John Bell Jr. (artist)

John Bell Jr.
Born
John Bell Jr.

(1937-10-04)October 4, 1937
DiedNovember 8, 2013(2013-11-08) (aged 76)
Fort Smith, Arkansas, United States
Occupation(s)Painter, sculptor
Years active1965–2013
WebsiteJohn Bell Jr

John Bell Jr. (October 4, 1937 – November 8, 2013) was an American painter and sculptor whose career spanned nearly fifty years.

Bell was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas on October 4, 1937, the son of Oklahoma-born parents John Sr. and Lillian L. Bell (née Sweeten). He graduated from Northside High School and University of Arkansas in 1965.[1]

In August 2013, Bell was diagnosed with stomach cancer. He subsequently died of the illness on November 8, 2013, aged 76, at his Fort Smith home. Bell was survived by his wife, Maxine, of fifty years, a daughter (born 1965), a granddaughter, and his brother.[2]

Legacy

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In 2022, the city of Fort Smith, Arkansas approved the naming of a new park along Riverfront Drive after the late artist.[3] John Bell Jr. Park will be 51 acres and include soccer fields, an inclusive playground, and options for future expansion.[4]

References

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  1. ^ "About The Artist". John Bell Jr. Gallery. Archived from the original on 2020-01-30.
  2. ^ "Acclaimed artist John Bell Jr. has died (Updated)". Archived from the original on 2013-12-02. Retrieved 2013-11-23.
  3. ^ "Fort Smith Directors approve John Bell Jr. Park, flood warning system". Talk Business & Politics. 2022-01-19. Retrieved 2022-01-19.
  4. ^ "Commission moves forward on naming new Fort Smith park after John Bell Jr". 5newsonline.com. January 12, 2022. Retrieved 2022-01-19.