Use this search box to find articles that have run in our newspapers over the last several years.
Date: 7/13/2021
WEST SPRINGFIELD– John Matlock, a local artist and West Springfield resident recently completed a mural at Alice Corson Park located at 373 Main St. The sizable portrayal of fish spans the entire park side of the building.
Mayor William Reichelt said Matlock completed this project in only a few short weeks.
Reichelt went on to explain, Matlock’s project “came to life” through the support of sponsors including Red Thread Network for the Arts, West Springfield Arts Council, Florence Bank, V & F Auto, Powers Law Group, Teddy Bear Pools, Kelley Katzer Real Estate, LLC, John and Patricia Kendzierski, and Pintu’s Indian Palace.
Sponsor Jane Barrientos of the Red Thread Network said this is the second mural of Matlock’s that they have supported. The first mural was done at Memorial Pool, located at 51 Smyrna St. The Memorial Pool mural has a similar style, as it’s an under-the-sea theme as well.
According to information provided by the mayor, marine life is often the subject of Matlock’s work, and with this mural, he was able to explore the genre on a larger scale.
Barrientos said that Matlock approached the Parks and Rec about creating a mural, however he needed funding. The Red Thread Network typically sponsors classes for children and hosts fundraisers such as the Yuletree Jubilee, but due to the pandemic last year, they were unable to do so.
With the loss of these annual events, Red Thread Network had additional funding. After sponsoring Matlock’s first mural, the opportunity presented itself once more. “Florence Bank approached us and said we have funding, so we said ‘let’s do another mural,’” stated Barrientos.
Now that Matlock’s second masterpiece is completed, Barrientos said when you drive down Main Street, the “intense colors” are captivating.
She claimed that Matlock has already been asked to create more murals, such as for the Boys and Girls Club.
Barrientos is excited to see the town build on something so beautiful, such as art. She believes it’s something the community needs.
According to Reichelt, Matlock has been “overjoyed” to bring and celebrate art in the community that he calls home.
Reminder Publishing reached out to John Matlock for comment, however there was no response as of press time.