ROSE, Okla. — Get a look into the art and influences of a Cherokee National Treasure, award-winning artist and Cherokee first-language speaker at a new exhibit featured at the Saline Courthouse Museum.
“Harry Oosahwee: Tending the Flame” opens to the public Sept. 17 and runs through Jan. 11, 2025.
Language, art and culture are all deeply intertwined for Oosahwee, and he has dedicated a lot of his time to teaching all three at various institutions in hopes of creating a lasting impact in future generations.
“The impact Harry has had on the preservation and promotion of Cherokee culture throughout his life is something that will continue to be realized for many generations,” said Karen Shade-Lanier, Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism exhibits manager. “He understands that art is an essential tool for telling the Cherokee story. Harry is a Cherokee National Treasure for sculpture, so we’ve emphasized this for his exhibit.”
Oosahwee’s expertise spans many mediums, including sculptures, paintings, carvings and more. The exhibit explores key influences throughout his life, from watching his mother model native clay to painting under the auspices of Bacone College’s Flatstyle school of art. The exhibit will also include several pieces of artwork by Oosahwee available for sale to the public.
The Saline Courthouse is the last of nine district courthouses built in the 1800s by the Cherokee Nation. After years of ongoing work to restore, preserve and modernize the structure, Cherokee Nation reopened the site in August 2020 as a cultural museum. The museum features historical and cultural exhibits relevant to the area and showcases different Cherokee artists throughout the year. It is located at 55870 S. 490 Road in Rose and open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
For more information on Cherokee Nation cultural sites and exhibits, please go to www.VisitCherokeeNation.com.