River & Word Arts Collective grew out of a simple but powerful idea: that Tahlequah needed a gathering place where all forms of creativity could meet, collaborate, and grow.

The collective was born from conversations between four friends and artists — Shelley Nation, Kathy Tibbits, Kellie Vann, and Dena Coleman — each bringing her own voice to the table. Shelley, a published poet, hosts regular poetry readings. Kathy, a fiber artist, creates one-of-a-kind quilts and tie-dyes. Kellie is both a writer and a visual artist, and Dena is a visual artist and songwriter whose guitar and voice carry stories of real life.

What began as shared discussions soon became a shared vision. Their friendships and talents sought higher heights, and together they opened the doors of River & Word in the fall of 2025.

Though we are just beginning, our purpose is clear: to be a home for creativity in all its forms. Look forward to new classes, thought-provoking exhibitions, welcoming community events, and music that moves the heart.

At River & Word, art and word meet in a collaborative celebration of free expression — and you’re invited to be part of it.

Come see what we’re about at 219 N. Muskogee Avenue, in beautiful downtown Tahlequah, OK.