The Oklahoma Hall of Fame is proud to host a special exhibit of nine artists in the Tulsa World | Lorton Family Gallery at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum. Inclusion in Art – Spirit of Color will be on display from February 9 to April 20, 2020. This exhibition is presented in part by the Oklahoma Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.
Events at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum include:
- Exhibition Reception, 5:00-7:00 pm, February 13
- Spring Thing: Artist Day, 10am-12pm, Friday, March 20
- See You Saturday: Spirit of Color, 10am-4pm, Saturday, April 11
- Diverse City happy hour featuring artist talk by Al Bostick,5:00-8:00 pm, April 16
Spirit of Color is an expression of identity and culture through the arts. It is supporting and advocating for diverse groups of artists and making a place for their unique perspectives. It is challenging the norm and having the courage to be true to one’s self. It is the culmination and celebration of the artistic careers of artists Mary Ann Moore “Senoj,” Edward Grady, Marty Avrett, Wallace Owens, Corazon Watkins, Rose and Melvin Smith, Michi Susan and Al Bostick. A catalog featuring the work of all nine artists, sponsored by Fowler Automotive, will be available at the museum and will be distributed to high school libraries across the state.
This exhibition is an overdue honor for many artists of color in Oklahoma who, despite the difficulties minorities have experienced in our state’s history, paved the way for younger generations. Spirit of Color showcases works by nine prolific artists of color living in Oklahoma, whom we wish to honor for their long-standing commitment to the arts, community, sacrifice, and achievements. These individuals have participated in our communities as educators, curators and outstanding practicing artists, finding national and international success.
Inclusion in Art is a non-profit visual arts organization dedicated to promoting racial and cultural diversity in Oklahoma’s visual arts community, through exhibitions, workshops, creative projects and lectures. With an emphasis on collaboration, Inclusion in Art seeks to continue supporting artists of color by connecting communities through socially conscious presentations that challenge the mind and embrace progressive thought.
The Oklahoma Hall of Fame preserves Oklahoma’s history by telling Oklahoma’s story through its people. Founded in 1927, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame was created to honor Oklahomans who had given outstanding service to the state during their lifetime and to provide educational programming for students of all ages. Being inducted to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame is Oklahoma's Highest Honor. Through exhibits and experiences at the Gaylord-Pickens Museum, the Oklahoma Hall of Fame stands to preserve Oklahoma’s unique history while promoting pride in our great state. For more information about the Oklahoma Hall of Fame or Gaylord-Pickens Museum, visit oklahomahof.com or call 405.235.4458.