Last week we were introduced to Shannon Gilbert, President & CEO for the Oklahoma Arts Institute (OAI).
Shannon shared with us that for over four decades, the Oklahoma Arts Institute (OAI) has stood as a beacon for artistic growth and exploration in the heartland. This unique program offers intensive, discipline-specific workshops for talented students and educators, fostering creativity, collaboration, and a lifelong passion for the arts.
Nestled in the serene surroundings of Quartz Mountain State Park, OAI provides an immersive environment where artists of all levels can hone their skills, expand their perspectives, and connect with a vibrant community.
Founded in 1975, the Oklahoma Arts Institute has a long and rich history of nurturing artistic talent. From its humble beginnings, it has grown into a nationally recognized program that attracts students and educators from across the state and beyond.
Over the years, countless individuals have benefited from the rigorous training, inspiring mentorship, and transformative experiences offered at OAI. Alumni have gone on to achieve success in a wide range of artistic fields, from visual arts and music to writing and theatre.
What sets OAI apart is its commitment to providing immersive learning environments.
The institute offers a variety of summer workshops led by nationally renowned artists and educators who are passionate about sharing their expertise and guiding participants on their artistic journeys. Students and teachers alike spend days immersed in their chosen discipline, participating in workshops, lectures, master classes, and individual critiques.
In addition to its student programs, OAI also offers workshops specifically designed for educators. These workshops provide teachers with the tools and resources they need to enhance their teaching practices and inspire their students.
The Summer Institute is currently in session. Please visit the OAI website for information on public presentations.