Collage 2001

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The following is an press release from Mark Maxey
(Posted 2-28-01)

Mark Maxey, Oklahoma City artist, is participating in the Collage 2001 sponsored by the State Historical Society and the Oklahoma Centennial Commission. This year's theme is The American Indian and Pioneers of Oklahoma. Their website, http://www.collage2000.com shows previous winners and has information on this years event.

Each year the collage theme changes and will culminate in 2007 with selected collages being displayed at the Smithsonian Institute. The judging of this years collage entries will take place March 31.

Maxey, who is of Yuchi Indian descent chose to honor his tribe by showcasing his great-great grandfather's accomplishments. "S. W. Brown, Sr, was pretty well known in Tulsa and Creek Counties. His work not only helped Oklahoma's growth, but he also helped bridge the cultural gap during a very tremulous time," Maxey said. Chief S. W. Brown was a mercantile owner, but also a district judge, postmaster, and interpreter for many of the oil companies at the time of statehood. "I am using in my collage some original documents that date back over 100 years which show the assistance he gave to help Oklahoma," Maxey stated. Brown was used by many of the oil companies to help secure oil leases on Indian land. He was also very instrumental in the Dawes Commission early decision-making process.

"I was able to do most of my research at the State Historical Society," states Maxey. Brown donated about 38 boxes of personal belongings to the Historical Society, detailing his work and valuable history of early Indian Territory. These boxes have proven to be quite a research tool for not only Oklahoman's but also many researchers finding information on the Yuchi's.

"I am excited about the collage. I have been graciously supported by corporate donations this year, which is helping me create this work of art," Maxey says. Hobby Lobby, The Employment Guide, Cedar Creek Lumber and Sun Circle Productions are corporate sponsors of Maxey's collage this year. "I am also happy that I can honor my families contribution by using many historical documents as my message. Oklahoma is a great state, and was helped by many Indians in the formation of what Oklahoma is today," Maxey states.

You can learn more of the Yuchi's and of Maxey previous art works; by visiting his art web site, http://www.tsoyaha.com. As well you can view his work in progress of his entry for this years collage.

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