Springfield Mural Controversy
A mural honoring Robert E. Smith at Campbell and Walnut in Springfield, Missouri was covered up by a new building owner, prompting community backlash. The owner has addressed criticism, but the removal remains contentious, highlighting debates about public art preservation.
The covered mural was a tribute to the late Robert E. Smith, a nationally recognized folk artist who moved to Springfield in 1975. Known for his colorful and childlike scenes of the city, Smith was a beloved local figure. The mural, created by artists Ben Bunch and Ryan Thayer, was based on one of Smith's paintings and depicted various urban vignettes of Springfield. The building at 400 W. Walnut St. was purchased in October 2025 for $500,000 by David Pere, CEO of the financial advising company From Military to Millionaire (FMTM). Pere stated he was surprised by the intense social media response to the mural's removal. Pere said he consulted with the city before painting over the artwork and was told, "It's your building; you can do whatever you want." Since the property is not on a local historic register, it is not subject to review by the Landmarks Board for exterior changes. A new patriotic mural featuring a bald eagle has been commissioned for the space. The new piece is being created by an artist from Austin, Texas, for a reported $50,000 and is intended to honor veterans. The current tenant of the building, Loomi Candle Bar, has announced it will close at the end of April. The owner stated that they were not given the option to renew their lease after the building was sold. Pere's company, FMTM LLC, plans to occupy the space. The incident has sparked a community-wide conversation about the preservation of public art versus the rights of private property owners. In response to the backlash, the city of Springfield acknowledged the public's passion for art and the character of downtown while also respecting the rights and responsibilities of property owners.
