The Old Town Arts District at dusk. © Scottsdale Gallery Association.
While other states in the country prepare for their cold, winter months, Arizona comes alive with its dynamic, diverse art scene. It’s not all tumbleweeds and dusty earth but rather a burgeoning art destination from the small northern towns of Flagstaff, Prescott and Sedona, to the larger cities of Phoenix, Tucson and Scottsdale.
One of the largest gallery districts in the country occupies Old Town Scottsdale, with 30-plus galleries populating the scenic area. Visitors can find art from all walks of life including contemporary and traditional pieces at galleries such as The Legacy Gallery, Paul Scott Gallery and Wilde Meyer Gallery. Every Thursday from 6:30 to 9:00 p.m., the galleries stay open for the ArtWalk with themed nights during select months known as the Gold Palette series, organized by the Scottsdale Gallery Association.
Scottsdale is also home to Western Spirit: Scottsdale Museum of the West, Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts and the Scottsdale Artists’ School. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art is also a prominent fixture in the community by inspiring change and challenges perceptions with its innovative exhibitions and programs. Exhibitions such as Unapologetic: All Women, All Year and the upcoming Diedrick Brackens: Ark of Bulrushes, from February 6 through August 22, are just a couple examples of their diverse focus.
The city also offers events such as Celebration of Fine Art and Arizona Fine Art EXPO, full of artist engagement and demonstrations. In addition to live demos, Celebration of Fine Art, running from January 10 through March 28, will host its Art Discovery Series involving panel discussions and artist dialogue every Friday of the event from 4 to 5 p.m. Arizona Fine Art EXPO, from January 15 through March 28, provides attendees the opportunity to visit 124 artist studios and get an up-close look at the art process in its many forms.
Civic Center Park Downtown Phoenix. Photo by Mark Lipczynski; © Visit Phoenix.
Downtown Phoenix also offers an abundance of fun art events and activities such as First Friday Art Walk and Art Detour, all surrounding the creative landscape of Roosevelt Row Arts District, Warehouse District and Historic Grand Avenue. In addition, the popular Phoenix Art Museum has more than 20,000 objects and showcases exhibitions ranging from haute couture fashion to Old Master paintings. It also has Latin American art as seen in the special exhibition Stories of Abstraction: Contemporary Latin American Art in the Global Context, running through the end of January.
To the South is the city of Tucson, which has its own inspiring art hubs, such as the historic Fourth Avenue with its biannual Fourth Avenue Spring Street Fair, from March 10 to March 21. The fair features artists from all over the world and includes food and local entertainment. Visitors can also find their fill at the Tucson Desert Art Museum and the Tucson Museum of Art.
Heading North to the small town of Flagstaff, serving as the gateway to the Grand Canyon National Park, there is rich Native American history. This is further explored at the Museum of Northern Arizona. While many of their events are postponed, the museum celebrates Native and Indigenous people and their traditional and contemporary artwork at their Fall Heritage Festival and Winter Market. In Sedona, art enthusiasts can flock to many fine art galleries and the Sedona Arts Center, which showcases the largest selection of local artwork. The center also offers workshops and hosts the annual Sedona Plein Air Festival every October.
Many artists have also settled in the state and offer collectors the chance to view their artwork in person. Included maong them are Cinque Smith, who resides in Scottsdale, and Pamela Becker of Sedona who runs Big Vision Arts.
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The Legacy Gallery
7178 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 945-1113
www.legacygallery.com
The Legacy Gallery, based in Scottsdale, Arizona, specializes in Western, Americana and landscape works. “We provide fine art that stands the test of time for all collector levels—from established connoisseurs to new enthusiasts,” say owners Brad and Jinger Richardson. 
The Legacy Gallery, Madre De Maria, oil, 30 x 30", by George Hallmark.
The Legacy Gallery, Skylar, oil, 20 x 16", by Jeremy Lipking.
The Legacy Gallery, Harmony in Yellow and Green, 19 x 31", by Daniel J. Keys.
Legacy has two exhibitions coming up this spring. The first, titled The Painted West Show, features a group of nine artists, and will run from February 12 through 21, with the artist reception on November 13, from 5 to 7 p.m. This much-anticipated show will exhibit new works by Bill Anton, G. Russell Case, Glenn Dean, John Moyers, Terri Kelly Moyers, Kyle Polzin, Jason Rich, Matt Smith and Morgan Weistling. This grouping of artists conveys different styles of Western art, from the realistic to the contemporary.
Legacy’s next show will be for acclaimed artist Jeremy Lipking on March 13. It will feature 15 new works of both Western and Americana works and will hang until March 21.
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Cinque Smith
Scottsdale, AZ
(480) 527-5862
www.cinqueart.com
Cinque Smith, a self-taught artist who originated from a small town in Dayton, Ohio, was inspired early on by illustration, film and music. “I cite my use of people as a vessel to have a commonality and a spiritual connection with the viewer,” explains Smith. “Through visual storytelling there has been no greater personal instrument that has guided and helped me to cultivate and manifest my artistry.” 
Cinque Smith, Crowns for Queens, acrylic, 40 x 30"
Smith’s work is a combination of different techniques with a strong emphasis on studying the human condition. His current collection, titled Better in Tune with the Infinite, deals with themes in self-actualization, power, femininity and the search for ever-evolving elevated humanity.
“My use of color, texture and symbolism is no more than a visual extension of how I communicate with the viewer. Women of color are my muse for this series with varying spiritual ambiance, aura, character and emotional engagement,” the artist says.
Cinque Smith, Black Parade, mixed medium, 40 x 30"
Cinque Smith, Her Eyes Are Watching God, mixed medium, 30 x 47"
Robust vibrant colors mixed with underlying spirituality coupled with an Afro-futuristic dynamic, sets the tone for the series. Spirituality and self-preservation are also a guiding force behind the work.
“There is a piece of my spirit and insecurities coupled with my thirst for resolution sampled within every painting,” Smith furthers. “When collectors approach this body of work, I hope that they come with an open mind and take time to receive and embrace the work with open arms.”
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Celebration of Fine Art
18400 N. Hayden Road
Scottdale, AZ 85255
(480) 443-7695
info@celebrateart.com
www.celebrateart.com
Celebration of Fine Art is a juried, invitational show that has come to be recognized for its diverse array of exceptional art, but more importantly, for its inviting and interactive atmosphere that encourages connection between art lovers and artists. It’s because of this atmosphere and the ability to interact with artists and learn about their process that Celebration of Fine Art has become a true destination for art lovers from all backgrounds. In fact, over the course of its 31-year legacy, the show has welcomed more than 1.5 million visitors from around the world, many of whom have made the show an annual tradition. 
Celebration of Fine Art, Eye Candy, oil on canvas, 36 x 48", by Erin Berrett.
Celebration of Fine Art, Alixandra, acrylic and ink on canvas, 24 x 36", by Aiden Kringen.
“Over the course of our 30-year history, the Celebration of Fine Art has remained a place for artists and art lovers to connect in a meaningful way,” says Susan Morrow Potje, co-owner and show director. “Though this year we’ll have measures in place for distancing to protect the health and safety of our artists and guests, Celebration of Fine Art will continue to be a place where people from all walks of life can engage with artists and see their work come to life in front of their eyes. We’re looking forward to what 2021 has in store and can’t wait to showcase the talents of the amazing artists we have at the show this year.”
Celebration of Fine Art, Looking for Trouble, bronze, 32 x 30 x 12", by Bryce Pettit.
Throughout the 10 weeks starting January 16, guests can also catch artist demonstrations of their process; attend an Art Discovery Series, which is held each Friday from 4 p.m. to 5 p.m.; walk the outdoor sculpture garden, which features nearly 100 pieces of life-size and monumental sculpture; and enjoy lunch or wine in the cafe. In the outdoor sculpture garden, guests can also see artists hosting woodturning, welding, kiln firing and bronze pouring demonstrations weekly.
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Wilde Meyer Gallery
4142 N. Marshall Way, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 945-2323
2890 E. Skyline Drive, Suite 170
Tucson, AZ 85718, (520) 615-5222
info@wildemeyer.com
www.wildemeyer.com
Wilde Meyer Gallery represents artists who have a wide range of styles, media and subjects. “We don’t choose art of any certain style, and when selecting artists to represent, we have a good feel for what we think our clients and perspective clients will want,” says the gallery. 
Wilde Meyer Gallery, Everlasting Sky, marble plaster on wood panel, 32 x 80 x 3", by Stephanie Paige.
Wilde Meyer Gallery, Cat’s Garden, oil on canvas, 30 x 24", by Cathy Carey.
Wilde Meyer and its artists like to excite viewers with unique artwork that really speaks to people. In other words, not just a decoration, but work filled with creativity and craftsmanship. This can be seen in Cathy Carey’s piece Cat’s Garden, which depicts a colorful floral scene with a cat in the foreground. 
Wilde Meyer Gallery, Scenic Overlook, acrylic on canvas, 60 x 36", by Connie Townsend.
In addition, collectors will find work by Stephanie Paige and Connie Townsend, who both also enjoy expressing themselves with vivid color.
“The best advice to collectors is to be open minded,” says Samantha Matkovich with Wilde Meyer. “Don’t go looking for art with the ‘I know it when I see it’ attitude. Be open minded, explore, enjoy and learn while searching for pieces that speak to you.”
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Paul Scott Gallery
7103 E. Main Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 596-9533
info@paulscottgallery.com
www.paulscottgallery.com
Located on Main Street in the heart of the Scottsdale Arts District, Paul Scott Gallery is a well-known destination for art collectors. Visitors often comment on the diversity and quality of the artwork and the overall unique experience. 
Paul Scott Gallery, Swollen with the Sky, oil, 60 x 60", by France Jodoin.
The gallery strives to represent contemporary artists from around the world with something unique to say, but with the classical education to back it up. This technical education allows our artists to focus on creating works that actually show emotion, reflect great light and transcend surface level aesthetics. They are truly inspired to stand out with impactful paintings that are not readily confused with the works of other artists.
Furthermore, they keep growing and striving for something greater that leads to a great deal of diversity in their body of work. In the purest sense, Paul Scott Gallery artists want to bring beauty into the world in a powerful way.
Paul Scott Gallery, Evening at Café Aux Folies, oil, 19.63 x 30", by Samir Rakhmanov.
“It’s always fun to see beginning art enthusiasts and seasoned collectors alike visit the gallery. At some point there is usually a lightbulb moment when they realize they are in a real, non-commercial gallery,” says gallery owner Paul Eubanks. “One visitor recently said, ‘Your paintings just seem to go an inch deeper.’ I tell collectors to love a painting but make sure it is also a good painting. Buy what you love, buy what moves you in some way and buy what is reasonably unique at a good value.” 
Paul Scott Gallery, Lovely Day, oil, 43¼ x 39.38", by Jaroslav Leonets.
Paul Scott Gallery also manages the acclaimed www.galleryrussia.com, through which they are respected dealers of historical paintings from the Soviet period. “We encourage a casual but informative experience, so come visit us!”
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Arizona Fine Art Expo
26540 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85255
(480) 837-7163
www.arizonafineartexpo.com
Organizers of the Arizona Fine Art EXPO will transform the desert of North Scottsdale into one of Arizona’s leading venues for collecting fine art during the 10-week event, beginning Friday, January 15 through March 28, 2021.
The Arizona Fine Art EXPO features 124 patron-friendly artist studios in a 44,000-square-foot space where guests have a rare chance to meet the artists, see them in action, and learn about their journey, inspiration and techniques. Throughout the 10-week event, patrons can enjoy watching artisans work in a variety of mediums and styles. 
Arizona Fine Art EXPO, Low Sky Desert, oil on canvas, 20 x 30", by Caroline Kwas.
Arizona Fine Art EXPO, Save the Elephants, ancient juniper, 14 x 18 x 23", by William Daggett.
William Daggett will be participating with his wooden creations. Daggett’s creative process starts with hiking several miles through northern Arizona or southern Utah, looking at thousands of trees to find twisted limbs on dead juniper trees that he can give new life. He brings the pieces of wood home with him and begins carving, always looking for ways to show motion and fluidity in the pieces he creates.
Oil painter Caroline Kwas will be showcasing pieces like Low Sky Desert. “I have painted in oil since I first picked up a brush over 30 years ago,” says Kwas. “I’ve always loved bold splashes of color, and the strong lines I use stem from my love of geometry and math. Layers of oil paint yield rich colors that reflect my emotional response to nature.”
Art is for sale during the event and commissions are welcomed. Measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 will be in place to keep artists, staff and visitors safe during the show.
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Pamela Becker
Big Vision Arts, 251 Highway 179 Creekside Plaza, Suite A1
Sedona, AZ 86336
(928) 202-6320
pamela@bigvisionarts.com
www.bigvisionarts.com
A Rhode Island School of Design alumni and natural teacher, Pamela Becker loves to share the fascinating transcendence of the creative process with her students. Becker is at home in the red rocks and vast blue sky of Sedona, Arizona, where she creates her unique mixed media pieces.
Wooden boards are covered with copper, rich patinas and pigments, and this is where something otherworldly occurs. The unexpected patterns that settle in the patina imply direction for the painting. The artist enters into a conversation with the piece that may take months or years to complete. 
Pamela Becker, Mystery’s Consort, oil, silver/copper on panel, black walnut edge, 48 x 44"
Pamela Becker, Path of Broken Light, oil, copper on panel, black walnut edge, 46 x 80"
“Because I find human portraiture to be the most beautiful, evocative and challenging, I gravitate toward it to solve the patina’s mystery,” Becker explains. “Insightful, timeless portraits with iconic symbolism, I call ‘Essence Portraits,’ offer a portal into one’s bigger vision of self.”
Becker’s work is collected by interesting people around the globe. Collectors can set up appointments to view her art and enjoy a cup of tea. —
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