SULPHUR, Oklahoma — Vibrant Native American art, diverse music, family fun and delicious fare drew a large crowd to the Artesian Arts Festival, Saturday, May 26.
More than 100 elite artists, representing 9 states throughout the U.S. took part in the fifth annual event.
A variety of visual art such as jewelry, sculpture, painting, basketry, metalworking, bead work, photography, textiles and pottery was featured in a six-block area of downtown.
The Artesian Arts Festival offers a juried competition with awards, and a marketplace where artists can display and sell their works.
Best in Show was awarded to Cherokee artist Troy Jackson, with the sculpture “Adapolisdi” which means prayer in the Cherokee language.
Mr. Jackson, of Tahlequah,Oklahoma, has participated in the Artesian Arts Festival for 4 years.
Tribal dance demonstrations from five Native American Dance troupes, including Chickasaw Nation Stomp Dance troupe, the Pueblo Enchantment Dancers and Oklahoma Fancy Dancers dazzled the crowd.
Music was provided by 10 bands and musicians throughout the day.
It is estimated more than 7,000 people attended the event, which is hosted by the Chickasaw Nation.
Since its inaugural year in 2014, the Artesian Arts Festival is conducted each Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.
For more information, visit Chickasaw.net/artesianfest.
