2009 BX Craftsmanship
Award Recipient

Foresight, attention to detail and a steady hand helped John Stamper complete the decorative interior painting at the newly renovated Lincoln Theater.

Stamper led a crew of 15 to complete hundreds of hours of hand painting and stenciling throughout the audience chamber.  The work is displayed on four large columns near the stage, four smaller columns at the back of the theater, on the ceiling, along the proscenium arch and next to the main entrance to the hall.

Prior to picking up a paintbrush, Stamper took great care to develop a flawless layout for the project.  Matching the pattern on the columns required ongoing mathematical calculations to allow for the tapered structure.

The ceiling created a similar challenge as the coffers were different sizes in order to allow for stage lights and other theater equipment.

Built in 1928, the theater had been empty since the 1970’s.  Stamper reviewed many historical photographs in order to duplicate the original Egyptian design.

Stamper has been a painter for 24 years.  He has worked for Martin Painting & Coating Co. for the past six years.

Stamper is a first-time Craftsmanship Award winner.  He started his painting career working for his father-in-law on residential projects.

Updated 10/8/2009