Moscelyne Larkin, alongside her husband Roman Jasinski, co-founded the Tulsa Ballet, helping to establish professional dance at a high level in Oklahoma and inspiring future generations of dancers. The idea for the Five Moons project originated with artist Monte England, who, inspired by the achievements of these women, began work in 1995. After England’s death, Gary Henson completed the unfinished figures, carefully ensuring the details honored each ballerina’s unique contributions.

Larkin’s sculpture is a vital part of the Five Moons circle in Tulsa’s Vintage Garden, symbolizing her impact both on and off the stage. It serves not only as an artistic tribute but as a source of inspiration for Native American youth, dance enthusiasts, and visitors, celebrating Larkin’s pioneering spirit and dedication to the arts.

The English version is read by Elise Paschen, daughter of Maria Tallchief. Following the English narration, an Osage language version is read by Dora Williams of the Osage Nation Language Department, ensuring everyone can experience this story in both English and Osage.

Designed initially by artist Monte England and completed by Gary Henson after England’s passing, the sculpture honors Hightower’s groundbreaking achievements, including her work as a dance educator and her recognition by the French government as a Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur. Within the Five Moons circle, Hightower’s statue stands as a lasting tribute alongside her fellow Native American ballerinas, symbolizing the international impact and cultural pride these women brought to Oklahoma and beyond.

The Five Moons garden itself serves as a reflective space in Tulsa, where the Hightower sculpture inspires visitors to remember her legacy as both a performer and teacher, and as a symbol of Native American excellence in the fine arts.

The sculpture presents Yvonne Chouteau in a ballet pose that honors her groundbreaking roles and lifelong dedication to dance education. Notably, Chouteau went on to co-found the Oklahoma City Ballet and the OU School of Dance, influencing generations of ballet dancers in Oklahoma and beyond. Her leadership in these institutions extended her artistic legacy and reflected her commitment to Native American visibility in the arts.

Unlike Marjorie Tallchief’s statue, Chouteau’s sculpture has remained intact, standing as a symbol of perseverance and excellence. It is an important part of the garden’s circle, celebrating the achievements of Oklahoma’s Native American ballerinas, and serves as an inspiration for young dancers and artists visiting the museum.

In April 2022, tragedy struck when Marjorie's statue was stolen, sawed off its base, and sold for scrap; it was later found in pieces, with much of it damaged and unrecoverable. The theft shocked the local community and arts supporters nationwide. After a GoFundMe campaign and extensive efforts, artist Gary Henson personally restored the work, casting missing parts, hammering out dents, and painstakingly repairing the sculpture over a year.

On October 29, 2023, the restored statue was unveiled to hundreds of supporters, reuniting it with the other Five Moons and reaffirming Marjorie Tallchief’s legacy as a beacon of excellence and perseverance in Native American artistry and dance.

The English version is read by Nathalie Skibine, granddaughter of Marjorie Tallchief. Following the English audio, an Osage language version is read by Dora Williams of the Osage Nation Language Department, presenting this story in both English and Osage for listeners everywhere.

The Maria Tallchief sculpture in Tulsa’s Five Moons garden honors America’s first major prima ballerina and a trailblazing member of the Osage Nation. Created by artists Monte England and Gary Henson, the bronze statue was unveiled in 2007 to celebrate her immense influence on ballet and Native American representation in the arts. The sculpture captures Tallchief in a signature ballet pose, reflecting her role in “The Firebird,” which brought her worldwide acclaim. The Five Moons installation collectively celebrates five Oklahoma Native ballerinas who broke racial barriers and reshaped the performing arts.

Maria Tallchief’s legacy remains vital in Oklahoma—her image and Osage name appeared on a U.S. women’s quarter and a 2023 Native American $1 coin. Amid community celebrations, Maria’s story was further spotlighted during the unveiling and restoration of her sister Marjorie’s statue in 2023 after the original was stolen and destroyed. The garden and sculpture serve not only as artistic tributes but also as powerful symbols of inspiration, honoring Tallchief’s groundbreaking achievements and everlasting impact on generations of dancers.

The English audio narration is read by Elise Paschen, daughter of Maria Tallchief. Following the English audio, an Osage language translation is provided by Dora Williams of the Osage Nation Language Department, ensuring Maria Tallchief’s story is shared in both English and Osage.