New Book Showcases Mississippi Sculptor Samuel Gore

"Blessed With Tired Hands"

“Blessed With Tired Hands” is the title of the new book by photographer Barbara Gauntt spotlighting extraordinary sculptor and painter Samuel Marshall Gore.

A beloved art professor for more than six decades at Mississippi College, Dr. Gore has many admirers all over the globe. The book by the University Press of Mississippi captures the amazing life and thought-provoking works of this splendid Christian artist.

Born the son of a Baptist preacher in Texas in 1927, the slow-talking Clinton resident remains a humble man who says, “I’m still learning,” from his craft.

Just in time for Christmas, fans of the internationally celebrated artist can pre-order the book. Filled with Gauntt’s beautiful photographs of Gore’s works, the book will be published by August 2015. An award-winning former “Clarion-Ledger” photographer, the New Jersey native became fascinated with the Mississippian following an assignment from the state’s biggest newspaper.

“It all started because I was amazed by Dr. Gore and his work,” says Gauntt, a Mississippi College photography instructor. “I saw him as an absolute treasure, a gift from God, a man of faith giving back by sharing his talent with which he was blessed.”

One of Gore’s former Mississippi College students, renowned artist Wyatt Waters of Clinton penned the book’s introduction.

Gore fans eagerly look forward to seeing the new book roll off the presses in the new year. It’s a fitting tribute to a remarkable man, they say.

“Dr. Gore is an extraordinary artist and Christian gentleman,” says Ron Howard, vice president for academic affairs at the Baptist-affiliated university. “He’s a superb teacher with student disciples from all over. He’s MC’s own national treasure.”

At age 87, Sam Gore continues to go strong. The 1952 MC alumnus keeps churning out wonderful pieces of art. And he continues to teach an evening class on the Clinton campus. He’s a goodwill ambassador for Mississippi College year-round.

“He’s got a passion for his art,” Howard says.

Art patrons who can’t wait for “Blessed With Tired Hands” to hit area bookstores should stop by Mississippi College.

Gore’s “Servant Savior” sculpture on the Clinton campus near Provine Chapel depicts Jesus and His disciples. At the MC School of Law, his massive sculpture of Moses and the Ten Commandments clings to an exterior wall on the downtown Jackson campus. It’s been seen by visitors from around the world.

To pre-order a copy of “Blessed With Tired Hands,” go to mc.edu/gore.