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Evoking Emotions
Authentic inspiration feels increasingly rare in this day and age.
For a piece of art, of any medium, to cut through the constant noise, the algorithms, the rage-bait, the short-form videos—it must be powerful. Perhaps your soul needed a taste of whatever emotion the art induced. That is what happened with the breathtaking and colorful piece on our cover of the annual Artist Issue.
“Gentle Release” is what artist Taylor Clark titled the work of art. From the first time I saw it last September, I knew I wanted it on the cover of the April 2026 issue. What this piece portrays to me is a moment of peace and hope. Both the woman and the bird are full of anticipation for what is to come. They are together but also in the process of separating. A bird is not intended to live its life on the ground, nor in the hands of a human. The girl knows that and is fulfilled in releasing the bird to the sky. It reminds me of parenting; sending a finished magazine to the printer; so many other situations in life when you prepare something for its place in the world.
For our cover feature this month, senior writers Evie Klopp Holzer and Lavinia Creswa interviewed four local fine artists, some whose work is exploding on the international arts scene and some whose pieces have been adored by OKC for generations. Photographer Charlie Neuenschwander captured the artists in their studio elements where they create magic (pg. 30).
Also in this issue we have our Museums and Galleries Guide. This helpful list will keep your days full of lovely places to spend a day strolling, exploring and learning (pg. 43).
We are excited to showcase some of the most creative and fabulous looks from deadCenter’s “Road to Oz” Glitterball. I was fortunate enough to be dressed and styled by local designer Stella Thomas in a once-in-a-lifetime gown and headpiece. The 405 brought its fashion A-game that night (pg. 40)!
Additionally, we are thrilled to introduce you to a couple taking Oklahoma’s film industry to the next level (pg. 14).
Thanks to reader feedback, we are bringing back our travel section several times a year! Matt Kirouac visited a bohemian high-desert town to kick us off (pg. 12).
Finally, our coverages of a mid-century home design spread (pg. 26), exquisite Asian fusion restaurant (pg. 54) and highest of OKC’s grand high teas (pg. 56) are sure to inspire—happy April!
BEHIND THE SCENES
Julie Partin EDITOR IN CHIEF
THE SKY’S THE LIMIT
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Elevated Atmosphere
Stunning,
View From the Top
A new take on Taos
BY MATT KIROUAC
One of America’s quintessential mountain towns, there’s a lot more to Taos than black diamond slopes and après-ski luxury. Despite its small size and population, the northern New Mexico town is as multifaceted as its high-desert climate. From art to architecture, that variety is woven into the cultural DNA of a town founded as a Spanish
village in 1615, and whose roots began centuries earlier, when the Tiwa peoples built mighty pueblo structures that still stand today.
Nowadays, travelers are still drawn to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, transfixed by its natural and architectural beauty, just as the earliest explorers were. That enduring allure manifests in ways old and new. It’s in the New Mexican cuisine, served up in adobe hotels, and on the snow-swept slopes. It’s in the vastness of the Rio Grande Gorge, the infamy of its haunted residences and the timeless history preserved in the pueblo. A scenic day’s drive from OKC, it’s a worthwhile destination no matter the season. It’s time for a new take on Taos.
WHERE TO STAY
Tucked away on the edge of historic Taos Plaza downtown, El Monte Sagrado is the kind of immersive retreat that feels like a serene sanctuary. Nestled on manicured grounds,
flanked by waterfalls and ponds, the adobestyle property boasts in-room fireplaces and bathtubs, a spa, complimentary yoga classes and an enormous indoor saltwater pool, surrounded by enough lush vegetation to fill a greenhouse. Don’t miss Anaconda Bar, where guests can share green chile cheeseburgers under a replica anaconda on the ceiling.
Nearby, Hotel Willa is a new designforward boutique, reimagining a ’60s-era adobestyle motor lodge with earth-toned minimalism and terra cotta walls, an artist-in-residency program and rooms with kiva fireplaces and private patios. For more space, a former adobe home has been converted into suites, and the on-site restaurant, Juliette, pays homage to chef Johnny Ortiz-Concha’s mother, who grew up near the present-day hotel. The eclectic menu features everything from fresh cheese dumplings with oyster mushrooms and turnips to lamb ribs with winter squash and piñon. The hotel also features an outdoor pool and hot tub.
LEFT TO RIGHT (CLOCKWISE): EL MONTE SAGRADO, RIO GRANDE
GORGE BRIDGE, HORSEBACK RIDING, THE LOVE APPLE
RESTAURANT, AND ANACONDA BAR AT EL MONTE SAGRADO
WHERE TO PLAY
Indoors and out, all year long, entertainment—and edutainment—takes many forms in Taos.
Come winter, Taos Ski Valley is the town’s bread and butter, famed for its 300 inches of annual snowfall, and more than 300 days of sunshine. Clocking in at nearly 1,300 acres and 110 trails ranging from beginner to expert, it’s a something-for-everyone-style destination, set in the majestic Sangre de Cristos, with a bustling ski village at the base.
Considering the magnitude of the winter wonderland in the ski valley, it’s hard to fathom that the Taos Pueblo—a village of multi-story adobe homes dating back over 1,000 years—is mere miles away. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s like stepping far back in time, with accessible sites like the San Geronimo Chapel and shops selling pottery, jewelry and other wares. Nearby, Taos Plaza has its own history to share. In the heart of downtown, this is where the first settlers and artisans set up shop, following a land grant from the King of Spain in 1796. Once comprised of houses surrounded by a barrier wall, the plaza touts shops, galleries, farmers markets and events. A block away, visitors will find even more storefronts at the John Dunn Shops, a shaded pedestrian shopping mall home to Common Thread Textiles, Café Sagrado, Mooncat Fiber and more.
Another great outing is the Carson Home and Museum. Built in 1825, it was once the home of the legendary frontiersman Kit Carson, until his death in 1868. The museum preserves the rich history of the American Southwest, including the Native tribes that far pre-dated European settlement. It’s also allegedly haunted.
Outdoors, adventurers have their share of thrills, from fly fishing expeditions and guided horseback rides to hot air balloons and llama hikes. Be sure to stop on the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, the fifth highest in the U.S. At 650 feet, the views are staggering, and there’s a trail that hugs the canyon’s edge, on the west side of the bridge, for those brave enough to take a closer look.
WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK
From traditional New Mexican cuisine to modern menus and historic bars, the dining scene in Taos is as deep as the gorge.
Start with house-roasted coffee— and espresso drinks, like white chocolatemacadamia-cherry lattes—at The Coffee Apothecary. Right next door, Bread Club Taos is a sunny cafe slinging pastries and breads, including blue cornmeal sourdough. And in the same parking lot, Mary Jane’s Home Cooking makes some of the best breakfast burritos in town.
Later, have dinner at The Love Apple, specializing in local and organic New Mexican cooking. Located in a former chapel from the 1800s, the space is as storied as the menu, which changes regularly. Examples include homemade tamales with Oaxacan-style mole; grilled trout
wrapped in corn husks with lime butter; and fried avocado tacos with coconut creamed corn. A buzzy newcomer, SUCHNESS dining room is the handiwork of chef Kevin Sousa, who almost single-handedly mans the kitchen while his wife Meg runs the beverage program. The ever-changing, always-riveting menu might include smoked beets with mixed berries and goat gouda; pork belly with koji-roasted cabbage and mole poblano; and rigatoni with smoked carrot bolognese.
And for a nightcap with a side of history, follow the neon sign to the Adobe Bar. Housed inside the Taos Inn, a former residence-turned hotel, the cozy Pueblo space is renowned for its margaritas, and its nickname as the “Living Room of Taos.” Live music plays nightly, and you’ll also find New Mexican bar bites like green chile pork stew, loaded nachos and green chile smash burgers.
Movie-Making Magic
Amy and Richard Janes of Filmmakers Ranch and deadCenter Film
BY KRISTEN GRACE PHOTOS BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
Amy and Richard Janes, a powerhouse duo in the indie movie landscape, talk about their first visit to Oklahoma as though it’s a film they might shoot one day. Amy, who had been living in L.A. for many years, said, “It was April. And it was snowing. By the end of the week, we were sitting in acres of grass. More grass than I have ever seen. And it was 80 degrees.”
For Richard, it was the community: “It was the open arms of Oklahoma people. There was an interest in what we were doing, and many people asking how they could help. When we landed here, we were welcomed in a way that I would never have thought possible.”
By the end of their visit, the entire family had decided that Oklahoma felt like home, after passing on lovely places like Portland, Austin and several cities farther east. They felt deeply sure that Oklahoma was the place to build the production studio they had been dreaming about since their first date in L.A. 20 years earlier.
Today, Filmmakers Ranch, just 15 miles from Oklahoma City, is a reality. Spanning 12 acres and featuring 8,000 square feet of sound stages with greenscreen capabilities, the ranch is designed to accommodate large film and TV programs as well as smaller independent films.
The company has served Oklahoma’s production industry since 2011, providing equipment to clients filming on location, such as Killers of the Flower Moon, “Reservation Dogs” and Minari. In 2025, Green Day filmed their punk-rock adventure movie, New Year’s Rev, primarily here in Oklahoma, with postproduction work done at Filmmakers Ranch.
Richard spoke about all the projects that have been filming recently: “We created the foundation, we created the community, we invested a lot of money in the space. Now we have post-production Dolby Atmos mixing rooms. You can show up here with a script and a computer, and we can assemble the team. In nine months, we can deliver a high-quality, finished movie that you can sell on the market.”
In 2025, Amy Janes became the Executive Director of deadCenter Film. She said, “This year, we have three short films that are Oscar qualifying. The quality of films we are seeing now at deadCenter is incredible. We’ve had 25 years of brilliant leadership, and that is why we are growing. We want to continue to uplift Oklahoma voices and stories.
“Oklahoma is becoming the center of indie film. Festivals are becoming very important again for indie films, and we want to help emerging filmmakers get to their first feature. We are
inviting agents to the festival so they can see the talent. We want our filmmakers represented at a national level. And we also throw fantastic parties,” Amy smiled.
Richard added, “We want to give artists the opportunity to tell stories that Hollywood has shied away from in the past. We now have the foundation and the community, and soon we’ll have the financing as well. We are launching our own film fund to have more control over the films we are making and, when these films are successful, have the profits flow back to this state as well.”
Oklahoma has allowed Amy and Richard to find their niches in different segments of the same industry. Richard said, “It makes for easier dinners. Now we have conversations and ask, ‘What was your day like?’ whereas before we knew because we were in every single meeting together.” Amy laughed with him.
The Oklahoma film community needs a script about the love story of Richard and Amy Janes. As Richard said, “All it takes is one big movie to change everything.” Calling all script writers.
Follow deadcenterfilm.org to see what’s happening with the 2026 festival, coming June 10-14. Check out the Janes’ latest projects and filmmaking services at filmmakersranch.com.
Art You Glad You Dressed Up?
Fashion as art
BY BENNETT HILL
The beauty of art lies in its subjectivity. One piece of work might speak to an audience, telling a story scattered thoughtfully across a canvas. Another might appear as just colors suspended on a wall, elusive and uninterpretable to the naked eye. Yet, there it hangs for a reason. All it takes is one person to pause and appreciate a piece for it to be deemed display-worthy. The same thing can be said about our wardrobe. Who are we trying to impress? Ideally, the first answer is ourselves. Who decided two primary colors are one too many, or that an extra accessory tips an outfit from socially apt to “too much”? The artists whose works hang in the Oklahoma City Museum of Art likely exercised strong creative liberty; trusting their instincts to create pieces, knowing that the results might not work for everyone. Take the risk. The payoff is more compelling than a blank canvas.
1. Sydnie Banks, Movement Evening Watch Bag: Sydnie Banks
2. Essential Antwerp, Jonda Polo: Cayman/s
3. Ippolita, Gelato Cluster Ring: BC Clark
4. JS71, Fraser Skirt: Refinery
5. Leon, Vada Eyes: Black Optical
6. Dale Chihuly, River Rick Macchia: OKCMOA Store
7. Intentionally Blank, July Fisherman Heel: Betsy King Shoes
WOMEN TO KNOW IN OKLAHOMA
KNOW Media Group honored 52 Women of Impact for Oklahoma at the The Montellano Event Center. Oklahoma judges and co-hosts were Rachel Cannon and Victoria Woods, with KNOW founder Sarah Benken Foushee. The evening celebrated community impact, giving back and the successes of women in Oklahoma.
22ND ANNUAL JULIETTE LOW LEADERSHIP SOCIETY
LUNCHEON
Supporting Girl Scouts of Western Oklahoma, the annual Juliette Low Leadership Society Luncheon was held at the National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum. Under the leadership of co-chairs Joy LaBar and Debbie McKinney, with Tricia Everest serving as honorary chair, more than 550 supporters gathered. The event raised a record-breaking $500,000, making it the most successful luncheon in the organization’s history. Keynote speaker Amelia Rose Earhart told her story of flying around the world, and current Girl Scouts presented.
OKC THUNDER’S WOMEN IN BUSINESS SUMMIT
The OKC Thunder welcomed more than 650 guests to Paycom Center for its fourth annual Women in Business Summit, presented by MidFirst Bank. Attendees were able to network and make connections with women across various industries for a summit focused on celebrating women in their career fields and their contributions to the workforce. ESPN Commentator Holly Rowe was the day’s keynote speaker and panel emcee. The event also included guest speakers Lara Krug, EVP and chief media and marketing officer for the Kansas City Chiefs, and Jocelyn Monroe, chief marketing officer for the NWSL’s Kansas City Current, along with female, OKC-based leaders Dr. Jamie Polk, OKCPS superintendent, and Christi Woodworth, OG&E chief communications officer and chief of staff.
THE YALE OKC ART FUSION 2026
Local record label Heller Music Group hosted its third annual Art Fusion at The Yale. The experience blends visual art, fashion and live music into a single immersive showcase featuring only local artists, celebrating the city’s homegrown talent. The event was hosted by founder, Stefani Heller and Original Flow and DJed by Gold Lincoln. Music lineup included Diva OKC, ROZ, Bella Burns and Nia Moné. Visual artists included ThruMyEyez and GreazeyGirl, Danni Dixon, Jessica Ward (Meta More Studio) and Brendon Williams.
In Our Control
April is Parkinson’s Awareness Month
BY LAVINIA CRESWA
Harrison Ford is currently starring in the Apple TV+ show “Shrinking,” playing a grumpy psychologist who has also been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, learning his new normal as his body begins to be out of his control. His portrayal demonstrates how unpredictable and frustrating this particular neurological disease can be.
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive, neurodegenerative disorder which affects the dopamine-producing neurons in the brain. Where other neurological diseases have more hidden symptoms, Parkinson’s results in motor control issues such as resting tremors, rigidity, stooped posture and walking with slow, short and shuffling steps. Symptoms typically appear on one side of the body initially before spreading to both. By the time patients notice these symptoms, they have likely had undiagnosed Parkinson’s for some time.
Neurologist Cherian Karunapuzha, MD, explained, “Parkinson’s disease brews in our brain for years before manifesting physical
symptoms. During that period, we can have nonphysical symptoms or Pre-Motor Signs that start to appear together such as loss of smell, constipation and mood disorders like depression.”
There are no specific reasons people get Parkinson’s, and there are no lifestyle modifications proven to prevent the onset of the disease. Factors like genetic mutations, chronic exposure to certain chemicals and age are all linked to the chronic loss of dopamine associated with Parkinson’s.
“A newly diagnosed individual will be started on medications by a neurologist to help improve their physical symptoms,” Karunapuzha said. Generally, Parkinson’s progresses slowly over 15 to 20 years—and in that time, patients develop a close relationship with their physician.
“Neurologists become almost like the primary care provider for their patients. We will start to manage the non-physical symptoms that occur later in the course of the illness such as blood pressure fluctuations, incontinence,
mood issues, sleep disturbances and finally the cognitive decline. As patients start needing added care at home or need to be shifted to a facility, the neurology team will usually guide them directly or via a social worker.”
For Edmond resident Carol Sallee, learning about and living with Parkinson’s disease has become her reality after being diagnosed in July. “I noticed that I was really slowing down, but it was hard to tell whether it was just part of natural aging,” she said. “For two physicals in a row, I told my doctor that I felt like I was aging too fast. I started having some rigidity and wasn’t as fluid in my movements. When I would stretch, I wasn’t as limber. My handwriting became cramped and small, and I noticed that my right hand just wasn’t performing well.” After ruling out any other issues (there is no specific diagnostic test), Sallee received the clinical diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease.
As we age, it is vital to have annual physicals and report any symptom that seems unusual for us. While a Parkinson’s diagnosis is scary and can be overwhelming, Karunapuzha noted that it is important to remember: “Parkinson’s disease is not a death sentence. Symptoms can be very well controlled for years, with advancing interventions coming out almost every year including multiple oral medications, infusion treatments and even brain stimulators. There are also clinical trials currently looking at therapies that slow down the disease progression.”
PARKINSON'S ALLIANCE
With so much information available online, Sallee has found the Oklahoma Parkinson’s Alliance particularly beneficial. “They are a wonderful resource and host monthly events in OKC and Edmond where you can spend time with other people with Parkinson’s,” she said. “They bring in experts, provide information on webinars through national Parkinson’s organizations and discuss local exercise classes. I found out about a ballet class for Parkinson’s at the Mitch Park YMCA through one of their monthly meetings.”
NEUROLOGIST CHERIAN KARUNAPUZHA, MD
Peripheral Neuropathy Breakthrough!
“MY FEET FEEL LIKE THEY’RE ON FIRE.” “EACH STEP FEELS LIKE I’M WALKING THROUGH WET PAINT.”
“I LIVE IN CONSTANT FEAR THAT I’LL FALL.” “I CAN’T SLEEP, MY HANDS AND FEET TINGLE ALL NIGHT.”
What do all of these people have in common? They suffer from peripheral neuropathy.
It’s estimated that more than 20 million people in the United States have peripheral neuropathy, though the number may be much higher because the condition is often misdiagnosed due to its wide range of symptoms.
Dr. Toni Twitty of Be Well Acupuncture in Edmond, OK has been treating neuropathy for over a decade. “So often my patients come to me because of the symptoms, not because of a diagnosis,” she explains. “They saw one of my television specials or read a testimonial and thought, ‘Hey, I feel the same thing.’”
Betty M. of Oklahoma City remembers how difficult life had become before seeking help. “I remember my husband driving me to my consultation and seeing a woman running outside our neighborhood. I was so envious. I kept thinking, ‘I would give anything just to walk again.’ My doctor told me my pain and balance problems were just part of getting older and gave me a prescription. I was so depressed.”
After seeing a review about Dr. Toni, Betty decided to schedule a consultation. “I just
knew I had to see her. She was my last hope.”
“Almost all of our patients come to us with a story similar to Betty’s,” says Brooke, a Patient Care Technician at Be Well Acupuncture. “They’ve been told there is no hope or that it’s just part of getting older. But we know we can help people like Betty.”
Peripheral neuropathy occurs when nerves become damaged, often due to reduced blood flow in the hands and feet. Without proper nutrients, nerves begin to degenerate and die, causing symptoms ranging from discomfort to debilitating pain and balance problems.
“In this case, the absence of pain is not a good thing,” shares Dr. Toni. “It usually indicates the nerves are hanging on by a fragile thread.”
So how does Dr. Toni address this degenerative condition? “Acupuncture has been used to increase blood flow for thousands of years. It helps deliver nutrients to the nerves. But the real magic happens when I integrate ATP Resonance BioTherapy™, technology originally developed by NASA to help expedite recovery and healing.”
Betty quickly noticed a difference. “I just can’t say enough about Be Well,” she said joyfully. “My husband and I moved here to be near our grandchildren, but I stayed home because I couldn’t keep up. Yesterday I walked around the park with him. Next week we’re taking the grandkids with us. I am truly living life these days.”
According to Betty’s test results, she experienced a 74% improvement in pain
and function, which is consistent with many patients treated at the clinic.
By combining the ancient science of acupuncture with modern medical technology, Be Well Acupuncture reports a 90% success rate in improving neuropathy symptoms.
Each patient begins with a consultation and sensory exam to determine the level of nerve damage. “This helps us understand how much nerve damage has occurred,” Dr. Toni explains. “If someone has more than 95% nerve damage, there is little I can do. I believe in being honest about the limits of treatment.”
When it comes to peripheral neuropathy, early detection greatly improves the chances of recovery.
If you or someone you love is experiencing burning, tingling, numbness, or “pins and needles,” or has recently been diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy, it’s important to know there are options.
THERE IS HOPE.
Make an appointment today and mention this ad for an exclusive patient offer.
Athriving economy is built on more than just commerce. In a community like Oklahoma City, defined by multigenerational family foundations and a “pay-it-forward” culture, we often find ourselves at the intersection of prosperity and purpose. It’s clear that our city’s momentum isn’t just driven by economic growth, but by the intentional ways we invest in one another.
Arvest Bank’s commitment to community is woven into the company’s culture, strategy and mission. The bank, which has been in the Oklahoma City market since 1987, has long understood the importance of supporting the communities it serves. Support isn’t just about providing financial products and services; it’s also about giving back.
“We believe that every community needs a financial partner who cares,” said Shandy Belford, president of Arvest BankCentral Oklahoma. “We want to be a growth engine that helps fuel the success of our neighbors and businesses. A financially healthy community is a thriving community.”
Fuel for Economic Growth
Being an economic growth engine means investing in people, infrastructure and opportunities that make central Oklahoma stronger, Belford explained. “When we provide loans to fund a local project or launch a business, we’re helping build the foundation for long-term growth,” she said. “These are the kinds of investments that strengthen local economies and create ripple effects felt across the region.”
While Arvest is one of the largest privately held banks in the U.S., it operates under a model where local decisions are made by local leaders. In central Oklahoma, the bank has its own leadership team, headed by Belford, and its own board made up of community leaders across the region.
“Relationships are everything,” Belford said. “This operating model allows us to become deeply involved in our communities so we can understand the needs when making decisions on lending and philanthropy.”
A blueprint for a thriving community.
The bank’s commitment to creating opportunities extends beyond transactions. In 2024, Arvest launched EmpowerED, which offers free online financial education courses in English and Spanish. It’s designed to help individuals make informed decisions, from creating a personal budget to developing a business plan.
A Culture of Engagement
Just as a bank provides capital to fund a new bookstore or a downtown landmark, Arvest believes philanthropy provides the social capital necessary for a community’s culture to flourish. Supporting the arts, education and economic development is not just about charity; it’s about being a catalyst for prosperity.
Through the Arvest Foundation, more than $1.2 million in grants has been awarded to central Oklahoma nonprofits supporting education, healthcare, the arts and community development. The bank’s flagship philanthropic initiative, Million Meals, raises money each spring to support local food partners in their efforts to fight hunger in local communities. In 2025, the campaign helped provide more than 3 million
meals across the bank’s four-state footprint of Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri and Kansas.
“When we support these organizations, we are investing in what makes Oklahoma City a great place to live, work and play,” Belford said. “It’s an investment in the quality of life that makes our region attractive to new talent and businesses. And that’s good for everyone.”
The culture of generosity is also lived out by Arvest associates. In 2025, nearly 150 Central Oklahoma associates volunteered more than 2,800 hours in their local communities. Associates are often found reading to students, mentoring entrepreneurs or serving meals at local shelters.
As Arvest looks ahead, its mission remains the same: People helping people find financial solutions for life. “We’re excited about the progress happening in our region, and we’re constantly looking for ways to expand our efforts,” Belford said. “Being a community-focused bank is about taking care of the community that takes care of us.”
Arvest is an Equal Housing Lender and Member FDIC.
Clever Craftsmanship
Britta Thrift partners with design friends to reimagine a 1952 home in Nichols Hills P. 26
The Art of the Renovation
Great design minds converge to create a mid-century masterpiece
BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER PHOTOS BY JUSTIN MIERS
Real estate guru Britta Thrift has updated homes before, but her latest project—a 1952 home with mid-century modern lines—had her dreaming up her biggest ideas yet. She envisioned not only updated rooms but also intriguing features. One example: a hidden mirrored door in the sunroom, opening to reveal a powder bath with (literally) a knockout wallpaper.
“As soon as I got the house under contract, I told my mirror guy, ‘I’m going to figure out a way to put a door in here and make this a hidden door with a mirror on it … I don’t know how I’m going to do it, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. And I’m going to figure it out,'" Thrift said.
The changes Thrift wanted for her home
went beyond a fresh coat of paint. For the more complicated aspects, she enlisted friends, a husband and wife leading their own companies: interior designer Heather Gardner of Omo PreConstruction Services and architect Jeremy Gardner of Gardner Studio.
“It was really important to me to keep the design period appropriate, but just elevate it, update it, make it more cohesive,” said Thrift.
“What we wanted to do was have a timeless approach, in terms of the materiality and the detailing, so that it fit, but still felt like a refresh,” Jeremy Gardner added.
The kitchen required extensive reconfiguration and new cabinetry. Heather Gardner strategically planned the cabinets for
the best storage and usage, accommodating how Thrift would move throughout the space. The large center island has barstools on two sides, making it better for gatherings and good conversation. Such attention to detail—with key areas aligning with Thrift’s lifestyle—was applied throughout the home.
This kitchen was the starting point of the collaborative project; additional needs and ideas grew from there. In the hallway, another hidden door was fabricated to connect the hall and primary bathroom—a clever way to gain more space for the primary suite. Additionally, large wooden panels were added to warm up the living room area and complement the room’s stunning original marble fireplace. Rift sawn
HEATHER GARDNER CUSTOMIZED CABINETRY TO ACCOMMODATE ALL ACTIVITIES, WHILE JEREMY GARDNER EXPERTLY ALIGNED THE WOOD GRAINS.
WHITE WALLS PRIME THE HOME FOR SHOWCASING AN EXTENSIVE ART COLLECTION.
white oak millwork throughout, with matching grain patterns meticulously coordinated by Jeremy Gardner, makes the home’s design feel intentional and cohesive.
“Rift sawn is more linear,” he explained. “The house is linear, so even subtly, it reinforces that mid-century linear quality.”
In the end, Thrift brought in designer Sunshine Gadbary “to get that last little 10% done,” she said. Gadbary coordinated custom drapes in the living room to function on the original tracks. She also introduced more textures throughout the interiors with special touches like custom pillows and sheepskin rugs.
The final result: a unique and beautiful home, brimming with art and character.
Thrift credits her talented team, especially the Gardners, for bringing her ideas to fruition.
“This was a fantastic project. I mean, it’s ultimately my biggest and best yet, and I certainly could not have done it without them,” she said. “I came into it very informed with a pretty clear idea of what I wanted, but they just helped make it that much more informed.”
“There’s a tenacity that Britta brought to the process—and conviction—that was fun to play off of,” Jeremy Gardner said.
“It's really about who you work with and how you work together,” Heather Gardner added. “I think given all of our relationships previous to this project, it just made it that much more fun.”
BOTTOM:
LEFT AND BELOW: WITH AMPLE WINDOWS, THE SUNROOM PROVIDES PEACEFUL POOL VIEWS.
A HALLWAY BOOKSHELF CLEVERLY CONCEALS A DOOR INTO THE PRIMARY SUITE.
THE ARTIST ISSUE
WRITTEN BY
EVIE KLOPP
HOLZER & LAVINIA CRESWA
PORTRAITS BY
CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER
TAYLOR CLARK
DAVID LEE ANDERSON
LEONDRE LATTIMORE
ASHLEY FORREST
EX· PLO· RA· TION IN ART
Four distinct artists come to the canvas with various objectives, informed by individual values and life experiences. Taylor Clark paints in pursuit of processing complicated emotions. Her journey shapes the imagery. David Lee Anderson can't be contained creatively. The multi-talented artist is always producing interesting pieces, both in the visual and performing arts. Leondre Lattimore has garnered national attention with high-profile collaborations and public works. His scenes often depict “people just existing,” a beautiful notion. Ashley Forrest views art as her destiny, and she has arrived. Being creative has proven to be her path to happiness and inner peace. Different perspectives and purposes, of course, result in different art – a vast variety of images, shapes, colors, stories and curiosities. We come to each one through the lens of our own life experiences; wonders abound.
PAGE 31
Taylor Clark’s murals and canvases reflect a collection of deep ruminations. Her art is how she processes emotions, resulting in works she describes as symbolic and “psychologically charged.”
While creating, Clark takes a spontaneous, colordriven approach, selecting vibrant hues that feel good in the moment rather than following a fixed palette. Her paintings also tend to incorporate a sense of movement, mirroring the complexity of working through the ups and downs of one’s inner thoughts.
“My art is not my identity, it’s my exploration,” Clark said. “Mainly it’s like I have a feeling in me that I can’t get out for a couple of weeks, a couple of months, and I’m like, ‘I’ve got to do something about this, to try to put a face to what I’m feeling.’”
Clark grew up in a family where art wasn’t a job title so much as it was a way of being in the world. Painters, seamstresses, photographers and musicians frequented her family home. There was always access to a piano, guitar or camera. Drawing, dressing up and improvising skits were simply what her family did for fun.
Initially drawn to photography, Clark remembers experimenting with images and Photoshop in elementary. By high school, she was taking pictures of friends, then of families and seniors, gradually discovering that people were willing to pay for such services. Still,
she struggled with the business side and never fully committed to professional photography. It wasn’t until college that she discovered her connection to painting.
“When I began painting on my own, something shifted,” she said. “I just felt clarity on wanting to pursue a dream that I couldn’t really see … I started out doing abstracts—really just having a good time in my room during COVID. And then I had opportunities to help work on murals, and that expanded my skill and my vision.”
To date, she has painted walls for several organizations, businesses and communities. Last spring, she was a featured artist in the Sunny Dayz Mural Festival, covering walls along Calle Dos Cinco in the Historic Capitol Hill district of Oklahoma City.
Clark said her relationship with painting is “one of pursuit.” She has developed her artistic skills through repetition, solitude and rigorous practice—teaching her eyes and hands to communicate with precision. The work is not always romantic, she said, but it is work she continues to return to, again and again, with curiosity and courage.
“I’m not one to shy away from deep thoughts or emotions: Why are we here? Why does the world exist? What’s our purpose?” said Clark, adding that her reflective journey continues. “I consider art just another avenue for becoming.”
DAVID LEE ANDERSON
David Lee Anderson is a notable painter and illustrator, but his talents span beyond the visual realm: He is also an author, an actor and a musician. His interests are as varied as the scenes captured in his paintings, from popular Oklahoma landmarks to out-of-this-world space and science fiction themes.
Anderson credits the movies Fantasia and 2001: A Space Odyssey and book The Hobbit for jump-starting his big imagination at a young age. He also remembers when his fourthgrade art teacher submitted his work into an art contest in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Much to his surprise and delight, he won.
“I won $60 for art supplies for our school,” he said. “In 1962, that was a lot of money, and I thought, ‘Oh, people will give you money for this.’”
He launched his art career in the commercial realm, producing custom pieces for client projects. He started out doing grunt work as a paste-up artist for printing companies, but over time he was able to work in different roles and develop his skills.
“Designers would quit, illustrators would quit, and I’d just start doing their jobs—posters, paperback covers, college catalogs. That’s how I learned all the different aspects of being a graphic artist, and got paid for it,” Anderson recalled.
Anderson became a successful science fiction illustrator for writers such as C. J. Cherryh. After collaborating on several book covers, she encouraged him to showcase his work at niche conventions, which helped him increase his professional network of
editors and writers. However, his work and career shifted dramatically with the rise of ebooks.
“When ebooks came out, they didn’t need five-by-eight covers anymore … The whole sales technique of covers drawing people to a book just dissipated,” said Anderson, adding that this was the time he turned his focus to more familiar subjects, painting Oklahoma landscapes and landmarks.
“In 2015, I started doing hyper-realistic art deco and other buildings I really liked,” he said. “People often confuse them for photographs when they see the paintings — that’s how fine they are — but it’s all paint on masonite board.”
Anderson’s creative works and interests have evolved in sync with technology. He uses sophisticated software to create music for his band Starcruisers on his computer. (He plays all of the parts.) He acted in an online treasure hunt series. He helped writer Brent Wheelbarger develop a storyline for the book Folk Secrets, along with providing the book illustrations. Today, Anderson is applying new technology and his latest techniques to a book he first started in the ’70s.
“I’ve been doing fantasy and science fiction work for so long, and I’ve kind of returned to it,” said Anderson. “I’ve learned how to paint a lot better. I know how to get a book published. I did book design by hand in the ’70s; now I can do it all on my computer. With music, I can do everything I used to do in a recording studio in my house. To me, that was the science fiction of my day—that I can do all of this at home. I get up every day, and I’ve got some project going on.”
LEONDRE LATTIMORE
Astar is rising in Oklahoma City and is being celebrated on the national stage. Leondre Lattimore has quickly been making a name for himself both as an artist and as an integral part of Oklahoma City’s public art community. Lattimore has collaborated in the Thunder Artist Group, recently participated in panels hosted by the OKMOA and Oklahoma City University and was just named on the 2026 Forbes 30 Under 30 Art and Style list.
“My life is a story of things just falling into place,” Lattimore said. “I don’t have a choice but to allow that to continue happening.” Like many artists, Lattimore has been drawing since childhood, though he did not explore painting until high school. Born and raised on OKC’s Eastside, Lattimore graduated from Millwood High School before attending Oklahoma City University, where he received a degree in Studio Art. Coming from his predominantly Black high school, OCU was something of a culture shock for Lattimore, even though it is just a few miles away from where he grew up. “I was actually the only Black male in the art school at one point,” Lattimore said. “I was around a lot of talented artists that inspired me, but I noticed no one was creating work that I could really relate to. I wasn’t trying to make my Blackness the center of my art, but I’m inspired by my own life experiences and Black culture. My work began to reflect my community.”
When Lattimore graduated from OCU, becoming an artist was not in his immediate plan. He received a master’s degree from OU in public administration, thinking he might enter politics or government, as he has a passion for policy and social issues. On a whim, Lattimore
applied for a job with the city in the Office of Arts and Cultural Affairs, which he called a “happy marriage between my love of art and my master’s degree.” His primary role is to manage the city’s 1% for Art Program, where one percent of the city’s construction budget is allocated for public art. Lattimore works with artists from around the country to install new and exciting public art throughout the city. “I want us to be known for having a really great art scene.”
And Lattimore is definitely adding to our city’s great art scene with his oil paintings, which he works on nightly after leaving his day job. His current work has a Western and rodeo theme, with some of these pieces included in the current exhibition FramingtheFrontieron view at the Oklahoma Hall of Fame through April 25. “I don't consider myself a cowboy or Western artist, but I like to think of those as a part of a broader story that is Oklahoma. It’s something that makes our culture unique.” Lattimore uses his own photography to capture images that he then incorporates into his oil paintings. Using radiant colors and often simple, contrasting backgrounds, he is able to bring his subjects to life so that the viewer is immersed in the scene. “I try to capture an authentic moment of people just existing,” he said.
Lattimore is a scholar and quite obviously loves Oklahoma, which is evident with every new painting he creates. “I want people to feel a connection to me in some way, knowing there is always a story behind everything I paint,” he concluded. “I have been learning more about the history of arts in Oklahoma, especially the jazz and blues of the ’20s and ’30s. I would love to tell more stories of the talent that came before me.”
Ashley Forrest grew up surrounded by creativity and when asked what she wanted to be, her answer was simple: an artist.
Her introduction to art began when her mother became an interior designer when Forrest was in elementary school. Forrest learned basic color theory and design principles, and afternoons were spent driving through Oklahoma City’s historical neighborhoods discussing architectural elements of the homes. And while Forrest had loved the studio art classes she took in high school, after graduation she found herself working in various sales positions to make ends meet. “The money was good,” she said, “but it was soulless.”
Following a 6,000-mile road trip with her best friend, Forrest realized it was time to make a change. “I grew a garden and started reading works by the Dalai Lama. I knew the only way I could be intrinsically happy was to do good things and feel good about the things I was doing.” Forrest began volunteering for the Homeless Alliance and eventually accepted a full-time position until she was furloughed due to the pandemic. Her long-term boyfriend was opening a luxury retail space downtown and offered to help Forrest open a fine art gallery there as well. She was able to feature local art from artists she had long admired. Forrest created a space that cemented her place in the art community, even after her romantic relationship ended and her professional world was upended.
As a way of dealing with her emotions, Forrest finally picked up her paintbrush again—and has not looked back. “When the gallery was closing, I got an 18-foot-wide canvas and just unleashed all
of my rage on it,” Forrest said. “The piece was called ‘Super Tiger’ and I included it in my last gallery show. I remember a friend being shocked, saying, ‘You had this in you all along?’ and I said, ‘Everyone has two wolves inside them, but I have three tigers.’” *
“Super Tiger” was the first piece of art Forrest sold. “I spent the next eight months growing a garden, working odd jobs and remembering how to paint. I was trying to find my voice and build something that no one could take away from me.”
Forrest now has an instantly recognizable style, reminiscent of Picasso, using vibrant color and bold, abstract shapes on large canvases. “Painting is both a physical and emotional process for me. I work instinctively, allowing gesture, color and shape to guide the narrative as the piece unfolds. It’s like a fun dance to get to paint this way,” she said. Last year she sold 40 original works, had four solo shows and finally fulfilled her dream of becoming a full-time artist.
Forrest works daily from her home studio in Quail Creek, engulfed in sunlight, surrounded by nature. She is an animal lover, with two dogs and a cat as well as a red-eared slider and corn snake, living in enclosures within two beautiful mid-century china cabinets. She is one of the featured ProAm artists at this year’s Festival of the Arts and continually has work on display at Jack Fowler Art World Headquarters and the OKCMOA museum store. Available work is shared on Instagram, and she is embracing “salon-style” shows in private residences. Forrest is the embodiment of a renaissance woman, and has found inner peace by creating incredible art.
FASHION Thrillifying
Emerald green, ruby red and Oz-inspired ensembles dazzle at Glitterball
By Evie Klopp Holzer
Photography by Doug Schwarz
Donning a rainbow of gowns and suits, this year’s Glitterball goers followed the yellow brick road in the most stylish manner. The deadCenter fundraiser prompted attendees to sport their best Oz-inspired attire—and a crowd of creatives never disappoints. The spectacle benefited from several clever costuming collaborations: deadCenter Executive Director Amy Janes was styled by Sarah Beth Moore in shimmering layers of gold, yellow and emerald. Her ensemble was topped off with an Emerald City-like crown, crafted in the shape of the OKC skyline, by prop superstar Mike Walsh. Lestari Kusumawardani, styled by Robert Herrera, rocked a perfectly “good” pale pink ballgown. The swoon-worthy look was completed with sparkling accents: a towering crown and dainty wand (for casting benevolent spells, of course). 405 Magazine Editor Julie Partin dressed up spectacularly for the evening as well. Her feathered hat, show-stopping jade jewelry and emerald gown were all fashioned by Stella Thomas. In addition to emerald green, ruby red proved a popular color theme, worn from slippers on up in different and dazzling assortments. And it wouldn’t feel like the magical world of Oz without our favorite characters; Tin Man, Scarecrow, Dorothy and even Madame Morrible were a few standouts among the playful party scene.
AMY JANES (STYLED BY SARAH BETH MOORE, HAIR BY OHNDREA, CROWN BY MIKE WALSH) & RICHARD JANES, JULIE PARTIN (STYLED BY STELLA THOMAS), URAINA CHANTEL DENNIS-SMITH, SETH LEWIS (MAKEUP BY CARMEN DEVERAUX), AYANNA NAJUMA, LESTARI KUSUMAWARDANI (STYLED BY ROGER HERRERA), SARALYNN SADORRA, KAYLENE SNARKSY & JASON PARKS, ANNA ROGNAS (STYLED BY VALERIE PARKER), STEPHANIE PENA (STYLED BY ARMANDO ORTIZ), AQUILINO & ADRIANA CHAVES, AMBER FOSTER, BETHANY SCOTT, & ASHLEY FORREST (STYLED BY AUBREY BALLARD), DEONNA MARIE (STYLED BY ELIZABETH SPENCER)
Oklahoma City Museum & Gallery Guide
With a rich cultural history and creatively gifted residents, central Oklahoma has an impressive assortment of treasures on display and wonders to experience. Consider this roundup encouragement to enjoy some of the metro’s finest art galleries and museums.
1515 Lincoln Gallery
1515 N. Lincoln Blvd., OKC
1515 Lincoln Gallery is a vibrant collection of contemporary and estate art in a beautifully restored 1920s-era house along Lincoln Boulevard. Guided by founder Susan McCalmont’s passion for fostering art education and meaningful connections, the gallery contains an eclectic array of modern and secondary market art from across the globe.
Oklahoma National Guard Museum
2145 NE 36th St., OKC
Formerly known as the 45th Infantry Division Museum, this space boasts an extensive collection of military artifacts that offer a captivating journey through the state’s rich military history, including Oklahoma’s esteemed division proudly recognized as the Thunderbirds. Through meticulously curated exhibits, the museum recounts the tales and pivotal moments of the Oklahoma Air and Army National Guard.
50 Penn Place Gallery
1900 NW Expressway, OKC
Located in the mall of the same name, the 50 Penn Place Gallery is owned by 12 professional artists whose works are also on display in the gallery, including pieces by Bert Seabourn, Connie Seabourn, Tim Sullivan and others. In addition to the work of the owner-artists, the gallery features pieces from guest artists, and at regularly scheduled art openings, the creators are present to introduce and talk about their work.
American Banjo Museum
9 E. Sheridan Ave., OKC
The American Banjo Museum spans 21,000 square feet and is dedicated to celebrating the heritage, essence and potential of the banjo. Within its halls, visitors will encounter a treasure trove of over 400 instruments, recordings, film, video, printed music, instructional materials, ephemera and memorabilia, all curated to enlighten guests on details of the American banjo’s ongoing legacy.
ARTSPACE at Untitled
1 NE 3rd St., OKC
Laura Warriner took a chance on the old warehouse district downtown before many people were aware of the area’s potential. Located in Deep Deuce, the focus at ARTSPACE is contemporary art, but the purpose is to create a communal space with quality exhibitions, educational programs, performances, publications and dialogues with the community.
DNA Galleries
1709 NW 16th St., OKC
It’s celebrating 18 years in the Plaza District this year, and in that time the artists operating the space have featured new, established and emerging artists, welcomed the community to openings, exhibits and conversations and provided a space for local artists to display and sell their work. Some of OKC’s most popular local creators have started their careers at DNA.
Edmond Fine Arts
27 E Edwards St, Edmond, OK 73034
Located in the heart of downtown Edmond, the lovely and welcoming Edmond Fine Arts is a nonprofit community arts organization dedicated to inspiring creativity and enriching lives through the visual and performing arts. It provides high-quality classes and experiences for children and adults, making art accessible, exciting, and inclusive. The gallery features a new exhibit each month.
Exhibit C Gallery
645 First Americans Blvd., OKC
This Chickasaw-owned operation is both gallery and retail space for First American artwork and artisan works such as jewelry, pottery and clothing, all made by Native American artists. It also offers a brokerage service to assist in locating traditional Native American art among its wide range of creators.
Factory Obscura, via Dylan Johnson
Factory Obscura Mix-Tape
25 NW 9th St., OKC
The immersive art experience in the popular NW 9th Street area just off Automobile Alley was installed and is operated by local artists, for an experience modeled on New Mexico’s interactive Meow Wolf.
Firehouse Art Center
444 S. Flood Ave., Norman
Housed in a repurposed fire station, this non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation has evolved into a dynamic space featuring professional visual arts studios, adult and youth education programs, a permanent gift shop and a dedicated exhibition gallery. Serving as a vital hub for art education, the Firehouse is a leading provider of programming in Norman’s public elementary schools and actively partners with community events, engaging thousands of individuals annually with its diverse range of offerings.
First Americans Museum
659 First Americans Blvd., OKC
This decades-in-the-making project collects myths, artifacts, personal reflections, art and tributes to the 39 Native American Nations who are part of the museum’s grand narrative. Exhibit halls for all ages are on the grounds, as well as outdoor features, an excellent restaurant and guided tours.
Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art
555 Elm Ave., Norman
Located on the campus of the University of Oklahoma, this is one of the finest university art museums in the country. The permanent collection of more than 20,000 objects features Native American art (4,500 objects), French Impressionism and art of the American Southwest.
Harn Homestead
1721 N. Lincoln Blvd., OKC
The Harn Homestead stands as a cherished Oklahoma gem, offering a window into the territorial history of Oklahoma City. Within its grounds, visitors are transported back in time to experience the elegance of a Victorian home paired with the resourceful values of territorial farm families.
Howell Gallery of Fine Art
6432 N. Western Ave., OKC
Near Nichols Hills on N. Western Avenue, it has been featuring local, regional and nationally recognized artists since 1991. The gallery houses a broad cross-section of media, including painting, sculpture, glass, ceramics and more.
JRB Art at the Elms
2810 N. Walker Ave., OKC
The artistic hub of the Paseo Arts District is the creation of Joy Reed Belt, whose lifelong dedication to the Paseo has kept it one of the city’s most beloved hyper-local districts. The roster of artists includes established and emerging professionals, and the gallery always participates in the monthly First Friday Art Walk.
Mabee-Gerrer Museum of Art
1900 W. MacArthur St., Shawnee
After St. Gregory’s University in Shawnee shuttered in 2017, Oklahoma Baptist University acquired the property and chose to keep the Mabee-Gerrer Museum open. Founded just over 100 years ago, the museum’s collections include artifacts from Egypt, ancient Greece, Rome, East Asia, Oceania and Africa, as well as visual arts from the Renaissance through the early 20th century.
MAINSITE Contemporary Art
122 E. Main St., Norman
Since its relocation to MAINSITE Contemporary Art in 2012, the Norman Arts Council has been a vibrant hub for artistic expression. Showcasing the talents of both local and international artists, it’s curated numerous exhibitions and welcomed renowned performers like Nick Murphy (Chet Faker), No Age and Mutual Benefit. Within MAINSITE, the Library Gallery offers a platform for emerging artists to present experimental and cuttingedge work, fostering creativity and innovation in the arts scene.
Moore-Lindsay Historical House Museum
508 N. Peters Ave., Norman
Step into the past at the Moore-Lindsay Historical House Museum, a cherished gem operated by the Cleveland County Historical Society (CCHS). This meticulously preserved Victorian home offers a captivating glimpse into the history of Norman and Cleveland County, focusing on the period from 1890 to 1910. With a dedicated mission to provide a welcoming, engaging and educational experience, the Moore-Lindsay House invites visitors to delve into the fascinating narrative of Norman, Cleveland County and the Oklahoma Territory.
First Americans Museum
National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum
1700 NE 63rd St., OKC
The museum is often referred to as “The Cowboy Hall of Fame” among locals, and while it is a hall of fame for professional cowboys, it’s also home to stunning artwork by Frederic Remington and Charles Russell, as well as important collections of Native American art and artifacts.
National Weather Museum & Science Center
1200 W. Rock Creek Road, Norman
Experience the awe-inspiring world of weather at the National Weather Museum and Science Center, a nonprofit dedicated to preserving meteorological artifacts, advancing education and celebrating groundbreaking innovations in the field.
Oklahoma City Museum of Art
415 Couch Drive, OKC
Located in the heart of downtown, the OKCMOA is known primarily for its Dale Chihuly collection, including a stunning 55-foot sculpture that welcomes museum guests. In addition to Chihuly, the permanent collection includes works from the Colonial period to contemporary artists.
Oklahoma Hall of Fame/ Gaylord-Pickens Museum
1400 Classen Drive, OKC
The Gaylord-Pickens Museum is one program within the lovely, stately facility near NW 13th Street and Shartel Avenue. In keeping with the vision of the Hall of Fame, the museum introduces visitors to famous Oklahomans from politics to pop culture via interactive exhibits. The museum is designed to be educational and entertaining for all ages.
Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum
620 N. Harvey Ave., OKC
Documenting the events and commemorating the victims, first responders, families and all those affected by the horrific Murrah Building Bombing of April 19, 1995, is the mission of this stunning museum and memorial. The interactive museum is a walkthrough of the details surrounding the heinous act, the heroic efforts to rescue survivors and the story of the city’s successful drive to rebuild in the wake of disaster.
Oklahoma Contemporary
11 NW 11th St., OKC
Oklahoma Contemporary’s new $30 million home on the north end of Automobile Alley is itself a work of art, catching the morning
and evening sun on its metal exterior. Contemporary art is displayed inside and out, and the space is designed to be an interactive, educational community. Café Contemporary inside the center is a popular downtown eatery, with vegan, vegetarian and omnivore options.
Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum
2716 NE 50th St., OKC
Established in 1967, the Oklahoma State Firefighters Museum stands to honor the rich heritage of the Oklahoma Fire Service. The museum proudly showcases a diverse array of exhibits and features artifacts spanning centuries, including collections from the esteemed London Fire Brigade.
Oklahoma History Center Museum
800 Nazih Zuhdi Drive, OKC
The official caretakers of Oklahoma’s past, including artifacts, interactive components, testimonies, narratives, arts, etc., the museum tells the story of Oklahoma and Oklahomans in a collection of galleries and exhibits. Areas covered include topics as diverse as Oklahomans in space, the African American experience, free enterprise in the state and the stories of our Indigenous peoples.
Sam Noble Oklahoma Museum of Natural History
2401 Chautauqua Ave., Norman
Located on the campus of the University of Oklahoma, the Sam Noble has been entertaining and informing visitors since before statehood. The museum is divided into categories — dinosaurs are in the Hall of Ancient Life, for example — to make planning easier. Permanent and traveling exhibits include collections related to arts, culture, Indigenous peoples, energy and natural wonders.
Science Museum Oklahoma
2020 Remington Place, OKC
This 400,000-square-foot science museum is one of the largest of its kind, and it’s been a favorite field trip destination for generations of Oklahomans. The Science Floor is where most of the fun occurs, with its hundreds of interactive, educational displays, but there is more exploring to be done in additional galleries and the Love's Planetarium.
Skeletons: Museum of Osteology
10301 S. Sunnylane Road, OKC
This science museum proudly showcases an extensive collection of more than 450 authentic skeletons sourced from across the globe. At Skeletons: Museum of Osteology, the team offers engaging experiences for families and valuable educational resources for school groups, all centered around the exploration of the intricate form and functions of skeletal systems.
Tribes Gallery
512 W. Main St., Norman
Tribes is where art comes alive with the spirit of Oklahoma’s rich heritage. As the premier destination for Native American, Oklahoman and Western art, Tribes Gallery is committed to delivering exceptional experiences since its establishment opened in 1990.
Wildfire Gallery
3005 Paseo, OKC
Located in the Paseo Arts District, Wildfire Gallery embodies the essence of contemporary Western art, showcasing a curated selection of local masterpieces and artisan treasures. Its distinctive “New West” collection captivates both admirers and collectors.
ON THE EDGE:
Closing April 12, 2026
DINING
Long Live Ling Long
Fresh new fusion in the Asian District
BY MATT KIROUAC PHOTOS BY RACHEL MAUCIERI
From the cornerstone restaurants lining the Asian District to the recent resurgence of sushi and izakaya spots, Oklahoma City’s Asian dining scene has long been rich and vast. And yet, there’s a sense of unexplored originality to the newest arrival in the Asian District, where ornate, gate-like doors open to reveal a world of new-school tradition at Ling Long.
It bills itself as an Asian fusion restaurant, but the genre feels almost simplistic for all the artistry and ambition woven into every detail of the space, from the koi installations swimming along the ceiling and the intricate murals depicting the pastoral Chinese countryside to the depth of the menu itself, hitting all the high notes of familiar Chinese favorites while defining its own culinary path in a neighborhood known for pho and dumplings. The authentic novelty of it all begins with those first steps, through a portal-like doorway into a dining room outfitted with cozy
booths, decadent artwork and even custom chopsticks branded with the restaurant’s name.
It’s all courtesy of Chef Chi, the chef/owner of Takaramono. After opening that izakaya in the Plaza District last year, fresh after moving to OKC from New York, the Hong Kong native is quietly—but quickly— making a name for himself as a restaurateur to watch. As I dined at Ling Long, he even noted more Asian restaurants planned for the near future, including a hibachi and sushi concept for The Village. But first, he’s bringing some serious wow factor with Ling Long, delivering a dining experience that’s more atmospheric than anything else in the Asian District, while serving up some show-stopping dishes and desserts.
Drawn to OKC for its vibrant and growing community, Chi saw a gap in the local Asian dining scene—one that married authentic and affordable food with interior design. “Me and my partner designed the space,” he
says, replacing the former Hot Pot Heroes with ceiling paintings, koi and bathroom doors designed to look like an Asian palace. “This is the whole concept; it’s kind of like a palace in Asia. It’s luxury, but we still offer affordable food for the city.”
Even the menu cover opens like palace doors, revealing dishes from China, Malaysia, Singapore and more. Along with pitch-perfect renditions of crowd-pleasing classics, like seafood-studded fried rice and sweetand-sour pork served in a hollowed-out pineapple, you’ll find steaming crocks of rattan pepper and fish soup; cumin lamb skewers with mint jelly; and pork rib soup with dry squid and mushroom. Even something as recognizable as calamari, fried to a toothsome crisp under a sprinkling of salt and pepper, somehow feels revelatory and new. The desserts, in particular, are works of art unlike anything in town, Asian or otherwise. These include the Ling Long Blossom, a jasmine and matcha pudding
medley topped with a beautiful milk blossom, and the Berry & Pandan Harmony, a blend of pandan and purple sweet potato jelly noodles swirled with soft mochi, red bean boba and fresh strawberries.
For Chef Chi, it’s all in the details, from the textures of the noodles and the aroma of the broths to the equally intricate—and wholly transportive—decor. And for hungry diners, Ling Long marks a new era in the Asian District.
LEFT TO RIGHT: FRIED RICE, SWEET AND SOUR PORK IN PINEAPPLE, DINING ROOM, AND ANGUS BEEF AND LAMB SKEWERS AT LING LONG
High Tea Reaches New Heights
A time-honored treat at The National
BY MATT KIROUAC PHOTOS BY RACHEL MAUCIERI
Even in OKC, high tea never goes out of fashion. But at The National, there’s something extra-special about sharing lavender goat cheese biscuits and raspberry cream puffs in an ornate lobby, originally built as a bank building in 1931, reminiscent of a European palace.
The grandiosity of the Great Hall is what makes high tea at The National such a spectacle, even as the pricing stays affordable. And from lobster salad to funfetti, it’s the perfect blend of novelty and nostalgia, displayed on tiered platters that are just as decadent as the soaring columns lining the hall.
“We don’t have a lot of spaces like this in Oklahoma,” explained Mac Barnes, food and beverage manager. “Being able to sit in the Great Hall, with the giant columns, and have a leisurely tea time with your friends— it’s special.”
While the high tea offerings rotate throughout the year to fit different themes and seasons, guests can always expect a bit of pageantry and pomp. For winter, a recent tea service had the theme “BesTEA Era,”
complete with DIY friendship bracelets, heart-shaped sunglasses and Valentine’s-inspired treats like raspberry-chocolate bonbons. Other themed teas have included a Wicked-inspired Defying Gravi-Tea, where costumes were encouraged, and the popular Holiday Tea, made all the more magical by the giant Christmas tree in the Great Hall. Next up, spring kicks off a Princess Royal-Tea, with princess visits and fairytaleinspired treats, set to run through May 9.
No matter the theme, guests are made to feel like royalty, starting with Prosecco for adults and blood orange lemonade for kids, before they’re greeted with tiered trays of scratch-made savories and sweets. These include lobster salad, lavender goat cheese biscuits, caprese skewers and fig and brie tartlets, while confections include macarons, cream puffs, salted caramel tarts and vanilla and lemon scones. Guests get two pots (per pair) of their tea of choice, and they can also order anything off the Tellers menu, including cocktails.
High tea is available at The National Friday-Sunday from 1 to 4 p.m. The cost is $30 for children, and $55 per adult.
PHOTO BY TANVEER BADAL
Step Inside the Cowboy Experience
The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum's newest immersive experience
BY LAVINIA CRESWA
The National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum has been a mustsee for visitors and Oklahomans alike since it was founded in 1955. Its mission statement is to “preserve and interpret the evolving history and cultures of the American West for the education and enrichment of its diverse audience of adults and children.” This mission is completely fulfilled with the current exhibit, The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey, which is a whole new way to experience American Western history.
To create The Cowboy, the museum partnered with Lighthouse Immersive,
producers of the wildly successful Immersive Van Gogh. A gallery within the museum has been completely transformed into a captivating 360-degree environment. Guests are able to be present in the middle of the exhibition, surrounded by sound and light projections where the walls and floor are working in tandem.
With narration by Tom Selleck, The Cowboy exhibition is guided by the story of real-life cowboy Jack Bailey as he took part in a cattle drive from north Texas through the Indian Territory now known as Oklahoma and into Kansas in 1868. Bailey kept a journal
which recorded details of his experience as well as aspects of the team of cowboys he traveled with and information about his herd, which was likely made up of between 1,500 and 2,000 animals. The original journal is a part of the museum’s permanent collection; following the exhibit, guests are able to flip through a digitized version to read the authentic observations of this working cowboy from over 150 years ago.
Visitors will experience the American West through five chapters, beginning with the land before these cattle drives and the beginning of the cowboy story, to rodeos and
Wild West shows, to Hollywood legends. The program concludes by demonstrating the determination and enduring spirit of modernday cowboys.
Seth Spillman, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer, encouraged everyone to experience The Cowboy if they are able. “The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey is something completely new and unexpected,” Spillman said. “It places you inside the sights, sounds and stories of the West in a way you cannot experience anywhere else, and we are excited to bring this world-class event to Oklahoma City for both visitors and locals.
We are offering later hours Thursday through Saturday to allow those who are working or in school on weekdays to come experience the immersive [exhibit] and everything else the museum has to offer.”
The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey is approximately 40 minutes; it has multiple showtimes daily and is appropriate for both children and adults of all ages. The exhibition is a separately ticketed experience, in addition to the museum entrance, however members receive discounted pricing. There is also a VIP experience which includes priority entry and exclusive memorabilia. The exhibition will
be put on hiatus May 3 to accommodate the annual Prix de West Invitational Art Sale and Exhibition, and will re-open on July 25, which is also National Day of the Cowboy. The Cowboy will close permanently in December of this year, and is scheduled to then be on display across Europe.
For more details on The Cowboy: An Immersive Journey or to purchase tickets, visit nationalcowboymuseum.org.
A Moon in Flight
Dance legend Yvonne Chouteau soared into history
BY LINDA MILLER PHOTO COURTESY OF OKLAHOMA HISTORICAL SOCIETY
Yvonne Chouteau started dancing when she was a child, and those early twirls and plies marked the beginning of what would become a celebrated life and career that would earn her applause and recognition around the world.
Born in 1929, she grew up in Vinita. After seeing renowned ballerina Alexandra Danilova perform in Oklahoma City, she knew she wanted to dance onstage, too. Chouteau studied at the School of American Ballet in New York, and in 1943—at just 14 years old—she signed her first professional contract with the acclaimed Ballet Russe de Monte Carlo.
She is recognized as the youngest American to join the group and the youngest dancer in history to turn professional. She was with the company for 14 years, dancing in Gaite
Parisienne, The Nutcracker, Romeo and Juliet, Giselle and more. Her graceful motion and alluring expression captivated all who watched.
In 1947 she was inducted into the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, becoming its youngest member at age 18. She already had an impressive background: She had made her first public appearance back in 1933 when the Oklahoma Memorial Association, precursor to the Oklahoma Hall of Fame, invited the 3-yearold to ride on a float in the Silver Anniversary Statehood Day parade in Oklahoma City.
Soon after that she made her first national appearance in Chicago when she represented Oklahoma on American Indian Day. Then in 1935 she stood in for Oklahoma Gov. E.W. Marland at the San Diego Exposition.
Chouteau was becoming quite a young
celebrity. In 1941 the state legislature made her the official Daughter of Oklahoma, Good Will Ambassadress from Oklahoma to the World at Large.
Born Myra Yvonne Chouteau, she was the great-great-great granddaughter of Major Jean-Pierre Chouteau, who in 1796 established Oklahoma’s oldest white settlement near Salina. It was the first non-native-American settlement in Oklahoma. Decades later, her life would become just as interesting as her history-making relative’s.
Listed as Shawnee on the Cherokee roll, she was one of the Five Moons, a distinguished group of Native ballerinas from Oklahoma who became known worldwide in the 20th century. Along with Chouteau, the group included Moscelyne Larkin, Rosella Hightower and sisters Maria Tallchief and Majorie Tallchief.
Ballet was Chouteau’s passion, and she wanted to introduce it to girls and young women. She and her husband Miguel Terekhov became artists-in-residence at the University of Oklahoma in 1960 and founded OU’s School of Dance, the first fully accredited dance program in the United States.
In 1963, the couple opened the Oklahoma City Civic Ballet with assistance from local philanthropists John and Eleanor Kirkpatrick. Chouteau and her husband served as artistic directors for 10 years. The dance company later was renamed the Oklahoma City Ballet.
As an adult, Chouteau continued to receive numerous honors. To celebrate Oklahoma’s bicentennial in 1976, she performed at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., and in 1997 Gov. Frank Keating designated her an Oklahoma Treasure. In 1991 a mural of the five Oklahoma prima ballerinas was unveiled at the state Capitol. Titled “Flight of Spirit,” the mural was painted by Chickasaw artist Mike Larsen.
Chouteau also was honored with the inaugural National Cultural Treasures Award in 2004 when the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of the American Indian opened in Washington, D.C. In 2007, five bronze sculptures titled the “Five Moons” were unveiled on the west lawn of the Tulsa Historical Society, now named the Museum of Tulsa History.
At age 86, Chouteau died Jan 24, 2016, in Oklahoma City. Her talent, influence and presence continue to impress and inspire.
ACCLAIMED BALLET DANCER YVONNE CHOUTEAU
PAYNE, @MATTPAYNETRAVELPHOTOGRAPHY
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Millennium Lounge at 4709 N. Western is set to expand to Bricktown. The popular spot offers craft cocktails, local breweries on tap and elevated traditional bar foods, along with a large outdoor space with a ’90s theme. The new spot will be the former site of The Mantel at 201 E. Sheridan, a prominent corner in Bricktown. Will feature the same menu but offer more live music with indoor and outdoor stages, an outside booth for walk-up food orders and a significant patio area. Longerterm plans include a rooftop bar. Millennium hopes to open this June.”
- OKC TALK
OKC Thunder are unreal. Despite being the youngest squad in the league, they entered March 2026 with the NBA’s best winning percentage (.762–.766 range). First team ever to win a title (2025) … then post an even better record the next year with an average age under 25. Dynasty loading? #ThunderUp #NBA”
- TRIFECTA SPORT
Today we dedicated a new landmark in OKC—‘Cloud Embrace’ in United Way Plaza in Bricktown! Our city is already known nationally for our public art, and we continue to add to our portfolio. ‘Cloud Embrace’ is by Joseph O’Connell and Creative Machines, and it is a gift of Visit OKC and the Inasmuch Foundation. ‘Cloud Embrace’ is a perfect setting for visitors to create photographic memories of their visit to OKC.”
