Arts and Humanities

We believe that the arts translate easily into economic growth 

A study by Americans for the Arts (Arts & Economic Prosperity 5)  provides evidence that the nonprofit arts and culture sector is a significant industry in the State of Oklahoma - one that generates $872.8 million in total economic activity. 

This spending - $331.2 million by nonprofit arts and cultural organizations and an additional $541.6 million in event-related spending by their audiences - supports 29,165 full-time equivalent jobs, generating $588.2 million in household income to local residents, and delivers $84.5 million in local and state government revenue.

This economic impact study sends a strong signal that when we support the arts, we not only enhance our quality of life but also invest in the State of Oklahoma’s economic well-being. Read the full report here.

Learn more about how the arts support our local communities and state through Oklahoma Arts Council and 

Oklahomans for the Arts.

As humans, artistic and humanistic pursuits come naturally and take part in all of our lives. Our brains are hard wired for creativity, curiosity, and contemplation. 

In 1965, the U.S. Congress established the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) and the National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH)

The easiest to understand the distinction is if you think of the arts as centralizing on the aesthetic experience ones artwork, such as a painting, a dance, a text, or a theatrical performance. The humanities then ask us to dig in and reflect, critique, and contextualize those works. The arts can be an influential tool for a humanities program to help us express or understand a human experience.

In simple terms, “the humanities” are a branch of knowledge that study aspects of human society and culture. Public humanities programs help people reflect upon their experiences to understand current events and issues better or appreciate what makes us human. 

 “The Arts” are the doing part; “The Humanities” are talking about it.

Our office supports various City of Lawton Trusts, Boards, and Committees that foster the Arts and Humanities.

McMahon Auditorium Authority is a public trust dedicated to furthering the vision of Mrs. Louise D. McMahon to advocate the advancement of the arts and other educational and cultural endeavors through the use of the McMahon Memorial Auditorium. Visit swokarts.com for more information about events and information about the auditorium.

• Lawton Arts & Humanities Committee exists to encourage and coordinate cultural endeavors and activities. We are providing understanding, knowledge, enjoyment, and practice of the arts and humanities, advancing the development of our citizens, contributing to the general welfare of the City and the area, and encouraging and stimulating all forms of artistic, literary, and other endeavors in the humanities.
• International Festival Committee oversees the planning of Lawton’s annual International Festival, a free, three-day event to promote greater awareness and appreciation of Lawton’s diverse heritage. This family-oriented extravaganza is full of fun, food, children’s games and activities, demonstration artists, retailers, concerts, and multicultural experiences that make the Lawton Fort Sill Community unique. Visit swokarts.com for more information about this year’s festival.

Lawton Enhancement Trust Authority (LETA) is a public trust that exists to beautify and esthetically enhance the appearance of the City of Lawton. LETA’s purpose includes serving as a fair and impartial body responsible for the administration, management, and expenditure of the public and private funds entrusted to it. And it encourages and stimulates interest among and endeavors by public and private entities, groups, and individuals who share the vision of a more beautiful City of Lawton.

• Lawton - Ft. Sill Freedom Festival Committee oversees the planning of Lawton’s celebration of America’s Independence Day. 
• Lawton Beautiful Awards Gala Committee
• Cultural Preservation Committee 

Jason Poudrier - Arts & Humanities Administrator

Andrea Morman - Deputy Arts & Humanities Administrator

Michell Rosario - Community Events & Outreach Coordinator

Haley Moore - Digital Media & Records Assistant 

Ashlin Penn - Theatrical Technical Coordinator 

Broderick Jackson II - Maintenance Technician

Stavis Morman - House Manager

Manuel Smith Jr. - Maintenance Technician (part time)