CAPE GIRARDEAU ARTIST OFFERS TALENTS WHENEVER CALLED

Artist Craig Thomas calls art his addiction, something he is compelled to do, whether anyone else views his work or not.

Beverly Strohmeyer, director of the Arts Council of Southeast Missouri, said the community can be thankful of Thomas' addiction. He offers his talents whenever called.

Thomas has painted murals at Washington and Franklin elementary schools. He is also well-known for his chalk installations. He reproduces Masters' paintings in chalk on sidewalks. "I guess I'm like the guy in Mary Poppins," said Thomas, who doesn't like much recognition for his work.

But he is ready to help whatever the cause. When asked to participate at Cape Girardeau's annual Riverfest as a working artist, Thomas jumped at the idea. "The first year I did a chalk installation because I wanted to try something different," he said. "It was very popular."

He has been a working artist at many other events since, including events in other communities. Last summer Thomas drew a life-size hot air balloon on the sidewalk for the annual Balloonfest, but unfortunately, rain washed away the work before many people saw it.

But it's not just his artistic talents that Thomas shares.

"Craig came and helped us when we moved into our new space," Strohmeyer said. "He and his wife helped put up ceiling tiles and lights and paint. He's always willing to work on whatever we need. He comes to all the exhibits. He's just a real great guy."

Jim Watkins, principal at Franklin Elementary School, agrees. Thomas has become a regular at the school, painting murals on the school's hallways.

Although Thomas did receive compensation for the work, Watkins said the money in no way covered the expense of putting up the murals.

"We think he's a great guy," Watkins said.