Jun 05 Friday
The exhibit Bizarre Headgear presents evolution to the extreme. 12 foot antlers and billboard sized heads are just some of the dramatic examples of bizarre headgear on display. See the amazing ways evolution has equipped the prehistoric animal world for combat and courtship. From the evolution of giant horned dinosaurs to their outrageous mammalian counterparts, this exhibit traces evolution of bizarre head structures throughout time.
On the Edge: The Abstract World of Frederick Hammersley traces the artist’s pursuit of abstraction across spontaneous compositions, geometric designs, and works that sought to break from tradition. Frederick Hammersley (1919–2009) is recognized as a key figure in the mid-century Hard-edge movement—a style defined by precise geometric compositions and a strong focus on the relationship between color and form, marked by sharp edges and clearly defined shapes. This exhibition features more than 45 paintings and drawings from the Hugon Collection, offering a unique glimpse into Hammersley’s distinctive style and artistic process.
On the Edge: The Abstract World of Frederick Hammersley is organized by the Fred Jones Jr. Museum of Art and supported by the Hugon Family and generous donors to the museum’s endowment.
The exhibit explores how Oklahoma’s 400-plus miles of drivable highway shaped communities along the route and continues to draw travelers today.
Route 66 was created in 1926 and quickly became one of the most consequential roads in American history. For Oklahomans, it was an escape route during the Dust Bowl, an economic lifeline for roadside communities, and eventually a casualty of the interstate system. “The Longest Stretch” traces that full arc, from the road’s rise to its decline, and into its revival through preservation and tourism.
Major artifacts on display include a 1915 Model T Roadster, a restored Taft Stadium sign, a Big Boy statue, and a 1961 Corvette on loan from the National Corvette Museum. Hands-on interactives will allow visitors to engage directly with the story of Route 66 and its evolution over time.
Explore Anthony McCall's groundbreaking "solid light" works in the North American debut of Anthony McCall: Solid Light. Presented in collaboration with Tate, UK, visitors will experience breaktaking interactive light sculptures in Oklahoma Contemporary's Eleanor Kirkpatrick Main Gallery.
For more information: 405-951-0000, okcontemp.org/solidlight
Image: Installation photography of Anthony McCall: Solid Light exhibition at Tate Modern, June 27, 2024–June 29, 2025. © Anthony McCall; Photo © Tate.
Explore Jakian Parks: The Black Land. Though the lens of photographer Jakian Parks, Oklahoma’s Black rodeo culture becomes both symbol and setting for survival, resurgence and celebration. Much like the rodeo itself, The Black Land connects the past and present, situating the American West as a living archive and center stage for Black cattlemen and cowboys alike. The Black Land honors the dignity, beauty and power of Black equestrian life as a living tradition of cultural and historical significance.
For more information: 405-951-0000, okcontemp.org/jakianparks
Explore a monumental outdoor installation by Oklahoma City–based artists Denise Duong and Gabriel Friedman that transforms Campbell Art Park into a site of story, symbolism, and discovery. Conceived as a constellation of six sculptural forms, including a head, a hand, and four birdlike spheres, the work invites viewers to enter a world where order and chaos intertwine.
Make your way to the First Friday Gallery Walk in Oklahoma City's Paseo Arts District to enjoy art gallery openings, wine tastings, live music and more. More than 80 artists and over 25 businesses, all within walking distance, participate by showcasing new works and keeping their doors open late. Plan to visit this lively area for the free gallery walks. Leashed pets are welcome.
Jun 06 Saturday
Featuring over 60 animatronic dinosaurs, skeletons, photo ops, and rides - Dinosaur Expedition will engage guests with prehistoric creatures from the Jurassic, Cretaceous, and Triassic Periods. Identify which OKC Zoo animals are the living relatives of the dinosaurs that once roamed the earth, and how supporting the Zoo's conservation efforts can help save these species!
Take your museum visit to the next level—literally! Starting on June 7, spend your Saturday mornings on the OKCMOA Roof Terrace, a scenic spot to vibe and take in the sights and sounds of downtown Oklahoma City. Enjoy locally sourced pastries and refreshing drinks available for purchase—the perfect prelude to a day of film and fine art.
Access to the Roof Terrace is included with a film ticket purchase or gallery admission. Simply show your purchase confirmation to the Admission desk, then ride up the elevator!
Members always receive free admission. Not a member? Join today at okcmoa.com/membership.