Renowned artists from around the globe will make the beautiful Sonoran Desert in north Scottsdale home for 10 weeks as they create original pieces of fine art in what has come to be known as one of Arizona’s best venues for collecting fine art. The Arizona Fine Art Expo begins Jan. 22 and runs through April 3 from 10 am to 6 pm daily. Festive white tents at 26540 N Scottsdale Road, on the southwest corner of Scottsdale and Jomax roads, will become working art studios.
The event features 120 patron-friendly working studios within a 44,000-square-foot space, where guests have a rare chance to meet the artists, see them in action and learn about their inspiration and techniques. Throughout the 10 weeks, artisans will sketch passionately in pencil, charcoal and pastels; sculpt and fire clay; drill, chisel and carve stone; paint in all media; delicately scrape and etch on scratchboard; stain and etch gourds; design lost wax casting; solder and weld jewelry; assemble mosaics and more. Art is for sale and commissions are welcome.
Patrons can stroll through one of the Valley’s largest sculpture gardens, including a koi pond with waterfall surrounded by natural desert. Other highlights include a café, wine tastings, garden parties, book signings and live music every weekend.
In addition, the nonprofit American Healing Arts Foundation will provide free art classes for veterans during the show.
For 34 years, Thunderbird Artists has united gifted artists with patrons across the world by producing award-winning fine art and fine wine festivals. A family-run business, Thunderbird Artists’ success and the encouragement of artists prompted the birth of the Arizona Fine Art Expo 12 years ago.
Season passes cost $10; admission for seniors and military is $8; and children under 12 are free. Parking is free. For more details about participating artists or events during the show, call 480-837-7163 or visit ArizonaFineArtEXPO.com.
