OKPOP

OKPOP: A Cultural Landmark in the Heart of Tulsa

Located in Tulsa’s Arts District, directly across from the iconic Cain’s Ballroom, OKPOP emerges as a world-class museum dedicated to Oklahoma’s profound contributions to popular culture. Completed in 2022, the 55,500-square-foot structure stands as a testament to the state’s creative legacy, though its doors remain closed as fundraising efforts continue to bring its exhibits to life. Once operational, OKPOP will transform into an immersive storytelling hub, celebrating Oklahoma’s indelible influence on music, film, television, literature, and beyond.

Architectural Vision: A Dialogue with History

The design of OKPOP is deeply rooted in its relationship to Cain’s Ballroom, a historic venue synonymous with Oklahoma’s musical heritage. The museum’s placement and form were meticulously crafted to frame views of the ballroom, creating a visual and symbolic connection to the past. A striking second-floor viewing window offers a panoramic perspective of Main Street, anchoring the museum in Tulsa’s cultural narrative and inviting visitors to engage with the city’s artistic legacy.

Engaging the Streetscape: Transparency and Connection

From the outset, OKPOP was conceived as a building that engages with its urban environment. The ground floor prioritizes transparency, featuring expansive glazing that allows passersby to glimpse the energy and creativity within. This openness is intentional, drawing the community into the museum’s narrative before they even step inside. In a bold architectural move, the design team collaborated with the City of Tulsa to extend portions of the building into air rights above the right-of-way, further integrating OKPOP into the streetscape and solidifying its presence as a cultural beacon.

Feature Staircase: A Sculptural Statement

At the heart of OKPOP’s design is its dramatic steel-and-concrete staircase, suspended from the ceiling and positioned within a glass divide in the facade. This architectural centerpiece serves as both a functional element and a visual landmark, bridging the museum’s interior spaces with the vibrant energy of the surrounding streetscape. The staircase’s design is echoed in the gold metal panels of the event space, which transition seamlessly from exterior to interior, blurring the boundaries between inside and outside, past and present.

Grit & Glitz: A Material Narrative

The material palette of OKPOP tells a story of duality—Grit & Glitz—a concept that captures the essence of Oklahoma’s creative spirit. Inspired by the legendary gold Fender Stratocaster played by Eldon Shamblin at Cain’s Ballroom, the design incorporates maple wood, gold metal, silver, and black accents. These materials reflect the raw energy and polished artistry that define Oklahoma’s cultural contributions, creating a tactile and visual experience that resonates with visitors even before the exhibits are installed.

Program & Future Experience

Though the museum is not yet open, its completed structure is designed to support a dynamic and engaging visitor experience:

• Level 01: The ground floor will offer a vibrant entry experience, featuring a 2,100-square-foot retail space, a welcoming lobby, a dedicated listening lounge, and a 2,400-square-foot exhibit gallery adjacent to a platform that showcases the restored Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys tour bus. Behind the scenes, administrative offices, archive storage, work rooms, and a shipping and receiving area will support the museum’s operations.
• Level 02: This floor will house a 9,600-square-foot exhibit gallery and a 3,400-square-foot event space, complete with a green room and catering kitchen. Designed for flexibility, this area will host exhibitions, programs, and special events, fostering a dynamic environment for cultural engagement.
• Level 03: The top floor will feature a 7,600-square-foot exhibit gallery and a 4,000-square-foot rooftop terrace, offering sweeping views of downtown Tulsa and historic Main Street. This space will provide a unique vantage point for reflection and celebration, connecting visitors to the city’s creative pulse.

A Cultural Legacy in Progress

OKPOP stands as a symbol of Oklahoma’s enduring creative impact, its architectural presence already enriching Tulsa’s Arts District. As fundraising efforts continue to bring its exhibits to life, the museum represents an evolving story—one that will soon unfold through immersive storytelling, interactive experiences, and an unparalleled collection of cultural artifacts. When its doors finally open, OKPOP will not only celebrate the past but also inspire future generations of artists, musicians, and storytellers, ensuring that Oklahoma’s creative legacy continues to thrive.