Destination Catoosa: Event Showcases Local Native American Art

A three-day event is underway in Catoosa showcasing Native American Art. Organizers said they are hoping to create a Santa Fe Art Experience with talent already here in the community. 

Catoosa is known for the Blue Whale and Route 66 but this weekend it will also help showcase Native American Art. The Route 66 Native Arts Alliance wanted to support artists after the pandemic, and they have put on several shows to do just that.

"We want a Santa Fe Indian Art Market right here in Catoosa, Oklahoma," said Cherokee pottery artist Crystal Hanna. 

This is a group of people who knows how to organize an event suited for everyone, of every age.

"I just want people to recognize the high quality of artwork - Native American Artwork. And why do I say Native American Artwork? Because I am Native American. I am Cherokee. I am very proud of my culture. Every Native American Artist will tell you art is our connection to our culture and our history," said Hanna. 

There is an art show and private concert Friday night. A musician named Becky Hobbs flew in from Nashville to perform a song she wrote called "Destination Catoosa."

"On the paintings, I use lots of movement, lots of color and each one has a title and a story behind it," said artist Clancy Gray. 

There will be more art shows and the Cherokee street fair on Saturday with food trucks and entertainment.

You can find the event schedule here.