Dr. Leo Twiggs, far left, and Arthur Rose Museum Director Herman Keith hang artwork to be featured in Twiggs’ upcoming exhibit at Claflin University.

By Charlene D. Slaughter

Claflin University Museum Director Herman Keith says featuring Dr. Leo Twiggs’ exhibit in the Arthur Rose Museum is a “divine order.”

Dr. Twiggs exhibit, “A Claflin Homecoming: The Art of Leo Twiggs,” will open Thursday, Sept. 27, and run through Nov. 19. It is his first exhibit in Orangeburg in 30 years.

The two met years ago at the University of Georgia, where Dr. Twiggs was the first black person to obtain a doctorate in art education. Dr. Twiggs was a mentor for Keith as well, who soon joined him to work at South Carolina State.

After Dr. Twiggs retired, Keith said he had settled on returning to his hometown of Anderson, but Twiggs interjected.

“He said, ‘I think they need you over at Claflin,’ and recommended me to Dr. (Henry N.) Tisdale,” Keith said. “I’ve been here almost 10 years. Now we’re in process of bringing Dr. Twiggs’ work here.”

Keith was the former chair of the art department at Claflin before being named director of the Arthur Rose Museum. Arthur Rose was a mentor to both men.

“Now, I’ve come full circle,” Keith said. “I believe it is divine order for Dr. Leo Twiggs to come here at this time. I’m so excited.”

Keith attended the recent meeting of the South Carolina Arts Alliance where Twiggs received the prestigious Scottie Award, recognizing his role in the growth and development of the arts in South Carolina and beyond. He said he spread the word about the upcoming Twiggs exhibit here and received a positive response.

“They’ll come from all over,” Keith said. “I attended the Scottie engagement in Newberry. We told the guests about the exhibit and they all said they will try to come. We’re still working really hard, down to the last minute.”

The exhibit can be seen Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Private tours are also available by calling Keith at the Arthur Rose Museum at 803-535-5324.