Historical Art Center On OU Campus Calling Native American Artists For Art Exhibition

A historical art center in Norman is making an open call for Native American artists. Specifically, artists from Oklahoma tribes.

The Jacobson House Native Art Center on the University of Oklahoma campus had an extended closure due to the pandemic and renovations. The staff wants the public to know they are still there and better than ever.

A piece of rich Oklahoma history in the heart of Norman.

“It all started kind of right here, ”Jacobson House Native Art Center Board Chairman Brent Greenwood said. “Has a special place in my heart.”

Brent Greenwood's art career along with many other Native artists started at the Jacobson House Native Art Center.

“So yeah, this is over 100 years old,” Greenwood.

He wants to help kickstart other careers through the center's Fall art show dubbed "Twenty-First Century."

“Some are going to be from the early 2000s and some will be from last month,” said Greenwood. “To see that gambit of narratives and expressions is going to be really cool.”

Greenwood said so far, they have 15 artists representing Oklahoma tribes on board for the art show. However, he would like to have artists from all 39 tribal nations. Greenwood’s other goal is to put the art center back in the spotlight of the community. The historical building recently underwent a major renovation and facelift.

“OU reinvested in the house and did major upgrades,” Greenwood said.

Greenwood is ready to showcase the art that made the center locally famous and keep the tradition alive for years to come.

“That’s what I want this to be for our people,” Greenwood said. “A sense of place, self, and community.

The open call for Native artists ends Aug. 30, and selected artists will be notified by Sept. 3. Contact the Jacobson House Native Art Center for more details.