We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful David Spear. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with David below.
David, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
I’ve been fortunate to work on many meaningful projects throughout my career, but one that stands out is the 250-foot by 25-foot mural I painted on three exterior walls of the Ozark Natural and Cultural Resource Center (ONCRC) in Salem, Missouri, a town with fewer than 5,000 residents. This mural was designed to honor Salem’s heritage as the Northern gateway to the Current River and Ozark National Scenic Riverways.
The project began with a year of planning and culminated in months of on-site work. I collaborated closely with ONCRC board members, volunteers, and conservation leaders to brainstorm and refine a concept that would integrate the story of the Current River with local landmarks, activities, and wildlife.
I relocated to Salem for over two months, staying with a local family. I painted from sunrise to sunset, navigating around the building like a giant sundial to avoid the sun’s heat on the walls. In the evenings, I focused on creating paintings that would later become perforated vinyl graphics for the building’s windows.
Initially, the project faced challenges. Starting with a doodle grid that resembled chaotic graffiti upset many in the small community. However, as the mural took shape and familiar scenes emerged, excitement grew. I was told I even became a topic in a local sermon, cited as an example of not judging a book by its cover.
As I continued working, I forged friendships with ONCRC volunteers, engaged with community members driving by to see updates, and gained a deeper understanding of Salem’s unique spirit. The mural, often described as a rarity for Salem, has become a source of community pride, symbolizing shared culture and natural beauty.
For me, this project reaffirms the profound impact art can have on a community. Subsequent visits have shown me firsthand how the mural continues to resonate positively. I am currently designing a new sign and interior exhibit concepts for ONCRC, reflecting their ongoing commitment to celebrating local heritage.
The mural at ONCRC is especially meaningful to me as a testament to the transformative power of art, fostering connection and pride within a community.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
My name is David Spear, and I’ve been a visual artist all my life. Based in Columbia, Missouri, I’m best known for my large public paintings, murals, and various artworks across the region.
What sets me apart from other artists is not only my extensive experience and wide-ranging portfolio but also my ability to collaborate with others in a fun and friendly manner, fueled by a profound love for art and art history.
I take great pride in the enduring presence of my work over the past 30 years, which can still be seen throughout my community and region in hospitals, schools, bus stations, restaurants, businesses, and public murals. Beyond creating art, I’m passionate about fostering a vibrant creative community. I actively contribute to nonprofit art organizations and charities, and currently serve as the chair of the Office of Cultural Affairs Committee.
In addition to my commissions, I also serve as a part-time exhibit designer for the Missouri Department of Conservation. This role allows me to contribute to projects across our sites and nature centers, educating visitors about Missouri’s conservation efforts.
My dedication to art in all its forms fuels my drive to create meaningful work and support the arts community, enriching our lives and culture.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
I’ve always been a perpetual pivoter. My undergraduate degree in Fine Arts was a ‘general’ one, covering everything from graphic design to painting, thanks to which I practically had four minors. This diverse skill set has been invaluable in navigating my career as an artist, where I have found adaptation is essential.
In St. Louis, I gained recognition for my musically inspired abstract artwork. Upon moving to Columbia, Missouri, I shifted towards New Regionalism, feeling the need for change. Later, graduate school pushed me to explore even further, expanding into paintings, sculptures, film, and performance.
Throughout, I’ve balanced commissioned works with various side gigs—from waiting tables and bartending to university teaching and now as an exhibit designer for the Missouri Department of Conservation. As an exhibit designer, I constantly pivot, creating everything from digital touch screens to giant airbrushed frogs, all aimed at promoting wildlife conservation.
These diverse experiences have profoundly influenced my freelance work, allowing me to tackle a wide array of commissions. Despite being known primarily for my paintings and murals, my work at the Columbia Sports Fieldhouse marked a significant departure. Here, I embraced sculptural techniques using vectored PVC board, airbrushing, and integrating plexiglass graphics with LED lighting—a leap I wouldn’t have dared without decades of constant adaptation.
For me, pivoting isn’t just necessary; it’s enriching. It keeps art vibrant, dynamic, and ever-evolving.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on NFTs. (Note: this is for education/entertainment purposes only, readers should not construe this as advice)
I have some Beanie Babies, a complete Topps 1987 baseball card set, and a rare variety of tulip that you might want to consider purchasing.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.alleywayarts.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spearpainter/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Spearpainter/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-spear-3698aa3b/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@davidspear9761
Image Credits
Portrait of David Spear in front of Blind Boone mural by Stephen Bybee