Buffalo sculpture installed outside Osage Casino Tulsa

By Fox23.com News Staff

TULSA, Okla. — Osage Casinos installed a new buffalo sculpture outside its Tulsa location, showcasing the work of Osage artist John Free and his family.

Standing 12 feet tall and 18 feet wide, the sculpture is the largest project Free has completed in his 36-year-career.

Free worked alongside his brother, Matt Free, and nephew, Cameron Free, to create the sculpture, which honors the buffalo’s significance in Native culture and heritage.

“We wanted this sculpture to be more than a landmark at our Tulsa property,” said Kimberly Pearson, CEO of Osage Casinos. “Supporting Osage artists and creating opportunities to showcase their work is important to us, and this project is one example of that commitment.”

Free’s work can also be found inside the casino, where one of his bronze sculptures is on display.

A second-generation Osage artist, Free learned his craft from his father, a well-known Osage sculpture and painter. Their family operated an art gallery in Pawhuska for more than 35-years, continuing a legacy of Osage artistry.

The sculpture took around two months to complete and is made of steel rod and sculpting mesh. Free says one of the most rewarding parts of his work is seeing people’s reactions.

The project was especially meaningful to him because it celebrates his own community.

“I’ve always been proud to be Osage, so having the opportunity to create this sculpture for my people means a great deal to me,” said Free. “Art has always been an important part of our culture and a way to express who we are. I hope it becomes something people enjoy every time they visit.”