Artesian Arts Festival Call for Artists
13th annual juried art show and market for First American artists with $20 competition categories, awards, and cash prizes.
The Chickasaw Nation is hosting the 13th annual Artesian Arts Festival, a community celebration of First American fine art and artists. This prestigious juried art show and market welcomes applications from First American artists representing federally recognized tribes. The festival takes place on Saturday, May 2, 2026, in Sulphur, Oklahoma, at the Artesian Plaza adjacent to The Artesian Hotel and Spa (1001 W. First St., Sulphur).
The competition features 20 art categories including drawing, graphic arts, mixed media, painting, photography, jewelry, sculpture, textiles, 3D diverse, beadwork/quillwork, pottery, traditional dress and regalia, weaponry, and cultural diverse. Artists can compete for awards and cash prizes across all categories, plus "Best of Division" and "Best of Show" awards.
The festival is a major cultural event that welcomed more than 8,800 visitors in 2025. Beyond the art competition, the event features live musical entertainment, cultural dance demonstrations, and food vendors. Admission is free and open to the public.
This is an excellent opportunity for Indigenous artists to showcase their work, gain recognition, and compete for monetary awards while celebrating First American artistic traditions and contemporary work.