January 7, 2020 - The M.P. Baker Library of Panola College will host an exhibit of hand-turned wood creations beginning January 13, 2020 and ending Friday, January 28, 2020 in the Fay Allison Gallery of the M.P. Baker Library. An opening reception for the artist, Dr. Arnold Shrewsbury, will be held on Wednesday, January 15th at 2:00 p.m. in the Library.
Dr. Shrewsbury was born in Lenore, West Virginia on January 9, 1947. His education consists of a Bachelors of Theology, Masters of Theology, Masters of Divinity, and a Ph.D. in Theology. He has founded four churches, was a home missionary for nine years and a hospice chaplain for ten years.
Dr. Shrewsbury was married to author and fellow minister Janet Gail Gilman for almost 53 years until her death in February 2018. They have two children. Stephen of Sarasota, Florida and Kelly, who resides in Carthage. He also enjoys two grandchildren, Justin and Ashley Grace.
Following 50 years in ministry, 32 which were in the Carthage area, Dr. Shrewsbury has retired. He now has time to enjoy traveling, teaching the Bible, yard work and wood turning. He is a self-taught craftsman. The items he creates are varied with his favorite being bowls from exotic woods. He recently obtained wood from a tree in St. Augustine, Florida. The tree is known as “The Old Senator.” It is 600 years old and is located close to where Ponce de Leon is believed to have discovered the “Fountain of Youth.” A vast variety of hand-turned items will be on display including bowls, pens, vases, characters, a clock, and other imaginative works.
The exhibit is free and open to the public during the Library’s operating hours Monday – Thursday 7:30 am – 9:00 pm, Friday 7:30 am – 12:30 pm and Sunday 4-9pm. For additional information please call 903-693-2052 or email library@panola.edu.
By Dr. Arnold Shrewsbury
