April 2024 Issue

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30 Creation Inspiration

Discover the insights and perspectives driving these four Oklahoma artists.

40 Museum & Gallery Guide

From renowned institutions to local gems, explore the state's vibrant museum and art gallery scene.

CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

Home

PUBLISHER

Kendall Morgan Hammack kendall.morgan@405magazine.com

VICE PRESIDENT

Kaley Regas kaley@hilltopmediagroup.com

EDITOR IN CHIEF

Julie Partin julie.partin@405magazine.com

ART DIRECTOR

Cadence Ramos cadence.ramos@405magazine.com

EDITOR

MANAGING

Kaylin Hill kaylin.hill@405magazine.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Lavinia Creswa, Jake Durham, Kristen Grace, Bennett Hill, Evie Klopp Holzer, Matt Kirouac, Linda Miller

CONTRIBUTING

PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kennon Bryce, Rachel Maucieri, Charlie Neuenschwander

PRODUCTION DIRECTOR

Meagan Matthews meagan@hilltopmediagroup.com

ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE

Lisa Munson

EDITORIAL INTERN

Caroline Sprague

DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Drew Smith drew.smith@405magazine.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

Vanda Holland vanda.holland@405magazine.com

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Honoring the Spark of Creativity

WHERE DOES INSPIRATION COME FROM?

Working in an artistic field that requires a constant churning of ideas, one of the most valuable skills I have learned is to be keenly aware of the feeling of being inspired. I believe that certain aspects of creativity are divine and cannot be forced.

It can come from a song, painting, sunset, conversation, performance, television show, podcast — anywhere, really. But something in your soul is stirred in a new way. Sometimes you are moved to tears but sometimes it is nothing more than knowing your mind is experiencing the profound. A rule that I have for myself and our team at 405 Magazine is to recognize that feeling and chase it down until you see what it is about that piece of art or that moment that’s resonating.

Years before taking over as Editor-in-Chief at 405 I had a similar job at a teenage girls’ publication. Its reach was huge and international, and I took the idea of shaping readers’ young minds very seriously. During a long summer drive the song “Scars to Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara played over my car speakers.

“She don’t see her perfect

She don’t understand she’s worth it

Or that beauty goes deeper than the surface, oh-oh, oh-oh

So to all the girls that’s hurting

Let me be your mirror

Help you see a little bit clearer

The light that shines within

There’s a hope that’s waiting for you in the dark

You should know you’re beautiful just the way you are

And you don’t have to change a thing

The world could change its heart

No scars to your beautiful

We’re stars and we’re beautiful.”

Even though I had heard the song before, in that moment it struck me in a profound way. The hundreds of thousands (sometimes millions) of young women that engaged with our magazine did not need more fashion and makeup tips. They needed confidence that came from within and appreciation for their natural beauty and internal worth. The next week our team had a meeting and changed the entire direction of our editorial content. The readers loved it, and I am so thankful for the moment of inspiration that sparked the movement.

In our beautiful cover feature this month, Evie Klopp Holzer and Lavinia Creswa sat down with four talented local fine artists and discovered their drastically different motivations and inspirations. Charlie Neuenschwander did a breathtaking job of capturing the artists in their elements. This feature shows us that from having fun, to rule breaking, to financial prosperity, the instigating force behind art can vary greatly (pg. 30).

Also in this issue we are thrilled to introduce you to OKC’s own Dr. Dolittle, who has taken our local zoo to an internationally acclaimed level (pg. 20), and you can find plenty of visual and cultural enrichment through the Museum and Galleries Guide (pg. 40).

In food news we cover the history of one of Oklahoma’s best dishes, the onion burger (pg. 52) and an authentic Japanese sushi pub making waves near Lake Hefner (pg. 50).

Since I wrote this before going on maternity leave and am currently — as of the issue hitting newsstands and mailboxes — out of the office, much continued appreciation to the 405 Magazine team for executing the final portion of this lovely issue and keeping everything running smoothly as I navigate the sleepless nights and soak up the newborn cuddles!

Enjoy the always eventful OKC April and remember to chase inspiration — you never know where it will lead.

Sincerely,

Partin EDITOR

Julie

IN CHIEF

SOME OF MY FAVORITE ART FROM MY LITTLE ARTISTS

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TRENDING

A Cultural Crown Jewel

Oklahoma City Zoo's growth and conservation efforts under the leadership of Dr. Dwight Lawson. p. 20

Bright for Brunch

Time to dine, dish and dazzle

BY BENNETT HILL

lace. And no more bland bags; bring a coordinating clutch to draw the eye

1. Sunshine Tienda, Palm Hat; Refi nery

2. Alemais, Sophie O -Shoulder Dress; Gretta Sloane

3. Valerie Naifeh Design, Diamond Y Necklace; Naifeh Fine Jewelry

4. Ippolita, Large 3-Stone Drop Earrings; BC Clark

5. Vince Footwear, Venice Metallic Leather Slingback; Edit & Co.

6. Poppy and Sage, Lizzie Grass Clutch; Betsy King Shoes

THE MOST CASUALLY SOPHISTICATED OF MEALS, brunch is a time to come together to share laughs, memories and unforgettable moments — ideally paired with unforgettable looks. One can never be too stylish for brunch, so why not go all out? An off-the-shoulder dress blends sass and class elevated with a statement earring and draping necklace. And no more bland bags; bring a coordinating clutch to draw the eye and tie in your accessories. Brunch is the time to go all out, taking risks with splashes of color and blended textures, all in the comfort of good friends and a good mimosa.

Greater OKC Asian Chamber of Commerce

1st Birthday

The Greater Oklahoma City Asian Chamber of Commerce celebrated its first birthday on Jan. 25 at Sailor & the Dock, where approximately 250 chamber members, sponsors and community and business leaders attended the event. Mayor David Holt was the guest speaker, and Lt. Governor and Secretary of Workforce Development Matt Pinnell attended as a guest of honor.

PHOTOS BY NADIA SILVA

Jacqueline Sit, Alba Weaver, Spencer Browne

Theresa Le, Tasneem Al-Michael, Cassie Kalancha, Anthony Taylor

John Lee, Sang Tran, Angelique Morton, Keith Horn

Mayor David Holt

Crystal Palone, Paul An, Andres Carrillo, Ernest Abrogar, Tasneem Al-Michael, Cassie Kalancha, Mary Nhin, Victor Flores, Scarlet Le-Cao, Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell, Valorie J Filippo, Daniel Pae, Jacqueline Sit ,Thao Nguyen-Pham, Chante Sourignavong

Monique Walker and Elianna Huang

Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell

Chrichelle Fernandez, Ervintha Dhevi, Crystal Palone, Alicia Jackson, Thao Nguyen-Pham, Valorie J Filippo, Theresa Le Kang and Mary Nhin, Tamar Mazor, Dewayne Thompson

Bubbles & Bids

PHOTOS BY BROOKE JONES WITH STUDIOONSITE.COM

The 7th annual Bubbles & Bids gala in support of Wings A Special Needs Community was held Feb. 17 at the Omni in Oklahoma City. Wings was able to kick off its 20th anniversary with nearly 500 attendees from the Oklahoma City community present to support adults with developmental disabilities. Wings Member Cassie Olson led the assembled in prayer, Joni Nash was the auctioneer, former Miss Oklahoma Ashleigh Robinson was the emcee and guests enjoyed sounds from electric cellist Sam Kahre.

David and Penny Harper, Wings Executive Director Cheri Weaver and Brian Weaver

Linda Cavanaugh and Laura Brockwell

Wings members and staff: left to right, Raeann Case, Lori Ray, Cassie Olson, James Price, Kayla Winterland, Kristin Ford, Jeff Reed and Nicole Kanelakos

Cody and Allison Valentine representing gold sponsors Church Insurance Specialists

Kevin and Michele Hill

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Window coverings add beauty to a room, and consumers sometimes need guidance regarding current styles and trends, functionality, budgeting assistance, and the benefits of one model over another. “We recently worked with a couple that needed west-facing window coverings for their new home,” said owners Allyson and Joe Zupin. “They wanted energy-efficient shades that could help keep the record-breaking heat out of their home this summer. We recommended the Hunter Douglas Duette.”

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The Man Behind OKC’s Nationally Acclaimed Zoo

Dr. Dwight Lawson takes animal conservation and innovation to the next level

BY KRISTEN GRACE | PHOTOS BY CHARLIE NEUENSCHWANDER

ALMOST ANY LIFELONG RESIDENT OF CENTRAL OKLAhoma can regale you with fond memories of trips to the Oklahoma City Zoo growing up, usually as part of family or school field trips. As adults, we bring our own children and out-of-state guests … along with the occasional trip that’s just for ourselves. The Oklahoma City Zoo is one of our state’s cultural crown jewels, hosting over a million visitors a year, covering 130 acres and housing close to 2,000 animals. Its latest accomplishment has been the opening of Expedition Africa this March, coordinated and overseen by Dr.

Dwight Lawson, the CEO and executive director of the Oklahoma City Zoo since 2014. This new project has been completed alongside the growth and expansion of the zoo’s tremendous conservation efforts around the world, as well as involvement with the community.

Lawson explained some of the Expedition Africa features he is most excited about: “This is our latest and greatest project. We’ve invested over $32 million and it covers over 13 acres. It includes a large savannah area for the giraffes and the new giraffe farm. It homes 37 animals new to our zoo

from Africa — 60 species altogether, big and small, from giraffes to naked mole rats, fi sh and reptiles to dwarf mongoose. It’s got something for everyone. One of the things that I am most proud of is that we renovated the old pachyderm building that was originally built in the late 1960s. Many people in the community have fond memories of that building growing up. We reconverted that building into a dual-purpose space for private events, retaining two-thirds of it for the smaller animals.”

The zoo couldn’t undertake such a grand endeavor alone. “To do a project of this magnitude,” Lawson said, “we needed community support, and we have a great partner in the Oklahoma Zoological Society. We also get historic tax credits. We have the Fractional Sales Tax that off sets the price of admissions, allowing the Oklahoma City Zoo to have one of the lowest gate prices in the country. And we have an all-hands-on-deck attitude with staff and the community that helps us achieve these kinds of projects — and I’m excited to say that we have more in store for the future.”

When asked about what led him to this path in life, working in conservation ecology and as a director of a zoo, Lawson said that he grew up fascinated with turtles and snakes. He chose a biology degree in college, and in his sophomore year, he found himself in an ecology course with a captivating professor who did a lot of work in Central America. “I took a field course with him in Costa Rica, allowing me to study wildlife in the tropics. After graduating, I went back to grad school and ran a conservationist program in Africa. Wrapping up my Ph.D. program, I found a job in Atlanta that gave me the opportunity to learn the zoo world, as well as use my background in conservation.”

Speaking of that background, in January of this year, the nonprofit citizen diplomacy network Sister Cities International presented Lawson with its Global Vision Humanitarian Award, honoring his efforts to connect Oklahomans with vanishing wildlife and wild places around the globe and to spur conservation. “Zoos and aquariums contribute more than $250 million a year to conservation in the field — wildlife conservation groups in the field; specific programs that we spearhead,” he said. “The Oklahoma City Zoo supports conservation efforts in 117 countries around the world. Conservation is more than a goal at the Oklahoma City Zoo; it’s a fundamental part of our mission that every employee shares. We are proud to contribute to the preservation of our magnificent planet, its ecosystems and its wildlife for generations yet to come.”

Led by his vision, the Oklahoma City Zoo continues to grow in reach as it sends its staff across the world every year to learn about and support animal conservation. It also digs deep into the fi bers of our community, collaborating with other institutions such as First Americans Museum with installations that teach respect for animals and culture. Our zoo is more than a day’s amusement; it is one of our most precious resources.

7:30

2:00

Oral Cancer Awareness

Turn your mind to your mouth this month

BY LAVINIA CRESWA

YOU PROBABLY KNOW THAT PROPER ORAL HYGIENE is important in keeping your gums healthy and your chompers white. But have you ever wondered what the dentist is doing when she grabs your tongue, pulls it out of your mouth and peers inside? Amanda Venk, DDS, a dentist at Norman Family Dentistry, explained that dentists “fi rst check for swollen lymph nodes under the jaw line. Then we check the soft tissues around and inside the mouth including the lips, cheeks, gums, tongue, floor of mouth, hard and soft palate, tonsils and throat. We’re looking for asymmetrical changes in color and shape, and we’ll also examine the radiographs for any abnormalities.”

One of the things dentists are looking for with this exam is any sign of oral cancer, which is the sixth most common cancer worldwide. Over 5,000 Americans are diagnosed with oral cavity or oropharyngeal cancers annually, and April is Oral Cancer Awareness Month.

The salivary glands as well as everything Venk listed above can be at risk for cancer. There are multiple risk factors associated with oral cancers, with the highest being any kind of tobacco use. Alcohol use, excess body weight, ultraviolet light and poor nutrition all have links to oral cancers. Men are twice as likely to be diagnosed as women. The average age of diagnosis is 64, but about 20% of cases occur in people younger than 55 years old.

In the last 20 years, the prevalence of oral cancer has steadily increased because of the link with the human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Most HPV infections do not cause cancer, however, a few strains are directly linked to cancer of the oropharynx, especially those in the tonsil and base of the tongue. Because of this, oral cancers are becoming more common in younger adults who have no history of tobacco use.

Venk noted that you should let your dentist know if you experience any “swelling or sores that won’t heal, unexplained bleeding or numbness and color changes” anywhere in your mouth. Symptoms of oral cancer may include “difficult or painful swallowing, changes in speech, weight loss or mouth sores that won’t heal.” If something appears suspicious, either your dentist or an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMFS) can perform a biopsy.

Much like other cancers, there are multiple treatment options and most physicians make decisions on a case-by-case basis. Your dentist will point you in the right direction to fi nd the right provider, which may be an OMFS, a radiation oncologist or a medical oncologist. Surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and immunotherapy are all viable treatment options and a combination of these may be used.

But not every bump in your mouth means cancer: Venk said that “canker sores, tonsil stones, benign protrusions of extra bone, localized gum infections or vascular malformations” can all mimic cancer. So, if you notice something new when you are brushing your teeth, go to the dentist to get it evaluated.

Dental Detective Work

You may not have guessed this, but your dentist can probably tell whether you have trouble sleeping. Dr. Venk explained, “If a patient has a retroclined lower jaw or if we can’t see anything beyond the hard palate when they stick out their tongue during the oral cancer screening, I’ll ask screening questions for Obstructive Sleep Apnea. These patients are physically set up for their airway to close o during sleep, putting them at greater risk of OSA.” Just another reason to keep that routine cleaning appointment!

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HOME

Artfully Designed Thomson + Thomson Designs let the Fishers' art collection lead the way p. 26

Work of Art

Carefully considered creativity fills a Heritage Hills home

BY EVIE KLOPP HOLZER

BY KENNON BRYCE

WHEN THE OKLAHOMA CITY

Ballet invited Philadelphia Ballet’s costume designer to assist with Giselle, Jon and Amy Fisher made the visitor feel right at home — quite literally. The Fishers frequently host guest artists in their carriage house apartment, covering lodging needs and allowing art-centered organizations like the Oklahoma City Ballet to stretch their resources further.

“It’s been fun because of the people we get to meet while hosting,” said Amy Fisher, adding that a visitor from France once stayed several months.

The guest stays are just one way the Fishers embrace creativity within their Heritage Hills home. Art-inspired interiors by Thomson + Thomson Designs fill the rooms, as

“It was an awesome challenge to really try to pull together that tradition-mixed-withmodern feel, that bright art mixed with those neutral tones. It's like an intentional mixture and an eclectic vibe throughout.”

PHOTOS

This Piper Bridwell abstract is one of many paintings displayed from the home's art rail, original to the 1916 design.

do pieces from their own extensive art collection. Picture rails (an original architectural detail to the 1916 home) drip with paintings, while additional works are strategically showcased on shelves and lit easels.

“They have great taste in art, which made it a lot of fun,” said Cody Thomson Gallegly, who collaborated with her brother Ashford Thomson on the project. She describes the Fishers’ art as “a little bit louder,” which prompted them to incorporate bold fabrics and furniture for balance.

“We really just wanted to create a space that would allow for the artwork to blend,” she said.

The historic home features craftsman-style interiors with warm woods and intricate carpentry. Art Deco design elements help mix the home’s historic essence with the Fishers’ modern artwork.

“It was an awesome challenge to really try to pull together that tradition-mixed-with-modern feel, that bright art mixed with those neutral tones. It’s like an intentional mixture and an eclectic vibe throughout,” Gallegly said.

The art-driven design project was enjoyable for all involved; Jon Fisher has an affinity for collecting and Amy Fisher for color and fabrics.

The curvy shape of the console contrasts playfully with the home's historic staircase.

The design was driven by the warmth of the home's historic architectural details.

The eclectic blend of new and old is enhanced by the Scheherazade two-tier, silk fixture by Fortuny.

“If they [clients] have an eye for art, then they have an appreciation for design; the two go handin-hand,” Gallegly said. “It’s so exciting when you work with clients that have that eye and appreciation, because it’s more than just them saying, ‘Do what you want and we’ll just live in it.’ They wanted to be involved because this is their home, and they’re the ones who look at the walls every day.”

The Fisher home’s ceilings and floors are worth a look, too. One favorite piece is the Fortuny fixture grandly gracing the entry. Jon Fisher said he also loves the colorful stairway runner, sourced through Designer Rugs and custom made by Edward Fields from the centuries-old company House of Tai Ping.

“One of the things that I’ve liked [about] working with Thomson and Thomson is that a piece of furniture or decor can be a piece of art,” he said.

Design decisions were made with form and function in mind, pulling in performance fabrics and providing multiple seating areas throughout the home to make everyday living — and hosting—easy.

“I wanted our home to look elegant, to be amazing, but also it has to be durable and functional,” Amy Fisher said. “I always want our house to be the place where people can come. Whether it’s a kid or an adult or a family, I want people to feel comfortable and at home and cared for.”

Antiques were thoughtfully sourced to complement the home's original and historic woodwork.

This sitting area showcases Schumacher textiles, Zoffany drapery and a Kravet custom accent chair upholstered in durable, high-performing fabric from Holly Hunt.

By Evie Klopp Holzer & Lavinia Creswa

ART PRESENTS INDIVIDUAL perspectives, as everyone experiences the world subjectively. That applies to both the observer and the creator; we spoke with four local artists and discussed four different approaches to art:

Tammy Brummell’s surrealist collages come from her supreme imagination. While she has her own interpretations of her imagery, she wants viewers to discover their own connections to her other-worldly works.

dg smalling opens up about his passion for art-as-business. His career has evolved to an influential place within the Native American community, and he devotes his time and energy to much more than his line drawings.

With an expert eye for filling space — and a knack for art, architecture and engineering — Klint Schor discusses his unconventional inspiration in bringing his large-scale sculptures to life. His work beautifies several public areas throughout OKC that might otherwise be overlooked.

One visit to Beth Hammack’s art studio reveals how her brilliance shines beyond her well-known, largescale abstracts. She adores all art — and practices her hand in it, too. These days, her paintings have taken a more realistic turn.

In these pages, we share our appreciation for these artists’ diverse insights and works. Considering the range of genres, media, applications and inspirations, it seems obvious: No two creative minds view art quite the same way.

You know, I have my own things I'm thinking about, but I don't really try to explain things a lot. I like other people to [discover] how they feel about it or how it moves them."

By Evie Klopp Holzer

DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE;

that’s where Tammy Brummell’s surrealistic works can take us. Her digital collages travel into another world, a new place to pause, ponder and wonder — where ancient and modern imagery collides, where curiosity abounds.

“I want to leave it open for the viewer to interpret; whatever story they want to come up with,” Brummell said. “You know, I have my own things I’m thinking about, but I don’t really try to explain things a lot. I like other people to [discover] how they feel about it or how it moves them.”

A piece titled “A Collected Crowd in the Meantime” depicts a tall staircase with a shadowed door at the top and a gaping hole at the bottom. Several figures appear throughout. Though all is open for individual storytelling, here is what Brummell sees: One figure is the all-powerful creator. Another figure is the all-knowing fortune teller. And a third figure, poised midway on the stairs, is perhaps weighing her options.

“Kind of like you can go either way,” Brummell mused.

As a child, Brummell remembers crafting cardboard dollhouses and fashioning everything from the doll furniture to the tiny artwork on the walls. Creating art has always been part of her life. However, it was her brother Kyle King who really inspired her to push her artistic limits, as he was constantly creating himself. Though he has since passed away, she admires how his art was always unconventional. He painted things like a bundle of twigs and twine, or a rug on the floor complete with detailed tassels.

Brummell studied photography and commercial art, and ongoing graphic design projects keep her busy in addition to her artwork, which she says has evolved over time. She describes her early works as more “analog”: abstract paintings, multi-media works and cut-andpaste collages. She first toyed with digital collage in a social commentary series called “Linchpin,” inspired by early 20th century Dadaism. In these works, she mixed digital collages with paint and paper.

Today, her work is primarily digital. Brummell snips and collects anything that catches her eye, with a particular affinity for vintage photos, geometric shapes, celestial themes and natural elements such as flowers, rocks, water and planets. She then scans her collections into her computer, where she enjoys adding, deleting and arranging objects against various landscapes.

She hopes her work brings viewers “a little happiness, a little imagination,” echoing her own feelings as she mixes and matches her carefully curated images. Her artwork presents an opening into new worlds, endless rabbit holes to explore. There’s just one question: Will you jump?

By Lavinia Creswa

MAYOR DAVID HOLT REGULARLY posts pictures on social media from his office, standing in front of a striking painting of a buffalo. “Grand Buffalo,” by Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma Master Artist dg smalling, was the first Native American art to be displayed at the OKC Mayor’s office, and features smalling’s signature style: an image created by a single, continuous line.

Though smalling has made a name for himself in the art world because of this one-line drawing technique, over the last five years he has begun to focus more on creating, designing and making a place in the Native American community. His passion lies in cultural collaboration through furniture, tiles, art and even software.

Though tribal casinos make over an estimated $40 billion a year, smalling is the only fine artist to work directly in the industry. “I design for Gary Platt Manufacturing, who created casino furniture as we know it,” smalling said. From his signature style of art on the back of the chair to noticing how people will sit at a casino, every element is considered when designing these pieces.

It’s an industry of which he speaks highly: “Indian gaming makes up over half of the U.S. market, and Oklahoma is the fourth largest gaming market in the world. It is the only industry in Oklahoma that has full wage parity. It is also the only industry in Oklahoma that is globally dominant, and 65% of management is women,” he noted. “I focus on this industry — rather than markets and galleries — because it’s the epicenter of Indian Country and it is how we’ve been able to rebuild.”

In addition to furniture, smalling has also partnered with Incredible Technologies to create the first Native American designed casino game, called “Ultra Rush Gold Featuring dg smalling.”

“Some of the designs in the game are contemporary, but some are 5,000 years old. I sat down with a historical preservation team to make sure there is no misappropriation and no misuse of design. The lexicon has been used for thousands of years and it still speaks. Using these designs in my game made them alive again.”

smalling is involved in so many ventures, it would be difficult to highlight them all. From designing the art on the Native Narrative Series for Emser Tiles to gold, silver and bronze coins with precious metals dealer APMEX to designing the artwork and logo for the Indigenous and Military workgroups at Amazon, smalling is constantly working. He said that it is a privilege to create art on behalf of the Native community in Oklahoma, the country and globally. “This will always be my primary focus, because there is still so much to do. There is always something new to create.”

dg smalling recently announced that he is officially collaborating with the iconic brand Louis Vuitton. He will be designing a pocket watch, only the eighth ever to be made by the company since its founding in 1854.

Part of the message of the piece is that they each need each other to stand, which happens at the moment of the kiss. It’s an intimate moment that proves we need each other for support."

By Lavinia Creswa

KLINT SCHOR HAS BECOME a master in filling space, which is evident throughout Oklahoma City.

In 2009, an Oklahoma City mandate was adopted that dedicates 1% of the cost of any municipal project to fund public art. Schor has been selected twice as the recipient of these funds, adding beauty to areas of the city that were previously overlooked. At the Wendel Whisenhunt Sports Complex in South Oklahoma City, the 13-feettall, six-feet-across aluminum and steel “Brazuca Ball” stands proudly among the soccer fields. With “Glacial Erratics,” Schor created five unique geodesic steel structures, resembling boulders, along the West River Trail.

Downtown OKC has a similar mission of activating urban space, which has resulted in many of the vibrant murals around town. But in 2017, it requested proposals for a sculptural project, originally planned to be displayed somewhere in downtown Oklahoma City. Schor was overjoyed to be the artist selected for his large steel sculpture, “The Kiss,” and suggested Kerr Park as a location. Though this work wasn’t officially installed until October of 2023 on the neighboring lawn of The Commons, Schor admits that “The Kiss” — made up of two 12-foot-tall interlocking pieces of steel — may be his favorite piece to date.

“Part of the message of the piece is that they each need each other to stand, which happens at the moment of the kiss,” Schor said. “It’s an intimate moment that proves we need each other for support.”

Not all of Schor’s sculptural pieces are intended just to be viewed and fill vacant space. In fact, most of his work also serves a functional purpose. “I merge art and architecture. I typically work from a commission standpoint and design custom tables, gates and fences as well as just pure artwork. I love when people come to me with a specific problem and we figure out the solution together.”

This artistic combination of architectural engineering, functionality and art can be seen outside of The Icehouse Project in Edmond, where Schor has created a neon green grasshopper that doubles as a climbable jungle gym.

When asked how he designed “Grasshopper,” Schor admitted his inspiration is actually the budget. “It sounds weird that it’s the inspiration, but a lot of my creativity is based on reverse engineering a budget,” he explained. “One of the reasons I love commissions is because of how creative I get to be. It’s like when you open your fridge and you have milk, rice and a jalapeño and you think, ‘How can I make a meal out of this?’ When you have the dollar amount, you work backwards to make something substantial and special.”

Be sure to catch Schor in the Sculpture Garden at the 58th annual Festival of the Arts, April 25-28. He will have his signature outdoor pieces — “The Knots” — for sale.

By Evie Klopp Holzer

MUCH LIKE HER ARTWORK, Beth Hammack’s studio reflects an appreciation of all genres. Baskets overflow with paints in every color and brushes in every size, and a box of pastels lies open on the floor. Charcoal, pens and paper remain within reach. Favorite art books — depicting works from classical masters to contemporary visionaries — line the walls. A black-and-white photo of a cowboy is pinned on the wall, next to an abstract in progress, while other clippings are stacked upright in nearby boxes, awaiting their turn to inspire.

Though Hammack is particularly known for her abstract paintings, she doesn’t limit her creative output. Sketching, she said, is her first love. In fact, most of her abstract works are born by drawing. Sometimes the images are clearly visible; other times they appear as blurred lines or become buried under layers of paint, hidden altogether.

“There’s something about drawing it, covering it up, drawing again, covering it up and adding color along the way. It’s just joyful,” Hammack said. “Yeah, but it’s frustrating too, because you have pieces you are still trying to tweak — but a good abstract artist knows, ‘Quit. I got it.’”

Large abstract canvases are contrasted by her frequent forays into realism, still-life paintings and Native American portraits. Each stands ready for Hammack’s review and reflection, when she makes that all-important call: Is it finished yet?

“You stare at it every morning when you’re fresh-eyed,” Hammack described her process. “You may quit on it that night and be down and out, but then you go, ‘Oh, I get to wake up in the morning and work on that some more,’ and if you have that energy, you do it. There’s one day you get up and go, ‘I like it just the way it is.’ And if you’re staring at it for two or three days, and you’re not overwhelmed to fix it, you’re done — and you’re best to pass it on to the world.”

With a 17-year relationship with Joy Reed Belt and the JRB Art gallery, Hammack has been able to launch many of her artistic wonders into the world. Recently, she’s been producing and selling Native American portraits alongside her abstract works. To Hammack, realism and abstract art fit together quite naturally.

“If you cannot produce realism, you really shouldn’t journey into the abstract. I think you have to kind of prove a level of accomplishment, and then you can take off and go from there … To me it’s a development and a journey,” said Hammack, adding that abstract work allows a level of artistic freedom not found in realism, since you can tell immediately when a person’s face isn’t painted proportionally. “What I enjoy about abstract [art] is that there are no rules.”

One glance around Hammack’s studio, and the “no rules” notion fits: All of the supplies, all of the genres. In this creative space, anything goes.

There’s something about drawing it, covering it up, drawing again, covering it up and adding color along the way. It’s just joyful."

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. | BY KAYLIN HILL

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 16 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.

Exhibit C Gallery, 1 E. Sheridan Ave., OKC

This Chickasaw-owned space in Bricktown 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 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 American Indian 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 cutting-edge 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.

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 in science, mathematics, and safety 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 Dr., 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.

Open Sky Editions, 1303 N. Robinson Ave. Suite 25, OKC

Open Sky Editions is a premier art gallery specializing in contemporary and modern art, offering a curated selection of posters, prints, ephemera and publications.

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 Kirkpatrick 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 has been committed to delivering exceptional experiences since its establishment opened in 1990.

Wildfi re Gallery, 2927 Paseo, OKC

Located in the Paseo Arts District, Wildfi re 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.

Costume worn by Betty Hutton as Pearl White in the Paramount Pictures production of 'The Perils of Pauline', 1947. Designed by Edith Head. Collection of Motion Picture Costume Design: Larry McQueen Organized by the Oklahoma City Museum of Art

Be moved by the Field of Empty Chairs, strengthened by the Survivor Tree and educated by the interactive exhibits, videos and artifacts. The museum o ers a contrast between the brutality of the attack and the tenderness of the response. Come to remember as we near the 30th anniversary of the Oklahoma City bombing.

Video still, Beila , 2017. © Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy. Photo courtesy of SOC Films.

Plaza’s Quasi-Speakeasy

A Taste of Tokyo

OKC welcomes Japanese sushi pub Awaji

BY MATT KIROUAC PHOTOS BY RACHEL MAUCIERI

JAPAN MAY BE 6,300 MILES — AND A WHOLE OCEAN — away from Oklahoma City, but thanks to a new izakaya and sushi bar northwest of Lake Hefner, it’s never felt closer. Awaji Izakaya, which opened last year in the Walnut Village shopping center at 12305 N. Rockwell Ave., doesn’t look like much from its nondescript facade, but upon entry it’s a transportive experience unlike anything else in the city. The cozy, wood-paneled space is lined with paper lanterns, sake bottles and Nintendo characters, weaving guests through a snug maze of nooks, crannies and multiple bars, including an intimate sushi counter in the back where chef Richard Ly puts on veritable dinner theater — and proves his mettle as the mightiest sushi chef in Oklahoma.

Ly is a Vietnamese chef who grew up in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, and clocked time in local Japanese restaurants before moving to OKC in 2013. He subsequently assumed roles at PF Chang’s corporate and, most recently and impressively, Jimmy B’s Culinary + Krafted. It was here where Ly got to really flex his sushi skills, putting out some of the best and brightest maki (rolls) in the metro. His dream, though, was to open a place of his very own.

“I decided to go on my own and open a really good sushi place, like in Los Angeles or Dallas,” said Ly, citing iconic institutions like Nobu and Uchi as inspiration. “It’s time to bring that to Oklahoma City.”

Awaji’s initial transportive sensation is intentional for Ly, who infuses authenticity into every facet of the experience, from the decor to the nigiri.

“I decided to go on my own and open a really good sushi place, like in Los Angeles or Dallas. It’s time to bring that to Oklahoma City.”

“When you walk in, you take yourself away from Oklahoma,” he said. “The atmosphere is a Japanese gastropub, and my passion is to bring good food, Japanese culture and fresh, high-quality fish.”

For many guests, Awaji will be equally enlightening, showing what realdeal sushi and Japanese gastropub fare can be. The vast menu contains plates small and large, comprising everything from sushi rolls and yakitori skewers to dumplings and curries — all of which are diligently prepared, delicately sliced and presented with the precision of an artist who has clearly spent years honing his craft. Sourcing the finest fish and seafood from all over the world, from bluefin tuna to Norwegian mackerel, Ly spares no expense when it comes to ingredients, a sentiment echoed in the craftsmanship. Scratch-made pork dumplings come drizzled in ponzu; miso soup gets flecked with crispy morsels of fried tofu; and pressed sushi rolls, an Osaka-style tradition, come out looking like layered jewels with ruby-red tuna, avocado and spicy mayo.

Of the hotter plates, Japanese grilled skewers are speared with the likes of plump chicken breast, smoky beef tenderloin and shiitake mushrooms, while katsu curry — a fragrant, panko-breaded pork cutlet wafting Japanese spices — arrives atop a stew of edamame, onions and carrots. Don’t miss Ly’s rendition of a Volcano Roll, an explosive medley of crawfish or shrimp, served warm amid a gumbo-like sauce of spicy miso mayo and sesame, piled over a California roll.

In addition to the sizable menu, keep your eyes peeled for rotating specials and off-menu highlights, which Ly features when available, like slivers of raw, pearl-colored raw scallop nigiri topped with caviar, or buttery burrata — atypical of sushi restaurants — that defies expectations when perfectly paired with smoked trout, trout roe and nori chips.

For Ly, a chef who is steadily establishing a pedigree as the state’s foremost sushi star, Awaji Izakaya is an opportunity to build off Oklahoma City’s momentum as a growing, culture-rich metropolis. “If I close my eyes, I imagine I’m in Dallas,” he said. “Oklahoma City is ready for something like this.”

LEFT: Yellowtail sashimi with blood orange

MIDDLE: Volcano Roll

BOTTOM: Pork gyoza dumplings

The Evolution of Oklahoma’s Onion Burgers

Classic flavor that transcends the Sooner State

BY MATT KIROUAC

PHOTO BY RACHEL MAUCIERI

WHAT STARTED AS A DEPRESsion-era invention derived from necessity has evolved into a regional calling card, a source of pride and a token Oklahoman food so appealing that it’s starting to sweep the nation. The Oklahoma-style fried onion burger is a thing of local lore — a humble creation, invented in the 1920s in El Reno, where frills-free burger joints began smashing a heap of slivered onions into beef patties to stretch their product during costly times. But since its unassuming origins, initially at the bygone Hamburger Inn and subsequently at enduring El Reno stalwarts like Robert’s and Sid’s, a burger born from scarcity has boomed into a local menu staple and, increasingly, a regional specialty on a national scale.

In El Reno, Robert’s Grill has been slinging smashed onion burgers since 1926, followed by Johnnie’s in the ’40s and Sid’s in the ’80s. All mere blocks apart, the old-timey institutions comprise a kind of cottage industry in the western exurb, culminating with the annual Fried Onion Burger Day Festival — and the world’s largest fried onion hamburger — every spring. Recipes are still as simple as they’ve always been: nothing more than thin beef patties pressed on a searing griddle with a mound of shredded onions, and served on fluffy buns with optional add-ons like pickles, mustard and cheese. It’s the caramelization and slight crunch of the onions, though, that make them so distinct.

In the wake of these legends, neoteric takes have popped up consistently throughout the metro, like the Tucker’s Onion Burgers minichain, which elevates the form by using beef from Creekstone Farms in Kansas. Garage Burgers & Beer is another local chain serving onion burgers, topped with American cheese and mustard, and Burger Punk gets playful with its Velveeta Underground, which tops fried onion burgers with “Liquid Gold” Velveeta.

The most significant recent example, good enough to rank among our best new restaurants

in Oklahoma City for 2023, is Sun Cattle Co. The closest thing to an El Reno homage that we’ve seen, this Film Row spot features fried onion burgers front-and-center, both in classic form and with toppings like hash browns and chili. It comes at a time when onion burgers are finally branching beyond Oklahoma, as iterations start to pop up on menus well beyond state borders.

At Gotham Burger Social Club in New York City, owner Mike Puma leaned on nostalgia by turning a successful burger pop-up into a brick and mortar joint specializing in the dish, though adding fewer onions than traditional Oklahoma onion burgers to emphasize the beef. “When I had my first Oklahoma fried onion burger as an adult, I felt all those childhood memories come back,” he said. “I’m so glad that New York has embraced the Gotham Burger Social Club and my Gotham Smash. Nothing tastes better than memories.”

A national chain with locations spanning from California to Florida, Rock & Brews has also hopped on the Oklahoma onion burger band-

wagon. The Oklahoma Smash burger features caramelized onions, cheese and a thin beef patty griddled until crispy. Said Ben Magana, vice president of culinary, “We strive to nail down that classic, authentic flavor which makes this burger taste like a nostalgic trip to Oklahoma.”

Lucky’s Last Chance, in Philadelphia, introduced an Oklahoma onion burger as a special that proved so popular that it was added to the permanent menu. Meanwhile, Lil’ Eagle Burger is a Bay Area pop-up from Zack Fernandes, who likes onion burgers for their “richness and depth of flavor” that pairs nicely with beef. “People have been putting onions on burgers since time immemorial, but the Okie is such a beautiful thing because the onions are not a topping, they become one with the patty. Their simplicity is a rebuke of how needlessly complicated we’ve made burgers in this country.”

Born from scarcity, but evolved into a symbol of pride, it’s that simplicity that’s proved universal.

Fried onion burger at Sun Cattle Co.

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Raise a Few Glasses

Cocktail creativity in the Plaza District

BY MATT KIROUAC | PHOTO BY RACHEL MAUCIERI

OKLAHOMA CITY’S COCKTAIL SCENE HAS UNDERgone a serious renaissance of late. It wasn’t all that long ago that beer couldn’t be sold with alcohol content exceeding 3.2%, and at Guthrie’s WanderFolk Spirits, the state’s first distillery, cocktails are still DIY in order to adhere to dusty liquor laws. But in spite of delays and hurdles, innovation and creativity still burst through. In recent years, we’ve seen the debut of Lunar Lounge, The Library of Distilled Spirits, Flamingo TIKI, Pool Bar and RadBar, all of which have helped propel the city’s bar scene forward. The latest — and most illustrious — example is Good For A Few, a quasi-speakeasy adjoining a beloved burger joint at 1705 NW 16th St. in the Plaza District.

The owners of New State Burgers & Spirits always felt that the “spirits” portion of their brand was overlooked, and when the space next door became available, it presented an opportunity to expand that spotlight, while filling an untapped niche in the market. Nestled discreetly behind a curtain and a wall of books, Good For A Few is the kind of dark, alluring parlor you’d expect to stumble across in New York City or Chicago; the kind of place where the moody, artsy environs align with the mastery of the cocktails and the whimsy of the menu.

Describing travel as a key inspiration point for the bar — including custom jackets for bar staff and a pair of vintage Air Jordans that the owners saw in New York dangling behind the bar — co-owner Tyler Maune says the ulti-

mate goal was to create a space “where grown-ups can go and have a drink,” describing the bar as quiet, intimate and conversational. “It’s a void in the market that we wanted to bring.”

The menu, too, is one you’ll want to cozy up to, filled with both classic drinks and contemporary novelties, along with playful elements like mini-Champagne glasses and boozy ice cream. The curated drink list highlights excellent renditions of staples like French 75s and daiquiris, but the inspired originals make Good For A Few really shine. The Favorite Son blends gin, cassis and Aperol for a Negroni riff with a dark berry undertone, and Grow a Pear is a best-seller with mezcal, tequila, fresh pear juice and hibiscus. Exhibiting even more dexterity, Let’s Make It Clear is a clarified piña colada with all the rich, tropical taste in a completely translucent elixir, and Charlie Horse borrows inspiration from carajillos, Spanish coffee cocktails that rival even the finest espresso martini, with Licor 43, espresso, local coffee, banana liqueur and a silken tres leches cold foam poured on top.

The bar offers a few snacks, like sliders and donut holes, but you’ll want to save your sweet tooth for last call at 11:30 p.m. That’s the only time Good For A Few offers its piccino, a $5 digestif inspired by affogato-style espresso-soaked ice cream. Made with coffee brandy and vanilla ice cream, the pint-sized tipple arrives in a shot glass for a sweet finale.

Grow A Pear and Favorite Son at Good For A Few

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A Rare Discovery

Stillwater student names a new dinosaur species. p. 62

Pioneering Spirit

A Ponca City monument to confidence

BY LINDA MILLER

HER INTRODUCTION ATTRACTED MORE than 40,000 people, all eager to see the larger-than-life bronze statue: a pioneer woman, her face one of determination and courage, leading her young son by the hand.

The much-anticipated Pioneer Woman statue was dedicated in Ponca City on April 22, 1930, on the 41st anniversary of the fi rst land run in Oklahoma. Declared a state holiday, the day also included a nationwide radio address by U.S. President Herbert Hoover from the White House. Secretary of War Patrick Hurley, a native Oklahoman, had planned to attend the ceremony but was ill so he spoke from his home.

“There are few men of the West of my generation who did not know the pioneer woman in his own mother, and who does not rejoice to know that her part in building that great civilization is to have such beautiful recognition,” the president said.

E.W. Marland, Oklahoma oil magnate, philanthropist and future state representative and governor, had often expressed similar sentiments and wanted to honor his own pioneering mother, grandmother and other women who helped settle the land.

In 1926, Marland launched a national competition to create a statue to express what he called “the spirit of the pioneer woman — a tribute to all women of the sunbonnet everywhere.”

Twelve artists were chosen to submit a three-foot bronze model to be taken across the country for public viewing and voting. Each artist was paid $10,000 for their work. More than 750,000 people viewed the models.

Winning sculptor Bryant Baker’s model, named “Confident,” connected with voters who felt her strength and grit. Today’s visitors can see it too. Her posture is strong and straight. Her eyes look forward to the southwestern horizon as she carries a Bible and protectively grasps her young son’s hand, determined to meet any challenges.

The Pioneer Woman statue, at an initial cost of $300,000, rests on 14.5 acres of land staked during the fourth land run in 1893. The statue is 17 feet tall, weighs 12,000 pounds and is posed atop a limestone base.

Baker, a world-renowned sculptor, created more than 100 statues and busts during his career but none more well-known than the Pioneer Woman statue. The vision was all his, too, since no one posed for the Ponca City icon.

“I think it grew out of my reading the many stories of James Fennimore Cooper when I was a boy, but the woman was to me the courageous character marching out, carrying all her worldly belongings, her Bible and her son, the man of tomorrow, to a new life … She is the abstract, beautiful, ideal woman of the spirit of great faith and hope,” he wrote in a letter to Gareth Muchmore, former Associated Press correspondent and co-publisher of the Ponca City News.

Though the statue took center stage during the unveiling, Oklahoma’s own Will Rogers added a playful twist as he closed out the ceremony. “That’s a wonderful figure of the boy. That’s the cleanest face I ever saw on an Oklahoma boy,” he said. “That woman’s got on a corset, you know, and we haven’t seen one on in years, but she’s got one on.”

Marland was said to be frustrated with Rogers’ humor, thinking he was making fun of the statue. The crowd may have laughed at Rogers, but then, as now, there’s only admiration for the statue and who it represents and honors.

The Pioneer Woman statue in Ponca City

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In Remembrance of Toby Keith

Oklahomans bid farewell to a legend

BY KAYLIN HILL

PUTTING MOORE, OKLAHOMA, ON THE MAP, singer-songwriter legend Toby Keith is a name practically everyone in the 405 knows. But the legendary singer-songwriter who passed away on Feb. 5 will be remembered in his home state not merely for the music that touched so many lives. It was also his dedication to philanthropy that made such an impression within our community.

Toby Keith Covel was born in Clinton, Oklahoma, in 1961 to Carolyn and Hubert Covel. The Covel family relocated to Moore during Toby’s formative years, where he attended Highland West Junior High and then graduated from Moore High School in the Class of ’79. Throughout his teens, he dominated the football field as a 6’4” defensive end. His athleticism eventually took him to play semi-professional football for a brief stint with the Oklahoma City Drillers after high school, before he took on a career in the oilfield.

With a lifelong affi nity for music, Keith was only 20 years old when he formed the “Easy Money Band” with some friends and began performing at local venues and honky tonks. But the “easy money” on the side for show gigs couldn’t keep him afloat when the oil industry’s downturn in 1982 left him unemployed. The change, however, did afford him the chance to focus on his passion for country music full-time.

Keith jumped in with both feet and took off to Nashville — where he began humbly, playing on street corners and distributing his recorded demos. One day a representative from Mercury Records witnessed his performance at a Nashville bar and agreed to sign the singer-songwriter, and his career in music was set into motion.

In 1993, he dropped his fi rst single, “Should’ve Been a Cowboy,” which went on to become one of the most listened-to country songs of the ’90s, along with five other Top 5 hits from his self-titled debut album. This sparked his journey on tour with Shania Twain, exposing him to an even wider audience, and he became known for his songwriting and performance.

Some other favorite hit songs we remember include “How Do You Like Me Now?” in 1999, “I Wanna Talk About Me” in 2001, “Red Solo Cup” in 2011 and so many more. But a standout also had to be “I Love This Bar” in 2003 — which inspired the restaurants Toby Keith’s I Love This Bar & Grill, current locations of which are operated by renowned group Hal Smith Restaurants and feature menu items inspired by some of Keith’s favorite meals.

In addition to his musical endeavors, Keith was celebrated for his philanthropy and unwavering support for American communities and troops overseas. In 2002, he joined forces with the USO to perform 18 shows for deployed soldiers. Later, he also went on to establish the Toby Keith Foundation in 2006 and OK Kids Corral in 2015, both offering vital support to pediatric cancer patients and their families.

The concerts, the singalongs, the laughter and the tears — Keith’s music brought so many emotions to the surface of our hearts. These memories, along with his charitable efforts, can be a source of pride for his fans and our community for many years to come.

Dino Discovery

Oklahoma State University student unearths and names ancient species

BY JAKE DURHAM

KYLE ATKINS-WELTMAN, A student at Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences, has achieved a rare accomplishment, as he joins the select group of individuals who have had the honor of naming a new dinosaur.

“Some have said that this was a school project,” Atkins-Weltman said. “However, this was for my master’s thesis. It was all very serendipitous, but it resulted in a great piece of work.”

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in anatomy and vertebrate paleontology at Oklahoma State University, he collaborated in 2014 on a study involving a collection of foot and leg bone fossils. They were initially believed to belong to a juvenile Anzu wyliei, dubbed the “chicken from hell,” until histology examinations revealed that the specimens were not juvenile Anzu, but a distinct species within the caenagnathid dinosaur family.

Atkins-Weltman named the discovery Eoneophron infernalis, which translates to “Pharaoh’s dawn chicken from hell,” and pays homage to his cherished pet Pharaoh, a Nile monitor lizard. Eoneophron, estimated to weigh between 150 to 160 pounds and measure about 3 feet tall at the hip, possessed bird-like characteristics, sporting a toothless beak, a relatively abbreviated tail and unmistakable feathered features. Atkins-Weltman’s work was published in 2021 in the peer-reviewed journal PLOS ONE.

“[The team] realized this thing was a new species,” Atkins-Weltman said. “But the international code of zoological nomenclature prohibits the naming of a new species in a publication like a master’s thesis. So, we took information out of

a chapter of the master’s thesis and made it into a professional publication, added more detail and put a name to this thing.”

While Atkins-Weltman had performed numerous digs in the area known as “Hell Creek,” the bones acquired for the discovery were acquired commercially from an area in Mead Country, South Dakota.

“We didn’t realize it was a new species until Dr. Ballard did the histology,” Atkins-Weltman said.

Dr. Holly Woodward Ballard’s expertise in paleohistology proved invaluable. Through meticulous paleohistological analysis, the team conclusively identified the fossils as belonging to a mature specimen of a previously unidentified caenagnathid dinosaur.

Atkins-Weltman’s aspirations for his doctoral work are actually different from his master’s work that led to this new discovery. “What I wanted to do for my doctorate was too ambitious for my master’s,” Atkins-Weltman said. “I’m really interested in biomechanics and paleoecology, specifically at the end of the Cretaceous. [This new discovery] was something that needed to be done, and I was there to do it. So I did it, and I’m very glad that I did, but I don’t think much of that will be like most of my work in the future.”

Surprisingly, discoveries of new species are not few and far between. “We’re discovering new dinosaurs all the time,” Atkins-Weltman said. “There’s usually a new species named every couple of weeks. But with formations like Hill Creek, which has been excavated since the days of Barton Brown in the late 19th century, the number of new species you see starts to drop off

“New stuff is being discovered all the time. We’re always learning more — not just about dinosaurs, but also prehistoric life and evolution.” rapidly

because people have been exploring there for over 100 years.”

As Atkins-Weltman embarks on his doctoral studies and aspirations in biomechanics and paleoecology, his contribution to the field serves as a testament to the enduring pursuit of knowledge and the possibilities that lie ahead in scientific exploration. With his commitment to further exploration and discovery, he exemplifies the spirit of inquiry that drives the scientific community forward, promising continued advancements and revelations in paleontology and beyond.

“New stuff is being discovered all the time,” Atkins-Weltman said. “We’re always learning more — not just about dinosaurs, but also prehistoric life and evolution. My biggest hope is that this will inspire potential and future researchers.”

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