The Charleston Missouri Landmark Project

10/03/2026

Nice to see this article in the The Enterprise Courier 👍

09/30/2026

❤️ A NEW LANDMARK FOR CHARLESTON! ❤️

The winning design for Charleston’s new landmark has been selected!

“The Heart of the Heartland,” a kinetic sculpture by Swiss-American artist Ralfonso, will feature rotating heart-shaped forms that come together on the hour with a specially commissioned musical chime.

The landmark is being made possible through the generosity of Mary Moore Manley, who committed $500,000 to the project, with the site generously donated by Dr. Ron and Diane Petersen.

Located on Main Street and East Pecan Street, the landmark is expected to become a unique focal point for Charleston and a destination for visitors from across the Heartland.

Construction is anticipated to be completed in time for the 60th Dogwood Azalea Festival in April 2028. ❤️

We’re excited to watch “The Heart of the Heartland” take shape!
Head over to The Charleston Missouri Landmark Project page for all information!

09/30/2026

09/29/2026

The Heart of the Heartland !

Following a worldwide call-out for applications and the exhibition of proposals from six shortlisted artists, a winning proposal by Swiss-American artist Ralfonso has been selected. The mechanical sculpture is titled The Heart of the Heartland and combines a series of rotating heart-shaped forms which come together on the hour with a specially commissioned sound to accompany it. The engineering and construction is now underway, and our ambition is to realise the sculpture and landscaping in time for the 60th Dogwood Azalea Festival in April 2028.

Find out move at our website

06/30/2026

05/17/2026

Lovely article here about Mary and the Charleston Landmark Project by UK writer David Whetstone on his CulturedNorthEast channel:

Mary's act of philanthropy

04/20/2026

Warm thanks to the 700+ people who attended the exhibition of design proposals during the festival. We had so many positive conversations about the artists ideas and such a warm welcome.

The exhibition will now continue at 101 The Old Pharmacy until 17th May, Weds, Thurs, Fri 5-7pm and Sat and Sun 1-4pm.

04/19/2026

Lovely article in the Sikeston Standard Democrat about the Charleston Landmark Project and presentation by Mayor Jason Oliver and City Manager Greg Luehmann of a plaque of appreciation to Mary Manley for her generous support for the project. Thanks Thomas Davis

04/19/2026

If you are heading down for the Charleston Dogwood-Azalea Festival 5k Race today then call in to 101 the old Pharmacy on Main Street and vote for your favourite artists idea to create a landmark artwork for Charleston! We are open 10-4pm