OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City now has a new art and cultural experience for the thousands of tourists and local residents who visit the Bricktown district each year. Located at 1 E. Sheridan, Exhibit C includes an art gallery, retail shop and tourism information center.
Exhibit C continues the vision of raising awareness of the many cultural and entertainment experiences in Oklahoma set forth by Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby.
“Native culture is a vital part of the attraction Oklahoma holds for visitors from across the U.S. and around the world. We are investing in Exhibit C because it offers an extraordinary place for visitors to experience the rich Native American history and heritage of our state. We are pleased to celebrate a growing partnership between our tribe and Oklahoma City which offers benefits to everyone concerned.”
Exhibit C’s art gallery displays works of several artists from the Chickasaw and southeastern tribes as well as works from a special featured artist that will rotate every four months. The retail shop offers artisan works such as jewelry, pottery, paintings and clothing. Other retail items include the full line of Bedré Fine Chocolate, books from Chickasaw Press as well as Chickasaw Country-branded items. Exhibit C also functions as a tourism information center for Bricktown visitors interested in Chickasaw Country.
World-renowned Chickasaw artist Mike Larsen is the first featured artist at Exhibit C. Larsen has a passion for American history and art that has led him to a career in painting and sculpting for more than 40 years. By immersing himself into historical events, Larsen is able to create paintings and sculptures that reflect a specific event or period of time in history.
Pieces of Larsen’s art can be seen throughout Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma State Capitol Building and the Chickasaw Cultural Center. Larsen’s artwork is on display at Exhibit C now through October.
Paige Williams, Chickasaw Nation Department of Commerce director of tourism, said the mixed-use space incorporates a contemporary design concept that embraces historical and natural elements. The gallery and office space is separated by glass walls to encourage collaboration between visitors and staff.
“Exhibit C not only features a well-rounded representation of Chickasaw artists’ pieces as well as pieces from other southeastern tribes in one location,” Williams said. “But, it also gives visitors the chance to learn more about a rich culture and history that awaits their exploration in south-central Oklahoma. This space, in essence, is meant to be a one-stop shop for visitors who may not have the time this trip to explore all of Chickasaw Country but still want to take home an authentic memory of their visit to our state.”
Exhibit C is open daily from 11 a.m. until 8 p.m. at 1 E. Sheridan, Bricktown. All items located in the Exhibit C art gallery and retail space will be for sale.
About Chickasaw Country
Chickasaw Country is a regional tourism organization representing 13 south-central Oklahoma counties. A marketing association lead by The Chickasaw Nation to blend tourism efforts in the region, Chickasaw Country represents festivals, events and attractions. A very diverse and cultural destination, Chickasaw Country has new adventures around every corner. In 2013, the U.S. Travel Association honored Chickasaw Country with a Destiny award in both the Best Travel Website and Best Use of Social Media Platform categories. The awards were given during the annual Educational Seminar for Tourism Organizations conference.
