Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

TAHLEQUAH, OK - Cherokee sculptor Eddie Morrison is the winner of the 2001 Cherokee Heritage Pottery's Christmas Ornament Contest. Morrison’s Christmas ornament is entitled "Strength of Life."

One side of the "Strength of Life" ornament has the Cherokee "seven pointed star" around the circle of life, which has the four directions in the center. Flowing from the circle is the whirlwind symbol. This symbol is found in the ancient mound builders designs and is used in ancient Cherokee stories. The other side has a star, which symbolizes the One for whom Christmas is celebrated. This ornament, all together, represents "Strength of Life."

Eddie Morrison specializes in creating three-dimensional works from wood, stone and bronze. His contemporary, traditional style also incorporates relief-carved images, which gives his work multiple layers of visual interest and meaning. Morrison has received numerous awards for his work.

"Besides my own feelings and interpretations, my ideas and themes come from the philosophies of Indians about life, spirituality, respect for life, animals and all that is around us, and the Great Creator", Morrison said. Morrison's artwork is available at the Cherokee Heritage Center Museum Shop.

Each year a new ornament will be selected from designs submitted by our Cherokee artists. This ornament is a limited edition and will only be produced for the 2001 Christmas season.

A contest is currently underway for the 2002 Christmas ornament. The deadline for entry is December 15, 2001. The original work must be made of clay and submitted in moist state (no dryer than leather hard). The original work must reflect some aspect of Cherokee history or culture. The original work may be flat or hollow. The ornament can be no larger than 4"x 4" x 4". Each artist may submit 2 designs.

For more information on the 2002 Christmas ornament contest, call 918-456-6007.