Traditional Cherokee Art Classes Available This Summer

Native News Network Staff in Entertainment. Discussion »

TAHLEQUAH, OKLAHOMA – The Cherokee Arts Center in Tahlequah, Oklahoma announces five upcoming art classes available this summer for anyone interested in creating traditional pieces of art that are relevant to Cherokee culture.

June & July Classes

On Friday, June 15, Teri Rhoades will be teaching a precious metal clay class from 9 am to 5 pm. Precious metal clay is a putty-like mixture made of silver powder, water and a binder. Participants will learn how to mold, texture and layer PMC to make pendants, earrings and small sculptures. Once the pieces are fired, the water and binder are driven off to reveal a pure silver piece of art. Registration is $90 and a deposit of $50 is required to reserve a seat in the class. Students will also pay $45 for tools, which they will get to keep.

Cherokee National Treasure Bessie Russell will give participants a traditional lesson in Cherokee double-wall basket making on June 23 and June 30 from 10 am to 2 pm. The class is $80 and a $40 deposit is required to reserve a seat. Participants must also purchase their own materials including three rolls of #1 round reed and clippers or large scissors.

Sandra Pallie from the Cherokee Basket Weaver's Association will present two basket making classes this summer.

Pallie's red, white and blue twill star basket tray class is available on June 16 and June 30 from 10 am to 4 pm. A $70 class fee, which includes all materials and supplies, is required to reserve a seat.

On July 14 and July 28 Pallie will teach participants how to make Oklahoma oval double-wall basket purses. The class runs from 10 am to 4 pm. and the fee is $70, which includes all materials and supplies.

Cherokee National Treasure Jane Osti will be teaching three separate youth clay classes on July 11, 18 and 25 from 6 pm to 8 pm. Students 5-12 years old will get a fun introduction to clay as they sculpt animals, make small coiled pots and use traditional Cherokee tools. A $25 class fee is required to reserve a seat.

All art classes are open to the public and held at the Cherokee Arts Center in Tahlequah, 212 S. Water St. For more information or to register for a class contact Valerie Diffee at 918.453.5728.

posted June 5, 2012 8:20 am edt