Local artist donates special wood carving...

William Gray, a local artist, presented two wooden carvings of a Braves head to the Kirbyville R-VI school board at the February board meeting. The statues were created from a white pine planted on the grounds of Kirbyville Elementary in memory of former Kirbyville student, Rene Smith, in 1995.  One of the sculptures will be presented to her family and the other will be on display in the school district.

The tree succumbed to its natural life expectancy and a disease known as White Pine Decline last school year. After consulting with a Missouri conservation agent, the district learned that the tree would have to come down. To provide a continued remembrance, a pink dogwood, native to Missouri, was planted in its place.

However, the memorial tree contained two final gifts. Portions of the tree were reserved and the pieces were placed in Gray’s creative hands. Through his artistry and vision, the Kirbyville mascot was revealed.

Gray explained, “I start with a master idea of the final piece, but the grain of the wood or flaws can dictate how the final product looks. I try to use the flaws in the wood to make the piece unique or give it character.”

White pine is not a typical medium for carving, but because of the significance of the tree, Gray was willing to give it a try.  He found that the material was fairly easy to work with even though it splintered some. He was able to work with this characteristic to enhance the final product. He also found that there was a lot of sap in the wood, creating another challenge.

“I try not to look at the negative characteristics of the material, but how I can work with it,” he added.

Gray, who has two children who currently attend Kirbyville Elementary, stated, “It was gratifying. I was given a gift and I want to use it to benefit others to give back. Even though I don’t know the family personally, we are all part of the community and we are all connected. I can empathize with the family’s loss and the value of the sculpture. I was honored to have the opportunity to be a part of this.”

Carless Osbourn, superintendent, said, “The district is extremely honored to receive these magnificent and beautiful sculptures that have significant meaning in the Kirbyville School District and community.  Words can not express our sincerest gratitude and thanks to Mr. Gray for these gifts.”