Tulsa, Oklahoma, is often overlooked by the other 49 states in the U.S. Many that are familiar with the name view it as a boring, irrelevant city where you go to settle down and live a slow life. While many people do settle down in Tulsa, what they don’t know is that Tulsa is the second largest city in Oklahoma full of life, character, good food, unique architecture and a dominant demographic of 20-30 year olds.
The simplest identifying feature of Tulsa is the inclusivity and promotion of local art. The art displayed often depicts the culture, values and history of Tulsa. G.T. Bynum, Mayor of Tulsa, supports local art because he realizes its beneficial impact on the community.
“Tulsans pride ourselves on being an arts city, and we continue to invest in the arts because we know the critical role the arts community has in our local economy, quality of life and the future advancement of our city”, Bynum said.
The art in the city is tied together with simple public art displays placed throughout the city as well as art galleries. The Tulsa Arts District just north of downtown Tulsa is just one of many ways that locals and nonlocals can view the vastness of art created in Tulsa. One popular event series is First Friday Art Crawls where many galleries and shops come together and open their doors to the public for the evening. The galleries each have their own style and collections of art.
5 Exciting Art Galleries:
There are many ways to see art in Tulsa, however, here are five that offer a unique sense of Tulsa’s culture in intriguing ways.
1. Mainline Gallery
Mainline Gallery is a rare business called an “art bar”. It offers a variety of decently priced drinks while entertaining with live music and art displays. It features a new exhibit every month. Visitors say that it has a fun and casual atmosphere. The art bar even offers karaoke on Sunday nights.
2. Ahha Tulsa
If you’re looking for a place to meet the needs of multiple people, this is the right place. Each floor of the gallery has different involvement levels. The first is a regular, walk-through museum. The second floor is very hands-on and interactive, while the third has studio exhibits. The attendees are never bored by the interesting, mind-boggling art. There is a $12 entry fee per adult, but many say it is worth it. The gallery also hosts events, team building activities, soirees and allows space rentals.
3. 108 Contemporary
108 Contemporary is a minimal and clean gallery that features art made from many different types of mediums. It displays quality crafting with tapestry, fibers, ceramics and more. The gallery is free to all! It is a great option for those who enjoy less chaos yet thought-provoking art.
4. TAC Gallery
This gallery is a nonprofit, completely volunteer-run organization. It was formed to support modern artists and create a safe place for evolving styles. It works to connect the community with the artistic culture it contains. The gallery is free, however you can support it by becoming a member.
5. Living Arts of Tulsa
This group provides a place for artists to inform others, voice their thoughts and present cultural portrayals. It encourages empowerment with different art styles from speakers, films, exhibits and more. This gallery hosts many events and activities to bring in the public, some leisure and some educational.
Tulsa’s art isn’t just locked up in buildings; it’s interwoven throughout the city. The impact of a singular mural on a wall or a small sculpture on the corner brings a simple sense of beauty to the city. It provides a distinctiveness to Tulsa.
Tulsa may be subject to underestimation, but so much depth, beauty and culture can be seen if the simple appearances are explored. Sometimes the best things are the simplest things.
Try visiting some places mentioned in the blog and post a picture to social media! Tag @VentureTulsa and #VentureTulsa for a chance to be featured! We would love to see you getting out and exploring the city. /gb
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