Jackson Free Press

A maker of wooden toys and a children's book illustrator team up for a new exhibit at the Mississippi Library Commission (3881 Eastwood Drive, 601-432-4111).

Bill Bannister, the wooden toy maker, and Rick Anderson, a mixed-media artist, will exhibit some of their work during December at the commission offices. The opening reception for the artists is Dec. 8, beginning at 5 p.m.

Bannister, a member of the Mississippi Craftsmen Guild, makes old-fashioned pull-along grasshoppers and nostalgic car replicas. He makes his toys out of wood, and the unpainted pieces have a warm glow.

Anderson, a mixed-media artist, will exhibit some of his landscapes. A retired teacher, Anderson illustrates children's books and demonstrates his craft at schools. He won a mini-grant from the Mississippi Arts Commission earlier this year that helped him purchase art supplies to complete about a dozen projects.

The exhibit closes Dec. 28. These events are free and open to the public. For information, call 601-432-4111.