In celebration of Native American Heritage Month, the students of the Oconaluftee Institute for Cultural Arts Printmaking class have a selection of their class projects using the Cherokee Language on display in the Balsam Building Lobby at Southwestern Community College.
Part of the “Uktena” book in Cherokee Syllabary , by OICA student Carrie Atkinson. (Photo by Jeffrey Marley/OICA)
The letterpress has been a tremendous addition to the Fine Arts Program at OICA. The purchase of the letterpress was funded by grants from Cherokee Preservation Foundation the Institute of Museum and Library Services. The Cherokee Syllabary was re-cast in two sizes, a 14pt and an 18pt, for use with the letterpress.
“We are now incorporating the Cherokee Language into our work while teaching students basic printing skills,” said Frank Brannon, Printmaking Instructor at OICA.
Since the press has arrived at OICA, it has made a huge impact within the program and community. OICA Printmaking students have created hand printed materials for WCU’s Cherokee Language Program as well as aiding community events such as the recent Cherokee Indian Hospital Heritage Gala.
Southwestern Community College offers an Associate of Fine Arts degree program at The Oconaluftee Institute for Cultural Arts. The Oconaluftee Institute for Cultural Arts is located on Highway 19 North, behind Tribal Bingo at 70 Bingo Loop in Cherokee, NC.
For more information about the Oconaluftee Institute of Cultural Arts, Southwestern Community College and the Associate in Fine Arts program, Jeff Marley 497-3945; or on the web at southwesterncc.edu/finearts/
– OICA
