Opens Friday, Aug. 30
Most Oklahomans share an appreciation for the art of Allan Houser, though, they may not know it. The work by the Chiricahua Apache sculptor and painter born in southwestern Oklahoma can be found in museums all over the works, including the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C., but his most recognizable work can be seen on the back of every vehicle registered through the state of Oklahoma. Houser’s “Sacred Rain Arrow,” a bronze sculpture on exhibit at Tulsa’s Gilcrease Museum, is a prominent image on the Oklahoma state license plate, and it well represents Houser's body of contemporary work. The National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum, 1700 N.E. 63rd St., Oklahoma City, gets an early start honoring the late artist on his 100th birthday next year with the exhibit Allan Houser and His Students, opening Friday, Aug. 30. The special installation looks at Houser’s aesthetic and his roll as a teacher and mentor to other Native American artists. An opening reception has been scheduled for 4:30-6:30 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 29. Allan Houser remains on exhibition through May 11. For more, visit www.nationalcowboymuseum.org.
