TULSA, Okla. –
Tulsa International Airport is welcoming travelers with two exhibits designed to showcase the people, places and living history of the region.
Airport leaders on Feb. 17 announced a new photography installation and the extension of a cultural exhibit highlighting the Muscogee Nation. Both were selected in collaboration with the airport’s volunteer Cultural Advisory Group.
Together, the displays aim to give visitors a deeper look at Tulsa’s creativity, heritage and community spirit.
Tulsa faces and places
The new exhibit, “Tulsa Faces and Places,” features the work of Tulsa photographer Anitra Lavanhar. The collection includes 20 framed photographs highlighting local landmarks and residents from across Green Country.
Lavanhar, a fine art photographer, portrait artist and instructor, is known for her urban landscapes, nature photography, street scenes and creative portraiture. Airport officials said the exhibit captures Tulsa’s energy and character through her unique perspective.
The display is located before the TSA security checkpoint in the pedestrian walkway tunnels connecting the terminal to the parking garage. One tunnel is on the lower level of Concourse A baggage claim and the other is on the lower level of Concourse B baggage claim. Each tunnel features 10 framed photographs.
The exhibit will remain on display from February 2026 through February 2027.
Honoring Muscogee history and art
Tulsa International Airport is also extending and refreshing the exhibit “Mvskoke: Culture, Connection, Continuous, Contemporary,” curated by Carly Treece of Tvlse Studios.
The exhibit celebrates the history, culture and artistic traditions of the Muscogee people. It has been on display in the terminal for the past year and will now continue through June 30, 2026.
Located past the TSA security checkpoint near the Concourse A gates, the exhibit spans four display cases organized by theme:
Culture highlights the historical roots of the Muscogee Nation through maps, historical documents and literary works.
Connection features family traditions and heirlooms that reflect resilience, love and continuity.
Continuous showcases textiles, beadwork and traditional art forms that represent the unbroken thread of Muscogee creativity.
Contemporary spotlights modern Muscogee artists who reimagine tradition for a new generation.
As part of the extension, new pieces have been added to the Connection and Continuous cases, including a dress by Leslie Deer and stomp dance cans by Britt Postoak.
Originally created to emphasize the deep historical ties between Tulsa and the Muscogee Creek Nation, whose historical boundaries include present day Tulsa, the exhibit brings together artifacts, heirlooms and contemporary artwork reflecting the enduring spirit of the Muscogee people.
“I’m grateful that this exhibit has been extended so that people arriving in Tulsa are greeted by Muscogee art and culture the moment they step into the airport,” Treece said. “It’s an honor to showcase both traditional and contemporary art forms, and I’m thankful to the artists who help tell the story of what it means to be Muscogee. The exhibit highlights the strength, connection, creativity and sovereignty of the Muscogee people.”
Creating first impressions
“The airport is where so many first impressions of Tulsa begin,” said Stephanie Chester, director of marketing and customer engagement at Tulsa International Airport. “Through these exhibits, we’re able to highlight the creativity and cultural depth of our community. We appreciate Anitra Lavanhar and Carly Treece for sharing their art and stories with our passengers.”
The airport’s Cultural Advisory Group was formed in 2006 by local arts leaders and airport staff. The group developed a plan to incorporate art and cultural exhibits throughout the terminal to showcase local artists, galleries and museums.
Tulsa International Airport served more than 3 million passengers in 2025. Eight air carriers provide nonstop service to 27 destinations across the country.
