Meet the Artist
Questions and Answers for Kids |
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Chicago artist Thomas Melvin painted the City Science
Mural.
Here are some questions we asked him about the mural
and here's what he had to say.
At left, Thomas Melvin in his trademark red hat visits
the Nature Museum for an interview about the mural.
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Q: How did you decide what to
paint?
A: That's my gas meter (with the
forest in it) from home. I also used our old bathroom
faucet, which is from 1920. The tea kettle is from my
house too.
At right, the photo study Thom made of his teapot.
Can you find it in the mural?
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Q: How long did it take to paint the
mural? Did anyone help you?
A: Four of my artist friends helped me. It took six weeks
(about 40 days) to paint. |
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Q: How did you decide what to
put in the mural?
A: For me, the glass of water
was the starting point. Water is the essential element
of life for us . . . we need water (laughs).
At left, Thom points to the mural as he talks about
the glass of water.
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Q: What were you trying to say in the
mural?
A: The world is still a pretty place . . . let's keep
it that way.
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Q: If you were going to tell
kids about making art, what would you say?
A: First, start with a main idea,
school life or something. When you put two things together,
you can see how they might relate. It works when you
put it in a collage.
Q: Are you happy with your painting
(the mural)?
A: I think this project came out
nicely. I'm pleased with the color. It allows you to
sort of explore around in it.
At right, the grided copy of the mural Thom made
to guide his painting.
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Here's a picture of Thom at
work on a mural in his studio (Summer 2001).
Can you tell what kind of musical instrument Thom is
painting?
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Ask your parents or teacher
to look at these resources.
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