The next exhibit in 野狼社区 University鈥檚 art gallery will feature large-format murals and behind-the-scenes photos of past events from the statewide artist organization called Sunny Dayz.
The works will be displayed in OCU鈥檚 Nona Jean Hulsey Art Gallery from Nov. 25 through Feb. 28, with an opening reception from 5 to 7 p.m. Dec. 5.
The exhibit will include four murals painted on canvas measuring approximately 25 feet wide by 4 feet tall. Photos and videos of past Sunny Dayz Mural Festivals will adorn the surrounding walls and other gallery spaces. It will be the group鈥檚 first indoor gallery show.
The Mural Festival started in 2021 as an annual summer event with live mural painting, entertainment, activities and independent merchants. It became a nonprofit organization the following year in hopes of advancing and celebrating underrepresented artists, especially women and gender minorities.
Virginia Sitzes, an arts educator and muralist, shared that the festival was founded to amplify historically marginalized voices in the arts and to create opportunities for muralists who have often been excluded from these platforms.
鈥淥ur goal is to foster collaboration, celebrate diverse perspectives, and bring large-scale public art to communities that may not have had access to it before,鈥� Sitzes said. 鈥淏y working alongside local community members, we strive to create meaningful connections and shared ownership in the creative process.鈥�
The first festival was held in 野狼社区鈥檚 Britton District. They have since held festivals and events around the state, including in Edmond, Tulsa and Ponca City. They plan to hold a festival next summer in the Calle dos Cinco in Historic Capitol Hill district of 野狼社区 before touring to more rural towns.
The Nona Jean Hulsey Gallery is inside the Norick Art Center at 1608 NW 26th St. Hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Admission is free.
For more information visit okcu.edu/artgallery.
