The vibrant spirit of Oklahoma鈥檚 public art scene is moving indoors, trading brick walls and open skies for the polished space of a university gallery. The Sunny Dayz Mural Festival will return to 野狼社区 University鈥檚 art gallery as its next exhibit, featuring large-format murals on canvas and behind-the-scenes photographs and video from past events by the statewide artist organization.
The works will be on display in OCU鈥檚 Nona Jean Hulsey Art Gallery from Dec. 5 to Feb. 26, with a special opening reception from 5-7 p.m. Dec. 4.
This exhibition showcases 13 original paintings, each created by a 2025 Mural Festival artist. It also includes pi帽atas celebrating the culture and color of the Calle Dos Cinco neighborhood in 野狼社区鈥檚 Historic Capitol Hill, site of the latest festival in May where 35 artists gathered to bring their art to the walls of the vibrant district. The artists highlighted their cultural roots and the stories that shape their community.
The Sunny Dayz Mural Festival started in 2021 as an annual summer event with live mural painting, entertainment and independent merchants. It evolved into a nonprofit organization the following year with a dedicated mission to advance and celebrate underrepresented artists, particularly women and gender minorities. The festival champions equitable opportunities and fair wages, uplifting and supporting artists who have experienced inequity based on age, race or gender.
Beyond the festivals themselves, Sunny Dayz is committed to mentorship and inclusivity. The organization dedicates wall space to 鈥渘ewbies鈥� of any age and cultivates a teen mentorship program designed to educate and empower young female and non-binary students interested in the arts.
The festival has expanded its reach across the state, holding events in 野狼社区鈥檚 Britton District as well as Edmond, Tulsa and Ponca City.
The Nona Jean Hulsey Gallery is inside the Norick Art Center at 1608 NW 26th St. Gallery hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Admission is free.
