Coolidge to get old painting in memory of artist
By Michael Heil
Staff Writer
Nathan McClain was an inspiring artist who died tragically in 1997.
He left behind friends and family in Granite City and a large painting.
Now, one of his closest friends, Kristopher Barks, plans to have the painting moved from what was the Ultimate Sports store in Nameoki Commons Shopping Center to Coolidge Middle School.
McClain painted the 8-foot by 16-foot sports illustration the year he died.
Barks said he and those who knew McClain want the painting to be placed at Coolidge as a remembrance to McClain and his artistic abilities.
McClain attended Coolidge and graduated from Granite City High School.
"He was a talented artist," said Barks, a childhood friend of McClain.
"There's been a tremendous effort to get the painting moved.
It's in a building that's going to be tore down as part of the redevelopment of the shopping center."
The cost to move the painting will come to $500.
Barks has been raising funds for the removal and expects the move to be made by early October.
Barks said the painting was originally planned to be moved to the gymnasium, but was too large and heavy for that area.
The painting, which has a football player as its focus, will be moved to the cafeteria instead.
It can't be moved from its current location at this time because it's too large to get throughout the entrance door.
Therefore, Barks and the school district will have to wait until the strip mall is demolished.
"A section will be knocked out of the store, allowing for the painting to be taken to Coolidge," Barks said.
Coolidge Principal Rick Talley said he welcomes the painting.
McClain attended Southwest Missouri State University, where he earned his fine arts degree.
He painted sports illustrations, originals and reproductions and was living in the St. Louis are at the time of his death.
More information on McClain can be found on the Internet at www.natemcclain.com.
This article was written regarding the
Ultimate Sports painting.
