“Chromatic Vibrance” showcases the electrifying painting of Benjamin Harjo, Jr.(1945-2023), an acclaimed artist celebrated for his masterful use of bold and dynamic colors that invigorate the canvas. This exhibit is currently at The Haskell Cultural Center until October 31, 2025.On display are pieces collected by longtime friends Jonnie Ulrey and Michael Cornwell, reflecting their years of friendship with Harjo.The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Harjo’s exhibit runs through Oct. 31, 2025. More information is available at www.HaskellHistory.com or by contacting Travis Campbell at tcampbell@haskell.edu .Harjo has received numerous honors and his work is held in museums and public institutions across the country. Often described as one of the leading Native American artists of his generation—and sometimes dubbed “the Picasso of Native American art” for his boldness—his accolades include Best of Show at the 2005 Santa Fe Indian Market, Best of Show at the Cherokee Art Market, and Featured Artist for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian’s Aspen Benefit in 1992–93. He was also inducted into the Oklahoma State University Alumni Hall of Fame in 2012.Harjo’s work evolved over time, but geometric forms and patterns remained constant. Blocks, checkerboards and Seminole patchwork designs reflected his Seminole and Shawnee ancestry, while stories, artifacts and ancestral sites of Indigenous nations informed his art. He often turned to printmaking and pen-and-ink as his primary modes of expression.Harjo’s heritage is reflected in some of his artwork; he used the traditional use of Seminole patchwork. Harjo lived in Oklahoma City with his wife, where he remained active as an artist and mentor. The museum is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Harjo’s exhibit runs through Oct. 31, 2025. More information is available at www.HaskellHistory.com or by contacting Travis Campbell at tcampbell@haskell.edu .
