“Doc Tate Nevaquaya: In the Realm of the Thirteen Feathers, “ an exhibition featuring original paintings, signed prints and a photographic essay on the life of Doc Tate Nevaquaya, is currently on view through January 31 at the Red Earth Museum in downtown Oklahoma City.
The exhibition, funded in part by the Oklahoma Arts Council, features original paintings and signed/numbered prints from the Red Earth permanent collection. The exhibition is accompanied by family photos and testimonials about the life and career of the late Doc Tate Nevaquaya (Comanche).
Nevaquaya, from Apache, OK, was named a National Living Treasure in 1995 - an award presented by Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating. A noted flute player and artist, Nevaquaya was commissioned by the Oklahoma State Arts Council to compose the song “Flight of the Spirit” in honor of the five Oklahoma Native American Prima Ballerinas featured in the Great Rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol.
Nevaquaya was a self-taught artist, flutist, composer, dancer, lecturer, and Methodist lay minister. He made more than 25 national television appearances and recorded Comanche Flute Music for Folkways Records. He performed during the Night of the First Americans held at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C., and also played at the United Nations Mission and Carnegie Hall in New York City. In 1982 he was commissioned by the Oklahoma Diamond Jubilee to design two coins.
Doc Tate Nevaquaya was named the 1993 Red Earth Honored One for his lifetime of artistic achievements, and was Parade Marshall for the 1993 Red Earth Festival in Oklahoma City. He married Charlotte Jereaux Foraker and had nine children. He lived on his family’s land allotment near Apache until his death from a heart attack in 1996. His sons have carried on his legacy as artists, flute players and dancers.
A reception open the public to view his work is scheduled Wednesday, November 14 in conjunction with the American Indian Chamber of Commerce Oklahoma City Chapter from 5-7 pm at the Red Earth Museum.
The Red Earth Museum & Gallery is open free to the public Monday through Friday and Saturday by appointment at 6 Santa Fe Plaza next to the historic Skirvin Hilton Hotel in Oklahoma City. Visit www.redearth.org or call (405) 427-5228 for additional information. Red Earth, Inc. is a non-profit organization with a mission to promote the rich traditions of American Indian arts and cultures through education, a premier festival, a museum and fine art markets.
