Semple Family Museum of Native American Art
While you’re in Durant, you’ll want to spend some time at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, and the Semple Family Museum of Native American Art is the perfect place to start. This state-of-the-art museum was converted from a mid-century home and is surrounded by three acres of native forest, making the facility itself a work of art. With contributions from over 80 artists, the Semple Family Museum has one of the state's largest collections of native art and artifacts that cover over 30 tribes including Alaskan, Southwestern, and the Five Civilized Tribes.
Take a walk through the museum at your own pace, or book a guided tour with one of the art experts. The helpful and knowledgeable staff can provide incredible insight and information into the unique paintings, drawings, sculptures and batik pieces that tell the stories of Oklahoma tribes and beyond.
Theatre at Southeastern
While you’re on the SOSU campus, take in a stunning live performance at the Theatre at Southeastern. Talented actors regularly take the stage to perform incredible shows that include classic musicals, dinner theater and family-friendly children's shows. Past performances include classics like “The Importance of Being Earnest,” “9 to 5 the Musical” and “Junie B. Jones Jr. the Musical.” A spectacular live performance at the Theatre at Southeastern is the perfect additional activity to add to your solar eclipse viewing itinerary.
Magnolia Mile Art Alley
After you’ve seen the amazing art offerings at Southeastern Oklahoma State University, check out Durant’s vibrant downtown. The amazing Magnolia Mile Art Alley is jam-packed with one-of-a-kind works from local and regional artists that line the exterior walls of local businesses. Open to the public 24 hours a day, the alley has amazing views of the art covered in natural light during the day before being lit up by dazzling overhead lights once the sun goes down. The Magnolia Mile Art Alley regularly adds new works of art, ensuring a fresh experience whether you’re a repeat visitor or a first-time guest.
Elements Art Center
If you’re feeling inspired after a trip to the Magnolia Mile Art Alley, make some art of your own at the Elements Art Center. This unique art center is a fun place to learn with hands-on instruction from professionally trained artists. Whether you’re an experienced painter or trying something new, the helpful staff can help bring out the artist in any visitor.
Elements Art Center offers a variety of available classes where guests can learn the basics of watercolor painting and charcoal drawing or engage in specific prompts like Paint Your Pet, Southwest Sunrise and Memories in Paris. Elements Art Center is fun and informative for all ages, with kid’s art clubs offered weekly. Take part in one of these open classes or book a private party for you and your eclipse viewing crew.
The Country Framer
Check out a completely different kind of art at The Country Framer. This locally owned shop has offered custom framing at a low cost to Durant locals and visitors for years. After a trip to Italy, owners Alvina and Mike Ralls were inspired to convert their frame shop into a unique art gallery full of ceramic clay beads and glass fusion art.
Admire the gallery owner’s work which includes ceramic clay bead making and glass fusion in a number of shapes and styles. In addition to their own work, The Country Framer displays a variety of art from local creators that include paintings, sculptures and more. Take a piece home with you from their selection of handcrafted jewelry.
