EDITOR’S NOTE

Art, Beauty and Community

life-enhancing experiences, educational opportunities and increased community vitality. When it comes to the arts, the Trust has relied on the expertise of senior program officer Ellen Solowey for 15 years. Thought of as a ‘Renaissance woman’ by many of her colleagues, Solowey has made an indelible mark on Maricopa County’s arts and culture community. She recently announced her retirement. “Ellen’s vast and varied international experience combined with her intellectual firepower has always provided a unique perspective on the arts and their impact on individuals and society. She approached grantmaking with vigor and a genuine understanding of both artists and institutions,” said Mary Jane Rynd, president & CEO What fun it was to interview Richard of Piper Trust. Thomas for 10 Questions this month. “The Waltons” was a staple of my youth, and hearing his voice made those fond memories return. Thomas will come to ASU Gammage in December to star in “To Kill a Mockingbird.” It’s just one of many productions to put on your calendar — and part of why we are so excited to bring you our Solowey was instrumental in designing the annual Arts & Culture issue. Trust’s intensive two-year capacity-building

For the cover, our team program for arts organizations, known as caught sunrise in Papago Park, the ATLAS program. Most recently, she capturing the drama and power of was the architect of the Trust’s new Arts & Southwest Shakespeare Company. Culture Forward program, from inception to We’re big fans of their bold, original implementation. You can read about this effort to support productions and quest to serve every child arts organizations while broadening access to arts and in our state. Inclusive, vibrant and full of engagement on page 61. personality, the cover conveys the theme Although Solowey may be retiring from Piper Trust, of this issue, which is a celebration of art, she has a deep appreciation and respect for the nonprofit beauty and community. community and plans to be involved in new ways. “The

Frontdoors has long been a place Trust’s board and staff salute Ellen’s dedication and the to champion the arts, but this issue is enduring mark she has made on this community,” Rynd said. something special. We collaborated It is a privilege to celebrate Solowey on such a with Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust, a significant milestone — and fitting to anticipate the artistic private foundation that honors Virginia memories ahead. Galvin Piper’s philanthropic commitment to changing lives and strengthening community. Reflecting Virginia Piper’s own charitable legacy, the Trust awards grants to arts and culture organizations to create “Ellen’s vast and varied international experience combined with her intellectual firepower has always provided a unique perspective on the arts and their impact on individuals and society.” Piper Trust senior program officer Ellen Solowey Karen

KAREN WERNER

EDITOR IN CHIEF