GLENPOOL, Okla. – It was a chilly afternoon in Glenpool, but that didn’t stop people from flocking to the Glenpool Convention Center to attend the Indian Sweetheart Market on Jan. 18. The convention center was packed full of people looking to have an afternoon of fun visiting the various booths and eating the delicious food provided by Autumn Star Catering. Music for the event was provided by a handful of musicians, including DJ Bravehorse, who handled music for most of the event, as well as a performance by musician Paul Anquoe and local band POAM, also known as Phate of a Marauder.
The booths at the event carried a wide array of items for sale, ranging from art such as paintings or caricatures, to jewelry and clothing of all kinds. There was also a variety of handmade goods, including beadwork and home decorations, and items such as soaps and cosmetics. The event was even attended by a caricature artist, John Whitfield of Caricatures by John, also known as the Caricature Extraordinaire, who drew a variety of pictures for attendees.
The primary caterer, Autumn Star Catering, also provided cheap and delicious food for any attendees who wanted it, with options including Indian tacos, rez burgers, frybread, chili dogs, and drinks like coffee and water. Desserts were also provided for sale by the event’s featured artist, Tree Trunk Bakery, who sold cakes, macarons, cupcakes, and other baked goods.
Jon M. Tiger, an artist out of Eufaula, Oklahoma, described it as an enjoyable experience overall, and was happy to be able to meet new people and potential clients. He was also thankful to Tricia Alexander for working to show off local artists and creators. He is excited at the possibility of working to expand his audience, showcase his artwork, and to, in his words, “expose my tribal stories.”
This happiness regarding the day’s events were echoed by the event’s organizer, Tricia Alexander, the owner of Autumn Star Catering. She was very pleased with how the day went, and is excited at the possibility of future events like this one being set up.
“I’m very pleased with how the event went. We had steady attendance throughout the day, even before it was open to the public. We had a majority of returning artists, as well as several artists who set up with us for the first time. … It’s always nice seeing the variety of different styles and creativity. The DJ did a great job as well as the band that was last. We had frybread burgers, Indian tacos, and chili dogs once we ran out of frybread. I appreciate everyone’s support, help, attendance, business, and encouragement.”
