785 Arts
- 112 SW 6th Ave.
- Topeka, KS 66603
ABOUT 785 ARTS
785 Arts opened in Topeka, Kansas in January, 2020 bringing authentic Cherokee arts to Amused Gallery located in Topeka's NOTO Arts & Entertainment district, including doublewall basketry, cornhusk dolls, red clay jewelry and contemporary arts. We also offer classes for children, adults, groups, homeschool groups, schools and creative aging. Classes include basketry, cornhusk dolls, Cherokee language, kids cultural camp experiences, and customized programs.
In January, 2022, 785 Arts reopened in Topeka's historic Columbian Building with the addition of an authentic Native American art gallery. The gallery features contemporary art from artists who are tribal citizens or certified by Federally-recognized tribal governments, following all requirements of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act. You can be assured that all items are genuine Native American made.
Lisa LaRue-Baker, proprietress, instructor and artist
Lisa LaRue Baker is an eclectic, a creator and a curator.
As a federally registered Native American (enrolled member of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma), she is a traditional double-wall basket maker, taught by Cherokee Nation Living Treasure Basket Maker Anna Sixkiller. As a staff member of Cherokee Nation’s Cultural Resource Center and later Director of Language, History and Culture for the Keetoowah Band of Cherokee in Oklahoma, she has taught thousands of children and adults over a 20+ year timespan, to make Cherokee baskets, cornhusk dolls, jewelry, as well as Cherokee language and culture. She was the Director of the Keetoowah’s tribal museum, and an exhibit designer for the Cherokee Heritage Center. She has her work in both museums, as well as the collection of the Five Civilized Tribes Museum and in numerous Federal government collections.
She was born and raised in Topeka, Kansas by her maternal grandparents, and spent most of her adult life in Oklahoma working for her fellow tribal citizens.