Birthday presentation celebrates treasure created for Joplin 50 years ago
Thomas Hart Benton was world renowned for his painting and murals, and Joplin provided the bookends for his artistic life. Local historian Brad Bel...
Thomas Hart Benton was world renowned for his painting and murals, and Joplin provided the bookends for his artistic life. Local historian Brad Belk made a presentation on Joplin's 150th birthday on Thursday talking about Benton, his life in Joplin, and the creation of the mural displayed in Joplin City Hall, which was dedicated March 23, 1973, the city's 100th birthday. 'Thomas Hart Benton's artistic ability to interpret and illustrate realistic lifestyles and culture endeared him to average Americans,' Belk said.