"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Indian Artists Sought for Holiday Art Show

TAHLEQUAH, OK - Whether visitors are interested in paintings, jewelry or more traditional arts, the Second Annual Cherokee National Holiday Art Show will provide a cool retreat to enjoy the best work from a wide array of Indian artists. The Holiday Art Show will be held Thursday, August 30 through Saturday, September 1, at the Tahlequah Armory Municipal Center. The awards reception will take place on Friday, August 31, at 6 p.m. at the armory, located at 100 N. Water, in Tahlequah.

The art show is held in conjunction with the 55th Annual Cherokee National Holiday.

“If you are looking for a great piece of Native American Indian art, this will be the place to find it,” said Travis Owens, event coordinator. “This event was a huge success last year, and we expect it to be just as popular this year. It’s a great place for artists to showcase their work and a great way for art lovers to add to their collection. Another incentive for artists to submit their work is that this year’s prize monies total $10,000.”

Authentic American Indian art from across the country will be featured and available to the public for purchase. Nationally recognized artists will display their entries in categories that include jewelry, pottery, paintings, graphics, sculpture, basketry, textiles, and weavings, and diverse arts. There will be something for every level of Indian art collector.

The Cherokee National Holiday has been held since 1953 in tribute of the signing of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution. It has grown into one of the largest events in Oklahoma, attracting more than 90,000 visitors from across the world.

This year’s theme is “Common Values, Common Ground,” in commemoration of the 169 years of rich history the Cherokee Nation has in what is now Oklahoma, and the 100th anniversary of Oklahoma’s statehood.

“This theme is a tribute to the partnership that exists between the Cherokee Nation and the great state of Oklahoma.” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “Throughout the years we have worked together to create better and stronger communities all over the state. This year’s theme of ‘Common Values, Common Ground’ reiterates the importance of the continuation of this relationship for the betterment of Cherokee citizens and our Oklahoma neighbors. In our partnerships with the state and community organizations all across Oklahoma we can help to create a better Oklahoma for everyone.”

For more information contact Travis Owens at (918) 453-5728. Entry packets are available in Room 112 of the old motel office complex behind the Restaurant of the Cherokees at the Cherokee Nation tribal complex, or can be requested by phone. Artists must be a citizen of a federally-recognized tribe. Entries must be received by August 14, 2007.