Patriotic mural completed at IMAX lobby

If you’ve been inside the Branson IMAX Entertainment Complex during the past few weeks, you likely have noticed an artist at work in the lobby, painting a mural incorporating patriotic and significant scenes from American history. 

That artist is Raine Clotfelter, known as “America’s Muralist,” and the project, which he has been working on since March 23, is in honor of America’s 250th birthday. The artwork, now completed and will be available for the public to view through Memorial Day, is 16 feet long and 80 inches tall, and took approximately 270 hours to paint. 

“America’s Mural” incorporates patriotic symbols such as a bald eagle; poignant memorable moments in history such as General Washington at Valley Forge; Abraham Lincoln’s “With Malice Toward None;” the Betsy Ross flag; the transcontinental railroad’s “Golden Spike;” moon landings; salutes to veterans; and much, much more! 

The mural joins a long list of other artistic accomplishments for Clotfelter, a U.S. Navy Veteran, including numerous pieces for military publications as well as work for the entertainment industry and many businesses. Locally, his murals can be seen at several Branson museums; and the Freedom Silo near Monett, Missouri, has quickly become an Ozarks attraction. He has worked on over 170 detailed, hand-painted murals and gallery pieces.

Clotfelter describes his work as an effort to revitalize the nation’s citizens and communities by “capturing on canvas the unique individuals and historical events that have made this country what it is today.” When asked about his talent and ability, he replies that “it just takes a little faith.” He begins each day with coffee and Bible study, and his business cards attribute the work to “.1% my art and 99.9% ‘Thou Art.’” 

That said, many people have also pitched in to help make the project a success. Raine credits his agent, Keith Miller, for helping coordinate the opportunity; and his wife, Tricia, for countless hours of video editing and media posts; as well as the Bluto family for hosting the mural at the IMAX. He is also grateful to Spectrum Paint, and to the many supporters who have stopped by during the painting days to offer encouragement. 

A Meet & Greet with the artist is planned for Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, from approximately 1 to 3 p.m. Prints of the mural will be for sale then at the IMAX, and Clotfelter will sign them upon request. The next day, May 26, America’s Mural will leave the IMAX to be custom-framed, courtesy of UTC Hardwoods, in preparation for a tour in honor of the 250th. Details are still being finalized, but will include several state capitals and hopefully the U.S. Capitol, as well as some special celebrations and events. Mike Bennett with Eagle Trucking will be providing transportation for the mural to Washington, D.C., and UTC Hardwoods will also build a custom transportation crate. 

Visit the “Raine – America’s Muralist” page on Facebook to view some amazing videos of work in progress at the IMAX, along with comments about their significance, as well as other updates and events. A ribbon cutting and unveiling of the framed mural as it leaves on tour is planned for June 11 at 6:30 p.m., in the IMAX lobby. There is also a link available for those who would like to provide sponsorships to help make the tour happen. 

Plan your stop at the IMAX and check out this wonderful piece of art; you’ll be glad you did!