or other visual media

Home Décor:

• Music-themed decorative items
• Unique accent pieces aligning with eclectic aesthetic
• Items sourced for artistic merit and distinctiveness

Fashion Wear:

• Clothing with artistic or musical themes
• Music Art Love branded tees and hoodies (available through online store)
• Unique apparel items unavailable in conventional stores

Musical Instruments:

• Instruments for sale (in addition to house instruments for playing)
• Likely guitars, ukuleles, percussion, possibly keyboards or other instruments
• Music memorabilia and accessories

Books and Souvenirs:

• Inspirational books available for reading in-store
• Music Art Love souvenirs and branded merchandise
• Other unique gift items

The “One-of-a-Kind” Philosophy:

The emphasis on unique items and eclectic selection reflects intentional curation rather than random accumulation. ChrisAlex sources items for distinctiveness, artistic merit, and alignment with Music Art Love’s creative ethos—things you won’t find at Target or Walmart, items with character and story.

The Airbnb: Music Art Home

Music Art Love operates an Airbnb apartment called Music Art Home located directly upstairs from the gallery. This allows visitors to “get the full Music Art Love experience” by staying above the creative space, potentially participating in evening events, and immersing themselves in Sainte Geneviève’s North Main Street Art and Entertainment District.

The proximity creates unique lodging experience:

• Walk downstairs to browse gallery or attend events
• No driving needed for Music Art Love programming
• Immersion in creative district atmosphere
• Supporting local business through accommodation spending

The North Main Street Art and Entertainment District

Music Art Love anchors Sainte Geneviève’s North Main Street Art and Entertainment District—the area where creative businesses cluster and 4th Friday Art Walk events concentrate. Other nearby establishments include EKlekTix (Jean Rissover’s gallery), Rust Artisan Shop, Only Child Originals, and Stella & Me Cafe.

The district creates critical mass of creative activity—visitors can spend hours walking between galleries, shops, and cafes, encountering artists working, attending performances, and discovering unique items impossible to find in conventional retail districts. Music Art Love’s event programming and interactive approach exemplify the district’s character—welcoming, creative, focused on experience over mere commerce.

Why Music Art Love Matters to Sainte Geneviève

Small towns struggle to retain young people and creative class. They need cultural attractions beyond historical sites to feel vital and contemporary. Music Art Love addresses this by:

Providing Performance Venue – Musicians, comedians, poets need places to perform. Without venues, they leave for cities offering opportunities.

Supporting Young Artists – ChrisAlex’s encouragement and support helps emerging artists develop confidence and community connections.

Creating Cultural Programming – Monthly events give residents reasons to gather, socialize, and engage with arts and culture locally rather than driving to St. Louis or Cape Girardeau.

Attracting Visitors – Music Art Love appears consistently in tourism marketing as “can’t miss attraction,” drawing cultural tourists who might otherwise visit only historic sites.

Building Community – Regular attendees at open mics, trivia nights, and classes form relationships, creating social fabric that strengthens community cohesion.

Practical Information

Location: 137 North Main Street, Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670

Hours:

• Wednesday-Friday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Saturday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• Sunday: 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
• Extended hours for special events (check Facebook for schedules)

Contact:

• Phone: 954-805-5992
• Facebook: Music Art Love
• Website: www.MusicArtLove.com

What to Experience:

Browse GuitArt – View and purchase ChrisAlex’s mixed media collages on salvaged guitars

Play House Instruments – Pick up guitars, keyboards, or other instruments and make music

Play Games – Chess, board games, trivia while relaxing with wine or coffee

Shop Eclectic Merchandise – Art, home décor, clothing, instruments, books, souvenirs

Attend Events – Open mics (welcoming all creative expression), music showcases, trivia nights, movie nights with personal introductions, art exhibits, classes

Meet ChrisAlex – Engage with owner/artist who creates welcoming environment for creativity

Kids’ Nook – Family-friendly space keeping children entertained while parents browse

Bring Beverages – Grab wine or coffee from nearby establishments and enjoy while visiting

Who Should Visit:

Musicians – Performers seeking supportive venue, instrument shoppers, anyone wanting to play house instruments

Open Mic Participants – Musicians, poets, comedians, spoken word artists, storytellers wanting welcoming performance opportunities

Art Collectors – People seeking unique GuitArt pieces or work by local artists

Families – Parents wanting art/music exposure for children in family-friendly environment

Game Players – Chess enthusiasts, trivia lovers, anyone enjoying interactive social activities

Culture Seekers – Visitors wanting authentic creative experiences beyond tourist attractions

Community Builders – Locals seeking connection, creative engagement, and cultural programming

Anyone Needing Welcome and Encouragement

Reviews repeatedly emphasize that Music Art Love creates “welcoming environment,” that ChrisAlex is “supportive and encouraging,” and that the space feels inclusive rather than exclusive. In a world where many galleries intimidate casual visitors and performance venues favor established artists, Music Art Love stands out by genuinely meaning it when signs say “everyone is welcome, and all are invited to participate.”

Visit Music Art Love at 137 North Main Street. Play the house instruments. Challenge someone to chess. Browse GuitArt. Attend an open mic. Bring wine from down the street. Meet ChrisAlex. And discover what happens when someone creates space prioritizing community and creativity over profit margins—where the measure of success isn’t sales figures but the number of people who leave feeling welcomed, encouraged, and inspired to create.

Wednesday-Friday 11 AM-3 PM, Saturday 10 AM-4 PM, Sunday 12 PM-3 PM. Call 954-805-5992 or check Facebook/website for event schedules. Where salvaged guitars become art, where house instruments wait to be played, and where legendary open mics welcome all creative expression in a gallery that refuses to be just a gallery.