We Are Wahzhazhe Always
Artwork by Joe Don Brave
Wahzhazhe Youth Art Contest Winners
Sponsored by Osage Nation Foundation
As part of the 2026 Osage Nation Sovereignty Celebration, the Wahzhazhe Youth Art Contest invited Osage youth ages 4 to 18 to share their creativity and cultural expression through original artwork. Submissions included painting, drawing, graphic art, photography, and cultural arts such as beadwork, yarnwork, and ribbonwork. The contest was presented during the Sovereignty Celebration events and highlighted the talent, creativity, and cultural pride of Wahzhazhe youth.
Below are the youth artists who placed in this year’s contest across each age group and category. The Osage Nation Foundation was proud to sponsor this event and celebrate the next generation of Wahzhazhe artists.
Ages 4-6
Painting/Drawing/Graphic Art
1st - Lux Malaske
2nd - Sterling Calls Him
3rd - Azaria Bevard
Cultural Item
1st - Kyree Shopteese
Ages 13-15
Painting/Drawing/Graphic Art
1st - Wa.Sta.Tse Hammer
Photography
1st - Signey Redcorn
2nd - Wa.Sta.Tse Hammer
Ages 7-9
Painting/Drawing/Graphic Art
1st - Harley Hamilton
2nd - Ottie Free
3rd - Wa.Tsa.Moie Hammer
Photography
1st - Wa.Tsa.Moie Hammer
Cultural Item
1st - Arthur Redcorn
2nd - Sage Bighorse
Ages 10-12
Painting/Drawing/Graphic Art
1st - Annelise Boyle
2nd - Shaylynn Littlecook
3rd - Raylee Ducotey
Cultural Item
1st - Corbin Rose
2nd - Mylah Beaver
Ages 16-18
Painting/Drawing/Graphic Art
1st - Maddisen Buck
2nd - Michaela Pratt
3rd - Jonathan Riddle
OSAGE NATION HISTORY
Flowing like the calm waters in the background, the Osage are known as the “People of the Middle Waters.” Our name—derived from the French interpretation of Wazhazhe, meaning “Middle Water”—echoes our legacy of strength and balance. From bold warriors and skilled hunters to resilient stewards of our land, our history is a testament to enduring tradition and triumph over hardship.
Today, the Osage honor our heritage by weaving ancient traditions into modern life. Our cultural celebrations and ceremonies keep the spirit of our ancestors alive, connecting the past with the present.
OSAGE NATION MISSION
The Osage Nation Foundation primarily works to promote and enhance the general welfare of the people of the Osage Nation by supporting cultural, educational, health, historical, community and other appropriate activities and programs. Our funding supports projects directly impacting and benefiting Osage Nation members, particularly artists and youth, in addition to causes and activities supporting the communities where Osage live and work.