Contributed by Sapulpa Arts & Humanities Foundation.
As the years have passed, the arts and humanities organizations in Sapulpa have grown and become a vital part of Sapulpa’s thriving community. Sapulpa Arts has been there to provide support and encouragement for 35 years.
“Our school and the community have seen the value the arts have added over the past 35 years,” said director Sheri Ishmael-Waldrop. “My board and I look forward to setting the groundwork for the next 35 years.”
By becoming Sapulpa Arts & Humanities Foundation and continuing its 501c(3) non-profit status, the organization will increase its presence in the community, said Waldrop, and to expand current programming. Plans are underway to find a site to create an open space for hosting community arts-related events, display traveling exhibits, and to feature local artists.
The hard work of founding board members Clark Wiens, Julie (Warden) Miner, Lee Frost, Shirley Nero, and Barbara, Guy and Dianne Berry continues today.
Sapulpa Arts began in support of Sapulpa Public Schools by providing additional opportunities and experiences in all art forms: drama, dance, visual arts, and music. The goals were to expose students to greater arts experiences and to bring aesthetic awareness to the community in order to enhance the lives of the community.
Their mission was to promote the Arts and Humanities in the Sapulpa area so that the artistic heritage and creativity of all people may find expression, growth and visibility. This is still the mission today.
Waldrop and the SA&HF board continue the original Arts Explore summer camp for second through seventh graders, an annual community arts exhibit during the Rt. 66 Blowout, hosting of the annual High School Art Show opening reception, as well as highlighting local humanities organizations and their events on the Facebook page.
Sapulpa Public Schools has developed strong visual arts, theater, choir and band programs. Now is the time to continue the expansion of these within the community.
SA&HF is planning and assisting with future events by the Sapulpa Public Library, Sapulpa Parks and Recreation, Sapulpa Artists Guild, Sapulpa Community Theatre and Sapulpa Historical Society.
Through the support of our membership drive, generous corporate donations, the Oklahoma Arts Council and National Endowment for the Arts, SA&HF is able to provide quality programs for artists of all ages and experiences.
In 2022, we will bring the following events to our community:
ARTeries FREE art classes for active senior adults takes place during the Fall, Winter and Spring.
Rt. 66 Art Show on Sept. 10 will highlight more than 150 local artists of all ages and skill levels. We award winner ribbons and cash prizes in five categories for six age groups.
Arts Explore! Art Camp provides a week of exploring the world through the arts (music, dance, theater, art & culture) for area students in second through seventh grade during July.
Plein Air live painting event in the Spring.
Rock Creek Music Festival, Sept. 24, will feature regional bands, food trucks, art, wine and craft beer at Kelly Lane Park. Don’t miss this family-friendly event.
35 Year Celebration, follow us on Facebook for all the fun.
If you would like to help SA&HF, financially or as a volunteer, contact Waldrop at sapulpaarts@gmail.com or visit them on Facebook for dates and times of local events.
