Vibrant Art Featured during Artesian Arts Festival

Crowds pour into downtown Sulphur May 25 for the sixth annual Artesian Arts Festival.

Published June 2, 2019

SULPHUR, Oklahoma — Thousands of art fans flocked to downtown Sulphur Saturday, May 25, to experience the sixth annual Artesian Arts Festival.

More than 125 elite artists, representing 11 states and 19 tribes took part in the sixth annual event.

A variety of vibrant art including photography, textiles and pottery, bead work, sculpture, jewelry, painting, and more was showcased in the downtown festival.

Best in Show was awarded to distinguished Navajo jeweler Jimmie Harrison, with his work “Giver of Life.”

Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby, left, presents the Artesian Arts Festival “Best in Show” medal to Jimmie Harrison’s son, Jeremy, during Friday’s artist reception at the Artesian Hotel.

Mr. Harrison, of Albuquerque, has participated in the Artesian Arts Festival for four years.

His work was selected by the Artesian Arts Festival’s juried competition.

Throughout the day, tribal dance demonstrations and live music from 7 bands entertained the crowds.

Tribal dance troupes included Chickasaw Nation Stomp Dance troupe, Magic Circle Entertainment, Pueblo Enchantment Dancers and Aztec Dancers.

“Giver of Life” by Navajo jeweler Jimmie Harrison, of Albuquerque, was named Artesian Arts Festival “Best in Show” Mr. Harrison.

An estimated 11,000 people attended the event, which is hosted by the Chickasaw Nation.

Established in 2014, The Artesian Arts Festival is conducted each Saturday of Memorial Day weekend.

For more information, visit Chickasaw.net/artesianfest.

The post Vibrant Art Featured during Artesian Arts Festival appeared first on Native News Online.