Cultural tourism report: 691 artists, 43,000 visitors; Ani Arts Center opens tomorrow

Molly Jarvis, speaking for cultural tourism, told the Cherokee Nation Culture Committee that “through June, we've had more than 691” artists participating in the program and that cultural sites recorded more than 43,000 visitors for the fiscal year. She said the figure includes multi‑tribal shows and that participation rose after the opening of the new Hastings Hospital.

Jarvis outlined coming events and openings. “The Ani Arts Center is opening tomorrow. It's 11AM tomorrow,” she said, and she noted the Cherokee Springs Gallery will be open Aug. 8 through Sept. 12. Jarvis also said a Cherokee artist marketplace will be held on Capitol Square on Sept. 5 and 6 during the holiday and parade.

Jarvis described the range of programs behind the numbers — an “artist recovery act,” public art bids, museums and art shows — and said staff are continuing to support artists with exhibitions, markets and site programming. Councilors asked brief follow‑up questions and thanked staff for the work.