NSU to host Arts of Indigenous Cultures series

(Tahlequah, Oklahoma)--As part of American Heritage Month in November, Northeastern State Universitys Center for Tribal Studies is hosting the Arts of Indigenous Cultures Series. All events are free and open to the public.

The Arts of Indigenous Cultures Series begins Nov. 2 with a hand games and powwow Dance Demonstration with the Young Culture Krew at 12 p.m. at the Second Century Square next to the University Center. The demonstration will highlight some of the traditional dances performed during powwow and other events and the hand game which is practiced during traditional gatherings, celebrations and even used in local competitions.

Steven Paul Judd (Kiowa/Choctaw), film-maker, graphic designer and artist, will build on audience participation to facilitate a live art workshop on Nov. 17 from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. in the University Center. During the workshop, participants will be instructed to paint a small section of art on a piece of canvas and at the end of the come and go workshop, each piece of canvas will be put together to form a single piece of Native American inspired art.

On Nov. 15 at 6:30 p.m. in the University Center Ballroom, the Center for Tribal Studies will host a Stompdance Demonstration led by tribal elder, George Coser (Muscogee). This demonstration will provide opportunities for participants to engage while learning about Muscogee traditions and the ceremony of the stomp dance.

This series is sponsored in part by the Oklahoma Arts Council.

The NSU Center for Tribal Studies is appreciative of the support provided by the Oklahoma Arts Council. Their funding allows us to continue offering community programs to enhance the cultural experience of our students and local residents, Sara Barnett, director of the Center for Tribal Studies, said.

A complete list of the Center for Tribal Studies American Indian Heritage Month events can be found on our website at Center for Tribal Studies Events. For more information, contact the Center for Tribal Studies by phone at 918.444.4350 or email at tribalstudies@nsuok.edu.