January 16-March 28, 2021 | Scottsdale, AZ

Engaging with the Arts

The 31st annual Celebration of Fine Art returns January 16 in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Over the last 30 years, Celebration of Fine Art has become a mainstay of the art scene in Scottsdale, Arizona. The event, taking place under its signature big white tents, will be a bit different for 2021, with safety measures and social distancing in place. However, the caliber of the artwork remains the same, and collectors will have the chance to meet the artists and watch as they create brand-new works of art on location.Kenneth Ferguson, Homeward Bound (Bumble Bee & Thistle), transparent and opaque watercolor, 8 x 8"

Taking place January 16 through March 28, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, visitors can stop by 100 artist studios. The artists—including Gedion Nyanhongo, Judith Dickinson and Kenneth Ferguson—work in an array of mediums and styles ranging from paintings and sculpture to photography, mixed media and jewelry. Also on the grounds is an outdoor sculpture garden with nearly 100 life-size and monumental pieces on display. In this outdoor space, visitors can also see artists woodturning, welding, kiln firing and bronze pouring during demonstrations each week.Gedion Nyanhongo, Dignity, opal stone, 36 x 14 x 8½"

Ferguson, a professional artist for more than 30 years, has received numerous accolades for his watercolor paintings that explore 18th- and 19th-century tribal and military history. His current body of work, From Pop West to Wee Beasties, continues to explore historical as well as nature-based themes, with a contemporary approach that is “putting a new twist on traditional subjects.” “I’ve worked with watercolor throughout my career and enjoy the challenge of pushing this versatile medium beyond its usual boundaries,” he says.Kenneth Ferguson, Distant Thunder (Lakota Woman, 19th Century), transparent and opaque watercolor, 20 x 20"

Born in Nyanga, Zimbabwe, Africa, Nyanhongo currently lives and creates his sculptures in Phoenix. He uses the generations-old techniques and in the tradition of the innovative Zimbabwean Shona Sculpture movement of 1950s. His pieces are 100 percent hand-carved in stone indigenous to and imported from Zimbabwe. His vision and technical skills have earned Nyanhongo international recognition as a Shona art sculptor of excellence.

Nyanhongo says, “With my sculptures, I offer collectors endearing elements of my Shona culture—the traditional values of the importance of community, positive and respectful human relationships and the sacredness of life.”Gedion Nyanhongo, Thinking About the Future, fruit serpentine stone, 21 x 13 x 6½"

Judith Dickinson, Unshakable, oil on linen, 36 x 24"

In addition to strolling the artists’ studios, guests can attend the Art Discovery Series each Friday, from 4 to 5 p.m., where they will learn about inspirations, techniques and more from participants. Visit the Celebration of Fine Art website for complete details on this year’s show, to read artist biographies and check for any updates on the event. —

Celebration of Fine Art
When: January 16-March 28, 2021, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., daily
Where: 18400 N. Hayden Road, Scottsdale, AZ 85255
Information: www.celebrateart.com