Local artist Eric Bradford reflects on how PGA senior inspired him

The KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship was not only an exciting event for golf fans in Benton Harbor and around the world, but also served as an opportunity for local artists, including 1996 Benton Harbor graduate Eric Bradford.

Known for his stunning murals around Benton Harbor, including The Brick House Mural featuring The “Smash” Burger and Eddie Van Halen, titled “The History of Technology”, on the Ravitron Building, located at 276 Colfax Avenue, with whom he had the pleasure of recruiting and teaming up with another exceptionally skilled Benton Harbor artist, Jessica Hightower.

Bradford’s artistic adventure with Harbor Shores began in 2010, when he was commissioned to capture an essence of golf inside the former North Shore Inn, now the Hill District, in connection with the Champions for Change event, for the inauguration of the Harbor Shores golf course.

The success of his second mural, “The Putt,” depicting Jack Nicklaus’ legendary 100-foot putt at the 2010 Champions for Change event, paved the way for other art commissions, including the iconic portraits of the “Champions on Canvas” series. which now hang on the walls of the Harbor Shores Clubhouse. It was KitchenAid’s sponsorship that truly elevated Bradford’s artistry for the Senior PGA Championship at Benton Harbor.

The return of the championship to Harbor Shores for the sixth time has not only brought high-profile senior golfers to the Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course, but has also injected inspiration into the local arts scene.

Bradford’s portraits of past champions and memorable moments from the tournament have become an integral part of the clubhouse ambience, reflecting the spirit and enthusiasm of the event.

The KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship not only provided Bradford with opportunities for artistic expression, but also exposed him to the vibrant community of golf enthusiasts. Through his murals and portraits, Bradford captures the essence of the championship, preserving its legacy for generations to come.

“The great thing about championship golf is that it will be competitive and everyone can win. Of course, I hope there will be a new winner, so I have one more commission !” Bradford jokes. “Seriously, it would be exciting to see a result like (Steven) Stricker’s playoff hole in 2023, or to see Paul Broadhurst, Bernard Langer, maybe 2022 champion Steve Alker repeat as champion. It would be very special to see Colin Montgomerie could win his third here at Benton Harbor However, it would be great to see John Daly, Ernie Els, Vijay Singh or another PGA great win his first. exciting end to the final round of the KitchenAid Senior PGA Championship at Benton Harbor.

As Benton Harbor bids farewell to the Senior PGA Championship, Bradford hopes to leave behind one more masterpiece, capturing the essence of this historic event. Whatever the outcome, his art serves as a timeless tribute to the magic of championship golf and its lasting impact on the local art scene.

Visit the murals around Benton Harbor. Click here to visit Benton Harbor Arts Tour – Where will you go today? (bhartstour.org).