By Paige Orr, Fox23 News
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Oklahoma’s longest-running Native American art show is accepting applications through Feb. 27 for its 55th annual Trail of Tears Art Show, which runs April 11 through May 16 at the Gallery at Cherokee Springs Plaza in Tahlequah.
The juried show is open to citizens of any federally recognized tribe and features 12 categories including painting, pottery, jewelry, textiles, basketry, photography, digital art and more. Artists compete for more than $18,000 in prize money across over 40 awards, including first, second and third place in every category, honorable mentions and a best of show title.
A special Trail of Tears award is also given to the best piece with a removal or Trail of Tears theme.
Callie Chunestudy, cultural programs and events project manager, said the show is a strong opportunity for Native artists looking to get their work in front of a wider audience.
“This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase your work,” Chunestudy said. “Your work is up for an entire month in our gallery, visible to the public. We also put up an online gallery, so if you’re not in the area, you can shop the show from anywhere in the United States.”
An awards reception will be held the evening of April 10, the night before the show opens. The event is free and open to the public, giving attendees a chance to meet the artists and find out who won before the gallery opens the following morning.
The show and gallery are also free to attend throughout the run, and all artwork is available for purchase.
Artists interested in applying can find the online submission form and full rules and regulations at trailoftearsartshow.com.
