Artistic Adventures in Chickasaw Country
From visual arts to live performances, Chickasaw Country offers a multitude of experiences for art enthusiasts. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these highlighted art spaces promise to inspire and captivate you with their unique offerings.
Charles B. Goddard Center
Situated in Ardmore’s downtown, the Charles B. Goddard Center is a hub of cultural experiences and art education. Established in 1970, the center has recently undergone a renovation, which includes a lobby expansion, remodeled art classrooms and significant infrastructure improvements. Visitors can explore the visual arts museum, enjoy performances in the theatre, stroll through the sculpture garden and participate in hands-on art activities. With a variety of exhibits, activities and shows scheduled throughout the year, including performances by the University of Oklahoma School of Music, the Goddard Center is a must-visit destination for art lovers.
Marvin's Place Art Gallery
Located less than half a mile from Charles B. Goddard Center in the Depot District of Ardmore is Marvin’s Place Art Gallery. Every Friday evening, the Listening Room at Marvin's Place transforms into a vibrant hub of live music, featuring unplugged performances by talented singers and songwriters. Marvin's Place offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in both visual and musical arts, making it an ideal destination for art enthusiasts.
Featured Artists at the Chickasaw Nation Welcome Center and Chickasaw Visitor Center
You'll be captivated by First American artwork at the Chickasaw Nation Welcome Center in Davis and the Chickasaw Visitor Center in Sulphur. These featured artist exhibits run for six months, offering you plenty of time to explore and connect with the exceptional creations of First American artists. Each exhibition provides a unique opportunity to learn about the artists' cultural heritage and artistic expression, allowing for an appreciation of their work. Through these art displays, you can gain insight into the rich traditions and creative visions that define First American art, making your visit both educational and inspiring.
Pauls Valley Downtown Art
Pauls Valley is a hidden gem for art enthusiasts, offering an art scene that is sure to captivate and inspire. An anchor of this artistic hub is the Stark Art Studio and Gallery, a multifaceted space that goes beyond a traditional gallery. Located in downtown Pauls Valley, just a block south of The Toy & Action Figure Museum, the Stark Art Studio serves as an art studio, music theater, recording studio and the base of operations for artist Kevin Stark. Visitors can explore the variety of mediums created by the artist, making this gallery a must-visit destination for anyone in the area.
Another art stop in Pauls Valley is The Vault Art Space and Gathering Place. This venue combines an art gallery with a private event space. The building retains elements of its early 1900s origins, including an original vault door, antique ceiling tiles and vintage signs. The Vault hosts a variety of artist exhibitions throughout the year, showcasing traditional to abstract pieces, sculptures and ceramics. The space can also be customized for private events, adding to its charm and versatility. While you’re there, don’t miss the Butterfly Mandala mural by Oklahoma artist Rick Sinnett on the alley wall outside the building, which beautifully ties history and art together.
To truly experience the vibrant art scene in Pauls Valley, participate in the Fifth Friday Art Walk. This event is a fantastic opportunity to explore different art venues and engage with local talent. As you stroll through the walk, you’ll encounter the Stark Art Gallery, The Toy and Action Figure Museum, The Train Depot and The Vault Art Space and Gathering Place. It’s an excellent way to connect with the local community and discover new artists, making your visit to Pauls Valley worth the visit.
Murals Throughout South-Central Oklahoma
Finally, explore another medium of art through the captivating murals scattered throughout Chickasaw Country, each telling a story of each town’s pride and culture. In Marlow, the Marlow Brothers mural on Main Street captures the town's most fascinating and infamous residents, highlighting an intriguing chapter in the history of the American West. In Kingston, the new "Welcome to Kingston" mural warmly greets visitors heading to Lake Texoma State Park with its colorful and inviting design. These murals, along with many others across the area, offer a stunning visual representation of local pride and artistic expression. To learn more about these remarkable pieces and find additional murals to visit, check out our Mural Trail itinerary.
Plan Your Art Adventure
Each location provides a distinct experience, showcasing everything from modern artistic expressions to cultural heritage, guaranteeing something for everyone to appreciate. Make sure to visit these art destinations and let the creativity of Chickasaw Country inspire you. Share your art adventures with us on social media using #VisitChickasaw so we can enjoy your favorite moments too!