"the People's Paths!" Cherokee News Path - Cherokee National Treasure Award

TAHLEQUAH, OK — In conjunction with the 55th Cherokee National Holiday the Cherokee Nation is accepting nominations for the 2007 Cherokee National Treasure Awards.

“The Cherokee Nation recognizes the contributions that artists and historians make to the continued existence and preservation of Cherokee art forms,” said Chad Smith, Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation. “This award is just one way that our Cherokee citizens and the Cherokee Nation can honor these men and women for their knowledge and dedication to Cherokee culture.”

The Cherokee National Treasure Award recognizes Cherokee men and women who have exceptional knowledge of Cherokee art forms, such as basketry, bow-making, wood and stone carving, gig making and flint knapping to name a few. In order to recognize the many talented individuals among the Cherokee people, the Cherokee National Treasure Committee has expanded the categories to include language, graphic arts, contemporary arts and music.

“The Cherokee National Treasure Award should be considered as one of the highest forms of recognition and honor that the Cherokee Nation can bestow upon an individual,” said Sam Watts-Scott, event coordinator. “This award pays tribute and honor to our Cherokee ancestors, recognizes cultural art forms and ensure our Cherokee identity.”

The designation of Cherokee men and women as a Master Craftsperson developed in 1988 as a result of the Lost Arts Project. The mission that created the project remains today for the preservation and revival of Cherokee cultural practices that could be lost in the passage from one generation to another.

The project and Cherokee National Treasure Award is concerned with capturing the knowledge, techniques, individual commitment and heritage received from Cherokee artisans toward the development of educational and cultural preservation programs.

Nomination forms are available on the Cherokee First link. Submit form along with a biography of artist, photo of artist and their work to: Cherokee First/National Treasures, ATTN: Sandy Long, P.O. Box 948, Tahlequah, OK 74465. Deadline for submission is Saturday, June 30 at 5 p.m. The selected artist will be required to submit a work of art for permanent display.

For more information contact Sam Watts-Scott, phone: 918-316-3910 or 918-696-4985.