Art shows, exhibitions, cultural classes among year’s events
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Cherokee Heritage Center, the premier cultural center for tribal history, culture and arts, continues its commitment to preserving and honoring Cherokee culture in 2014 by offering several art shows and exhibitions, educational programs and cultural classes.
Art Shows and Events
Cherokee Nation: A Portrait of a People – Now-April 6: Cherokee people brought to life through photography by internationally renowned photographer David Fitzgerald.
Indian Territory Days – March 27 & 28: Two days of hands-on activities, games and demonstrations for school age children with a focus on Cherokee life in the late 19th century.
Trail of Tears Art Show and Sale – April 12-May 25: Enjoy and purchase authentic Native American art presented in one of the country’s most prestigious multi-tribal art shows.
Gospel Sing – May 17: Local Cherokee groups sing gospel songs in Cherokee and English. A free hog fry is provided to the guests and participants.
Diligwa, 300 Years in the Making: June 2 – Aug 24: The construction of the Tsalagi Village in 1967 was based on available information, but did not have the benefit of archaeological literature. The 1710 Diligwa village broke ground in 2011, and the Cherokee Heritage Center incorporated new archeological data that was developed over time. Learn how new and old technology made Diligwa possible.
Cherokee Ancestry Conference – June 13 & 14: The latest search tools and resources for genealogical research of Cherokee ancestry, guest speakers and workshops highlight the conference.
Cherokee National Homecoming Fair – Aug. 29-31: See original Cherokee art at the Homecoming Art Show, take a tour of the 1710 Cherokee village Diligwa and explore over 70 arts and crafts booths.
Cherokee Homecoming Art Show and Sale – Aug. 30-Sept. 21: Don’t miss the exclusive exhibition and sale of modern and traditional Cherokee art.
First Families of the Cherokee Nation Reunion – Aug. 31: A celebratory gathering of Cherokee descendants who can demonstrate legal residency prior to ratification of the 1839 Cherokee Constitution.
1710 Cherokee: Hands On – Sept. 29- March 2015: Guests of all ages become Cherokee villagers as they use their senses and critical thinking skills to explore art, math and cultural concepts in an exciting hands-on environment.
Ancient Cherokee Days – Oct. 2 & 3: Two days of hands-on activities, traditional Cherokee games and demonstrations for school-aged children, with a focus on the early 1700s.
Genealogy Classes – first Saturday of each month: Learn about family history with experienced genealogists at the Cherokee Family Research Center.
Classes are designed to teach Cherokee culture and history through the arts. Each class will feature a historical overview and art instruction. All materials are provided. Students leave with a project.
Cultural Classes
Honeysuckle Baskets – March 8: Students learn the process of gathering, processing and making baskets using the natural honeysuckle reed.
1700 Cherokee Clothing – April 12: The history of Cherokee clothing and trade shirts, skirts, breechclout and leggings construction.
Basic Cherokee Beadwork – May 10: Learn the rich history of Cherokee beadwork and learn essential stitches and techniques to create Cherokee beadwork.
Beginning Pottery – June 14: Essential elements of building Cherokee pottery will be taught.
Flint Knapping – Aug. 9: The skills of flint knapping for tools and weapons will be presented.
Flat Reed Basketry – Sept. 13: The history and basket making techniques of flat reed basketry.
Advanced Pottery – Oct. 11: Learn the elements of firing pottery, paint, slips and other finishing techniques for Cherokee pottery.
Round-Reed Basketry – Nov. 8: The unique characteristic of Cherokee double walled basketry.
Cherokee Clothing: Hunting Jacket – Dec. 13: Called a symbol of diplomacy, the construction and design of the Cherokee hunting jacket will be taught.
Registration fee for classes is $40 and times are 10 a.m. – 3 p.m., except for Advanced Beadwork, which is $65 and is 8 a.m – 5 p.m.
Cultural class registration is required since attendance is limited. Children must be at least 12 years of age, and an adult must accompany children ages 12-17.
For registration or additional information, please contact the Cherokee Heritage Center education department at (888) 999-6007 or by email at tonia-weavel@cherokee.org.
The Cherokee Heritage Center is the premier cultural center for Cherokee tribal history, culture and the arts. For information on the 2014 season events, operating hours and programs, please contact the Cherokee Heritage Center at (888) 999-6007 or visit www.CherokeeHeritage.org. It can also be found on Facebook by searching “Cherokee Heritage Center.”
