Southeastern tribal art to delight festival attendees

TISHOMINGO, Okla. - The 2015 Chickasaw Nation Southeastern Art Show and Market (SEASAM) will open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday, Oct. 2, bordering the historic Chickasaw Nation Capitol grounds along North Fisher and Eighth streets.

Hosted by the Chickasaw Nation during the tribe's 55th Annual Meeting and 27th Chickasaw Festival, the juried art competition and market will also be open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 3.

Artists from southeastern and woodland tribes will be participating, displaying art in four categories: two-dimensional, three-dimensional, cultural art and miniature art.

Established in 2005, SEASAM provides a place where Native American artists can express themselves, preserve their cultural identity through fine art and promote a greater awareness of cultural traditions.

The show is seen as one of the premiere events for Native American artists. This year, judges will award $7,000 for 'best of show' and $2,500 for 'best of category.'

SEASAM has something for everyone, from fine art, pottery, painting, beading, carved stone, weapons, ceremonial and decorative drums, clothing, stomp dance sashes, gorgets and many other art mediums with dominate southeastern tribal heritage and culture.

The highlight of the annual meeting is Governor Bill Anoatubby's "State of the Nation" address. He will deliver it to thousands of Chickasaws expected to attend. The address will take place at Fletcher Auditorium on the Murray State College campus at 9 a.m., Oct. 3.

For those unable to attend, the speech will be broadcast live on KCNP 89.5 FM. By going online, citizens may hear the address live from most anywhere worldwide.

For more information at SEASAM, visit http://www.chickasaw.net or contact the Chickasaw Nation Arts & Humanities at (580) 272-5520 or by email artistinfo@chickasaw.net. For more information concerning annual meeting, visit http://www.chickasaw.net and type "annual meeting" in the search box.