awards & recognition
2025 Choctaw art show
2nd Place - Beadwork
Beaded Choctaw medallion with a modern twist highlighting the face of Choctaw peoples. Named Faces of the Choctaw: Wak Apesʋchi (Cowboy) the monochrome flat peyote stitch portrait of Choctaw woman, Casie Jo Rutherford, highlights her time as Miss Rodeo Oklahoma 1996 and the native influence on the rodeo community. Inlayed in a traditional sunburst beaded medallion ring and finished with a white leather backing and beaded necklace.
Okla’s Choice
The Okla’s Choice Award is be given to the artist whose work receives the most votes from Choctaw Nation Art Show gallery visitors who vote for their favorite artwork.
2026 Choctaw art show
Honorable Mention - Beadwork
This two-sided medallion explores leadership as a reflection of community through a beaded portrait of Chief Gary Batton on one side and a mirror on the other. The peyote stitch portrait of Chief Batton portrays his leadership and dedication to preserving Choctaw culture during a time of growth and progress. The reverse side holds a mirror, symbolizing that true leadership is not centered on one man alone, but on the people whose strength, resilience, and traditions are reflected back through him. Both sides are surrounded by a traditional Choctaw sunburst to represent the connection between a chief, his people and their culture.