Downtown Mural Project

The Design Committee of Okmulgee Main Street holds as one of its cardinal objectives the revitalization and embellishment of our downtown district. We are staunch advocates for the idea that murals represent a form of art that is both profound and delightful for our residents and visitors. Beyond mere aesthetic appeal, murals serve as cultural touchpoints that can markedly elevate the profile of a community. The presence and quality of such artworks can act as powerful magnets for tourists and aficionados of art.

Murals are not just visual spectacles; they are storytellers. They encapsulate the essence of a community, weaving together the rich tapestry of its history, its people, and the artistic spirit of its creators. It's this synthesis that makes each mural unique and resonant. The Okmulgee Main Street Mural Project is more than just an endeavor to beautify our surroundings. It's an ambitious step toward embedding our cultural legacy on our walls and streets. Such initiatives are not merely decorative; they are transformational, acting as catalysts that stimulate economic vibrancy and development, enriching our community in manifold ways.

This mural is located on the side of the former Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) building in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. The mural is a reminder of the importance of technology in our lives. The man on the horse represents the pioneers who helped to settle the American West, and the postage stamp represents the innovation that made it possible to communicate across long distances. The mural also celebrates the history and culture of Okmulgee, which was once a major center for the postal service.

The mural was restored in 2013 by artist John C. Welch. It is a popular tourist destination, and it is a reminder of the important role that OSUIT has played in the history of Okmulgee and the United States.

The mural is a beautiful and iconic work of art. It is a reminder of the importance of technology, the history of Okmulgee, and the pioneering spirit of the American people.

"The Essence of Okmulgee" and was painted by Osage-Creek artist Yatika Starr Fields in 2015. The mural depicts a group of people who are standing next to each other on a wall. The people in the mural represent different aspects of Okmulgee's history and culture, including the Muscogee Nation, the city's role in the Trail of Tears, and its agricultural heritage.

The mural is divided into three sections. The top section depicts the ceremonial fire, which is a sacred symbol of the Muscogee Nation. The middle section shows a group of people playing stickball, a traditional Muscogee game. The bottom section shows a group of people harvesting crops, representing Okmulgee's agricultural heritage.

The mural is a powerful reminder of Okmulgee's rich history and culture. It is also a symbol of hope for the future, as it shows the people of Okmulgee coming together from different backgrounds to create a better future for their community.

Here are some additional details about the mural:

The mural is located on the Orpheum Theatre building, which is a historic landmark in downtown Okmulgee.
The mural was commissioned by the Muscogee Nation Cultural Center and Archives Department.
The mural was painted as part of the OrangeFest celebration, which is an annual event in Okmulgee that celebrates the city's history and culture.
The mural is approximately 20 feet tall and 50 feet wide.
The mural is made up of acrylic paint and spray paint.