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New Mural Tells Clinton Story


Mississippi College art professor Albert Smathers speaks at the dedication of a mural adding beauty to a Clinton business district.

Breaking the law in Mississippi, a motorist drives a classic Chevy car in the middle of the road as an alert police officer prepares to give chase.

That’s the scene depicted in a new mural that beautifies a Clinton business district.

Clinton civic leaders joined Mississippi College educators and students to dedicate the mural on the wall of Cook’s Pest Control.

In the mural’s background, a Clinton police officer flashes blue lights on his squad car and is set to track down the driver. Meanwhile, a young girl rides her bike and looks on as a cat darts across the intersection.

MC art professor Albert Smathers painted the timeless scene late last year with assistance from his students on the Clinton campus. The Raymond, Mississippi artist sees the positive side to the creative work.

“This is to acknowledge that the Clinton Police Department has a good reputation for upholding the laws and protecting citizens as they are obligated to,” Smathers told the audience at dedication ceremonies on March 18.

The crowd of leaders from such groups as Main Street Clinton, the Clinton Chamber of Commerce and City of Clinton attended to thank Smathers and the MC Art Department students for their hard work.

The mural at this juncture of old Highway 80, now known as College Street, also carries a message. Easily spotted by passing motorists, it speaks to the strong partnership between Mississippi College and its hometown of Clinton.

Dating back to MC’s birth in 1826, that town-gown relationship is growing in the early 21st Century, say leaders at the 5,000-student Baptist-affiliated university.

“We want to keep working with the community and college to promote education,” says Jim Turcotte, the Mississippi College vice president for enrollment management and dean of students. The colorful mural, he said, “is a great addition to town.”

MC students including Mary Rogers of Ocean Springs, Chris Harsch of New Orleans and Josh Taylor helped Smathers with the art project in Clinton. Art Department Chairman Randy Miley suggested that the professor use the project as an assignment for his painting class.