“Our number one goal is to provide counseling services to people of all ages,” – Tricia Fields
TVLSE, Oklahoma – The Muscogee (Creek) Nation Youth Wellness Program partnered with the Cultural Center and Archives to host a Community Art Project event at the Tulsa Creek Community Center July 16. The event featured Muscogee Artist Joe Hopkins and allowed MCN Community Members of all ages to paint a collage.
According to MCN Youth Wellness Program Project Coordinator Tricia Fields, community engagements are one of the most important aspects of promoting mental health for her department. “Our number one goal is to provide counseling services to people of all ages,” Fields said.
The event gave out door prizes and served Indian tacos for lunch. It also featured informational booths on various behavioral health programs such as White Bison. “It’s like A.A. (Alcoholics Anonymous) with Native teachings,” Fields said. “People can meet people who look just like them that are young like them too.”
The event saw a crowd of at least 70 people. Some people came as far as Oklahoma City. While the event was open to all ages, it focused on providing family-oriented activities for children. “My part with behavioral health is to provide wellness to children,” Fields said.
Fields’ heart is easily found in her work, such as the community art project. “I hope that I get to work in behavioral health the rest of my life because it’s really changed me, and it’s helped my children as well,” Fields said.
Hopkins was a natural choice to be featured at the event. He’s known for his colorful contemporary pop art and has appeared at the Muscogee Art Market and Festival.
Hopkins led the collage project where everyone was assigned a tile to paint with instructions. It revealed a picture depicting the main cast of “Reservation Dogs” upon completion. Fields said they plan to exhibit the collage at Reservation Dogs Season Two Premiere at RiverSpirit Casino.
