About us

Wahzhazhe was produced by Randy Tinker Smith and choreographed by Jenna Smith LaViolette, both of Osage descent. Roman Jasinski (Shawnee, Peoria) acted as advisor on the project. The music for the ballet was composed by Lou Brock (Osage) and Dr. Joseph Rivers and arranged by Dr. Rivers. Costumes were designed and created by Wendy Ponca (Osage) and the late Terry Wann (Osage). Backdrop designer and painter was Alexandra Ponca Stock (Osage).

Our Mission

Art Maker is a non-profit charitable and educational Oklahoma organization established to support the arts, to nurture and preserve the ideals of education, culture and citizenship. Art Maker actively supports arts and humanities activities in our community.

Our programs

Art Maker programs include:

• Dance Maker Academy: founded in 2014, Dance Maker Academy serves the Osage County community of Pawhuska and surrounding areas and offers dance and drama classes to children and adults.

• Wahzhazhe, Osage Ballet and coming soon: Coyote and the Ant, a ballet adaptation of the Osage folk tale!

• Arts in Alternative Education (AAE): established in 2023 with a grant from Oklahoma Arts Council, AAE provides fine arts instruction and educational credit to students enrolled in Pawhuska Public High School’s Alternative Education program.

All Art Maker programs are funded through the generosity of individual donors, corporate sponsorship, and arts grants. If you would like to be part of offering arts enrichment in Pawhuska, find out more here!