NSU library hosts “The Arrival” art show

(Tahlequah, Oklahoma) - The Northeastern State University John Vaughan Library is hosting The Arrival, an art show featuring Troy Jacksons original works April 5 through May 4. A reception will be held April 5 from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m.

Jackson is a native Oklahoman and an award-winning Cherokee artist. He received his associate degree from Bacone College, a Bachelor of Arts from NSU and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Arkansas. An art educator, he has taught at NSU and Bacone.

As an artist, clay and steel sculptures have become Jacksons choice of media, many of which have won prestigious awards in and around the United States. His recognitions include 16 Grand Awards in and around Oklahoma, a coveted Best of Classification and Best of Division in Santa Fe, New Mexico and many first and second place awards throughout the U.S.

According to Jackson, his work focuses on the working class history of his family.

My grandparents were a product of the Great Depression era, and being both Cherokee and European, each were similarly affected by the economics of the United States, Jackson said. The resilience of these two very different families have now become my inspiration. As an artist, I want my work to shed light on the identity of these two cultures, not to separate them, but to join them together.

Brenda Bradford, head of NSU Special Collections & Archives, encourages the community to visit the art show.

Mr. Jackson is an outstanding Cherokee artist, Bradford said. He is absolutely brilliant and his work is phenomenal. It will be a wonderful opportunity for our students and community to view his work.

For more information, please contact Bradford at cochra07@nsuok.edu.