Hey Memphis!
With the current social climate, Stock&Belle has been very vocal and active with our stance regarding #BlackLivesMatter. Our stance- We believe in the economic, social and political equity for all, especially for those who continue to be oppressed across the many systems that thrive off those being oppressed. We stand in solidarity with our Black friends, coworkers and peers, and we are excited to partner up with others that agree & want to continue bringing awareness to this issue.
Stock&Belle sat down with Creative Director of Disciple Design, Craig Thompson, for a quick chat to get a little more info about the man behind these inspiring chalk creations. Craig recently created the “We’re Better Together” chalk mural that can be found outside our storefront, located at 387 South Main Street.
Who is Craig Thompson and what do you do?
Native Memphian. Graphic Designer and owner of Disciple Design.
What is the mission of Disciple Design?
Our mission at Disciple Design is to help non-profits and faith-based businesses accomplish their mission through unique design and creative services.
What services are offered by Disciple Design?
Graphic Design, web design & programming, illustration, documentary photography. videography and animation.
What inspired the "We're Better Together" mural?
The inspiration was to try to do something positive in regards to race relations, and to continue the dialogue. This is a themed series I have been doing downtown using hand symbols for positive, scripture based messages. I have also been doing murals addressing the pandemic in other parts of the city.
What do you aim to say with "We're Better Together"?
The message is that none of our issues will really be solved until we realize that all of us together are better than any of us individually - or separate groups. The whole is greater than the parts.
Why did you choose chalk?
Chalk kind of chose me. When the pandemic started I was looking for something to do to contribute positively in some way and drawing is one thing I have always done. I started seeing kids stuff around the neighborhood and thought that might be fun to see how far I could push the medium. The more I did the more I increased the scale and scope of the drawings. The largest so far was a 50 foot slinky done on the asphalt in a cove to encourage "social distancing".
What do you love most about Memphis?
I love the authenticity of Memphis. We are who we are. And the music, of course.
What are two fun facts about you?
Fun facts: still playing softball at age 59, and I have 5 beautiful grandchildren.
Describe a perfect day in Memphis?
Morning paddleboarding at Shelby Farms, lunch at Belly Acres, Sunset Symphony on the river.
Anything else you'd like to mention that I didn't ask?
I just hope these chalk murals have been a lift to some folks and helped them stay positive or at least be distracted for a few moments.
Well Memphis, that wraps up our chalk chat with Craig Thompson. Be on the lookout for Craig’s chalk work across the city and snap a selfie or two, you know we love a good mural!
