Jane Osti facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Jane Osti
Jane Osti demonstrating handling a paddle for stamping pottery, 2006
Born	1945 (1945) (age 80) Tahlequah, Oklahoma, United States
Nationality	Cherokee Nation
Education	B.A. in Art, Master of Science in Higher Education
Alma mater	Northeastern State University
Known for	Cherokee pottery
Style	Southeastern Woodland/Mound builders inspired pottery, Raku pottery
Elected	Cherokee Living Treasure, Oklahoma Arts Council

Jane Osti, born in 1945 in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, is a talented artist from the Cherokee Nation. She is famous for making traditional Cherokee pottery, adding her own special touches and designs. In 2005, the Cherokee Nation honored her as a 'Living Treasure,' a special title given to important artists. She was one of the youngest to receive this award. Today, Jane Osti teaches others and creates beautiful pottery in her studio in Tahlequah.

Jane Osti's Early Life

Jane Osti grew up in the Rocky Ford area of Tahlequah. Her father worked as a miner and later became a rancher, raising cattle. Her mother, who was Cherokee, passed away when Jane was only five. Jane didn't get to explore art much when she was younger. She took art classes in fourth and fifth grade, but that was her only chance to learn about it for a while. Jane went to Oaks Mission High School.

Jane's Education Journey

Jane got married and started a family. She didn't begin college until she was 33 years old. She took her first classes at a community college in San Francisco. In 1985, Jane moved back to Tahlequah. She finished her college studies at Northeastern State University.

Jane earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in art in 1989. She then continued her studies right away. In 1992, she graduated with her Master of Science degree in education.

How Jane Started in Art

Jane Osti took classes with a professor named Jerry Choate. These classes were very important for her future as an artist who creates 3D art. After her first pottery class, while also taking a Cherokee history course, Jane decided to interview Anna Mitchell for a school paper.

Anna Mitchell quickly became Jane's teacher, mentor, and friend. During this time, Jane changed her focus from 2D art, like drawing, to 3D art, like pottery. She truly fell in love with making pottery.

Jane Osti's Pottery Style

Jane Osti's pottery style is inspired by ancient Mississippian culture. It also draws from the art of prehistoric southeastern woodland people. She uses special methods like coil and slab construction to build her pots. She also uses stone polishing, glazing, and a firing method called raku-firing.

Her pottery often shows abstract animals and landscapes. These designs include symbols of the sky, protection, and strength. Jane is also known for her complex stamped patterns. She uses wooden paddles with detailed carvings to create these designs. One paddle is even covered in fiber, like the very first paddles used long ago.

The paddle stamping method is an old tradition. It helps spread heat evenly and gives a better grip on the pot. This method also adds amazing beauty to everyday objects. Jane often adds notched rims and detailed traditional patterns. She mixes these with designs from nature to create her unique look.

Awards and Achievements

Jane Osti has won many awards for her art. She has received honors from several important exhibitions, including:

• Santa Fe Indian Market
• Five Civilized Tribes Museum
• Red Earth Indian Arts Festival
• The grand prize at the 10th annual Cherokee Homecoming Art Show and Sale

In 2005, the Cherokee Nation named Jane Osti a 'Living Treasure.' She was one of the youngest Cherokee artists to receive this special recognition.

Her artwork, called Tall squash pot, is now part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. It was acquired for the Renwick Gallery's 50th Anniversary Campaign.

Images for kids

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  Jane Osti demonstrating handling a paddle for stamping pottery, 2006