Copyright © 2004 NLThomas
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Park Hill, Oklahoma - Native American artistry has been passed down for many years, each generation improving upon what they were taught and adding their own distinct touches. From basketry to painting, each artist attempts to encompass tradition while adding a piece of themselves to their work. On Feb. 1, both the old and the new will join together in the Cherokee Heritage Center’s new exhibit, "Artists Showcase."

This exhibit, which will be displayed through April 20, will showcase the artistry of numerous individuals highlighting an array of works from traditional to contemporary. Art lovers are encouraged to attend the opening of this exhibit to see and purchase the works of Peggy Brennan, Tom Fields, Yatika Fields, Tonia Hogner-Weavel, Sharon Irla, Jerry Kykisz, America Meredith, Ed Rackleff, Kevin Smith and P J Gilliam Stewart. Guests can also hear the musical talents of the 2002 NAMA Flutist of the Year, Tommy Wildcat, from 2 to 5 p.m.

This show offers something new and surprising to Native art making. It is a show designed to rediscover a lost art form, refine an existing one and bring a modern twist to something traditional.

Visitors of this exhibit will have the opportunity to take home a piece of Cherokee heritage through the purchase of the displayed items. Purchased items must remain on display for the duration of the exhibit.

This new exhibit will be open from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday and from 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday. For more information please call 918-456-6007, toll free, 888-999-6007, and/or visit the CHC web site.

Related contact information:

Mike Miller, Cherokee Nation Director of Communications Phone: 918-456-0671 (ext.2210) Fax: 918-458-5580 E-mail: Communications@cherokee.org Larry Daugherty, Advertising Manager Cherokee Nation - Public Affairs Phone 918-456-0671 (Ex.2324) E-mail: ldaugherty@cherokee.org

Steven Swogger, Agriculture Liaison Natural Resources Department Phone: 918-456-0671 (ext.2546) FAX: 918-458-7673 E-mail: sswogger@cherokee.org Bradley D. Peak, Cherokee Nation Natural Resources Specialist Phone: 918-456-0671 (ex.2843) E-mail: bpeak@cherokee.org