Cherokee artists have a new place to create, teach, and share their culture following the grand opening of the Cherokee Nations Ani Art Center in Stilwell.The Cherokee Nation celebrated the opening Aug 11 of the new 15,000-squar e-foot facility near West Locust Road and South Fourth Street.WATCH: Cherokee Nation opens new Ani Art Center in Stilwell Cherokee Nation opens new Ani Art Center in StilwellTravis Owens with Cherokee Nation Cultural Tourism said the center gives artists and the community a dedicated space to connect through Cherokee art and culture.Its such a great feeling to be able to finally open this facility to the community, Owens said. The Ani Art Center includes gallery space for rotating exhibits, areas for cultural classes and a secure space to house part of the Cherokee Nations growing art collection.Ani is the Cherokee word for strawberry, with the centers name paying tribute to Stilwells history as the Strawberry Capital of the World.The center was made possible through the Cherokee Artist Recovery Act. The Cherokee Nation has allocated $4 million through the act to purchase artwork from Cherokee artists, expand market access and create more opportunities for artists to showcase their work. Up to $1.6 million of that funding supports artist-related projects such as the Ani Art Center.It is so important to support our Cherokee artists. They are our greatest storytellers, Owens said.Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. said the opening also demonstrates the communitys support for investing in Cherokee artists.Beyond displaying artwork, the center will provide space for Cherokee artists to teach classes and pass their skills, traditions and knowledge to others.Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere -- 2 News Oklahoma on your schedule | Download on your TV, watch for free. How to watch on your streaming device Download our free app for Apple, Android and Kindle devices. Like us on Facebook Follow us on Instagram Watch LIVE 24/7 on YouTube ...read more read less