The project is written and directed by Jesse Stephen Freeman for Milk Crate Films and is the second film from Freeman to debut on GPB. His documentary Somebody Else, Somewhere Else: The Raymond Andrews Story, was nominated for an Emmy after it aired on GPB in 2010.

Freeman says, “It always made sense for this film to air on GPB. Whether people recognize it or not, Steffen Thomas is foundational to the Atlanta art community that exists today. He was a character. He exemplified what it means to be a working artist in this region. But most importantly, he created some beautiful, timeless art.”

Freeman worked closely with Lisa Thomas Conner, the youngest daughter of Steffen and Sara Thomas, and founding director of Steffen Thomas Museum of Art near Madison, Georgia. He had access not only to her personal knowledge and memories of the artist, but also to the extensive art collection and archives held at the museum. Thanks to Sara’s efforts and dedication to the art and legacy of Steffen Thomas, a treasure trove of materials including the artist’s tools, journals and poetry, newspaper clippings, hundreds of archival images, 8mm film reels, and more, are preserved and were made available for the film production.

Conner shared her thoughts on the release of the film: “My father lived his life with verve and passion, and left us the huge gift of his expressionist art, through which he communicated his many ideas and feelings, ranging from humor to pathos. Steffen Thomas: Rock & Chisel is the culmination of a five-year collaboration with Jesse Freeman, whose skill, insight and perseverance brought the essence of the artist to life in this inspired film.”

Steffen Thomas: Rock & Chisel features an original score written by David Kirkland Garner and performed by Phillip Bush (piano) and Claire Bryant (cello). This uniquely emotive soundtrack, Eight Songs for Steffen Thomas, will be available from Sourwood Records. Michael Bruno is the film’s Director of Photography. It was edited by Will Eccleston for Kinetiscape Media.