Desert Mountain
ECRWSS Local Postal Customer
Carefree
Cave Creek PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID PHOENIX, AZ PERMIT NO. 3418
f ebruary 2018
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Judy Zimet, Esq., REALTOR® Scottsdale • Carefree • Cave Creek
480-440-3015 Judy@JudyZimet.com
Get a free home value report at JudyZimet.com
NOTABLE JANUARY SALES Sold in 14 days
Sincuidados
30600 N. Pima Rd. 58
$600,000
Sold in 25 days
Terravita
32968 N. 70th St.
$464,000
Sold in 39 days
Carefree
37601 N. Dream St.
$480,000
Sold in 41 days
Legend Trail
34644 N. 99th Wy.
$715,000
Sold in 45 days
Desert Springs
8601 E. Arroyo Seco
$850,000
Sold in 78 days
Carefree
9301 E. Venus Dr.
$653,000
AGENT + ATTORNEY = A UNIQUE PROFESSIONAL SKILL SET 2
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Merit Crossing 28009 N 90th Way Scottsdale AZ 85262
6BD | 9BA | 15,543SF Offered at $5,995,000
Elegant European style estate nestled on 3.5 acres of complete privacy in the hidden community of Merit Crossing. Enter your estate thru double gates, wooden bridges and a lovely paver drive. Completely enclosed courtyard with a magnificent fountain, bistro lighting and an abundance of french doors that lead you into this amazing home. The majestic Pinnacle Peak greets you as you open your front door. This home offers the finest details in every area. Luxury master suite with adjoining exercise room and steam room. Four secondary en-suites, theater seating for 10, Gourmet kitchen with the best of everything including a pizza oven, side by side sub zeros, Wolfe dual fuel cooktop, double Asko dishwashers, and ice-maker. Three room wine cellar with its own kitchen and dumb waiter, 2500 square ft game room with a full bar. Canterra fireplace, 26 foot ceilings with removable wooden beams and 4 sets of french doors leading to courtyard. Formal living rooms stares at Pinnacle Peak Mountain, formal dining room with brick ceiling looks onto courtyard. stunning private study with citywide views and a fully functional guest home with all the details of the main home. Exquisite stonework and 5 fireplaces add warmth and romance throughout. Outdoor living at its finest- pocket wall of glass leads you to your own 18 hole putting green designed by local PGA pro, expansive patios, BBQ’s, pool, spa, waterfalls, fireplace, firewoks, fire pit, cabana and balcony. A car lovers dream completes this amazing estate estate with space for 12 vehicles along with custom cabinets, storage room, workshop, a/c and a stain concrete floor. If your are looking for privacy yet close to everything this is the estate for you. 15 minutes gets you to Scottsdale Airpark and less gets you to the 101. This is truly a amazing home.
Silverleaf at DC Ranch
10851 E Wingspan Way Scottsdale 85255
7BD | 10BA | 12,500SF Offered at $10,500,000
Nestled in the upper canyon of Silverleaf, this one of a kind custom home was designed and built for the lifestyle you deserve! From the moment you pull up to the privately gated motor court you will be totally impressed! The interior is spacious, comfortable, casual, yet elegant. The floor plan was designed for entertaining. The main house features a main level master suite plus 4 additional en-suite bedrooms, private office, exercise room, and home theatre. The automated pocket doors brings in the outdoor living space. Enjoy the lazy river, pool cabana, and swim up bar while watching amazing sunsets, city lights, and views directly down the runway of the Scottsdale Airpark. Built by John Schultz Development and custom crafted by Kristin Hazen Design. What memories will you make?
CALL US TODAY TO SELL TOMORROW 480.999.1821
BVOLUXURYGROUP.COM
Senior Partner Andrew f ebruary 2018 imagesarBloom iz ona .c om
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ARIZONA MUSICFEST CREATING A LEGACY ONE NOTE AT A TIME Writer Amanda Christmann
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BIRDS OF A FEATHER Writer Amanda Christmann
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MICHAEL P. JOHNSON TRUE TO THE TRADE Writer Amanda Larson
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COMMUNITY EVENTS
SAM PRATT COMPOSITION ON CANVAS
Writer Amanda Christmann
Writer Shannon Severson
Cover photo by Bill Timmerman
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GRUYERE STACKED POTATOES Writer Kyndra Kelly
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S... E OM ADY! hedule e H E se Sc Hous W R E 2 N E-IN n Hou /Open e V m MO Sun Op dale.co
at, cotts S , Fri millS nd Wi
20 Acres. 8 Homes. 1 Designer. An enclave of homes designed by “Master of the Southwest” Bob Bacon, with interiors by Gail Archer.
Car Collector Garage Options – 1600 & 3600 sq ft
Pima Rd
ek Rd
Cre Cave
Windmill is a custom neighborhood of western ranch homes ranging from 3,500 to 5,200 square feet. Although every home bears a family resemblance, each features a unique floor plan and elevation, and is carefully located in relation to its neighbors. The uniqueness of the neighborhood has already attracted buyers who appreciate homes reflecting Bacon’s signature high levels of architectural artistry, quality, and careful attention to every detail. For a private tour, call Davis Driver at 480-788-0401.
Stagecoach Pass Windmill Rd
8555 E Tecolote Cir. Scottsdale, AZ 85266
Sales by RE/MAX Platinum Living
“Room to Dream” www.WindmillScottsdale.com
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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence
MANAGING EDITOR Amanda Christmann
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Meaghan Mitchell
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lynette Carrington Amanda Christmann Sue Kern-Fleischer Gregory Granillo Kyndra Kelly Kenneth LaFave Lara Piu Shannon Severson
PHOTOGRAPHERS Scott Baxter Bryan Black Kyndra Kelly Loralei Lazurek Brandon Tigrett
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As we turn the calendar to February, it feels surreal that our feet are now firmly planted in 2018. The brief chill carried in on Arizona winter winds has nearly ended its annual stay, and trails and golf courses are enticing us outdoors. It’s a beautiful time of year to be an Arizonan! February is one of my favorite months because of Valentine’s Day. Every year, I think not only about how lucky I am to have my husband Nigel and my children in my life, but also how fortunate I am to be surrounded by family, friends and a community that I love.
Tatum Williams 480-280-9490 tatum@imagesaz.com
Images Arizona is now in our nineteenth year. We have spent nearly two decades getting to know the families and people who work hard in this community to make it a great place to live. Some businesses and people have come and gone, while others have become old friends, and many of the talented writers and photographers who have come along through the years have formed a family of sorts who still make me smile and amaze me with their contributions.
Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com
I’ve shared laughter and tears, and every emotion in between, with people who’ve left enduring imprints on my heart, all because readers like you have embraced and supported our mission to bring the community together through positive stories and beautiful photos of the places and faces that make us who we are. I can think of no better way to spend these years of my life than pursuing and fulfilling this purpose.
ADVERTISING SALES
Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month prior to publication. Images Arizona is published by ImagesAZ Inc. Copyright © 2018 by ImagesAZ, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction, in whole or part, without permission is prohibited. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited material.
Local First A R I Z O NA
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Happy February, and happy Valentine’s Day, to you and yours! May your heart be filled with as much joy as mine for the life we are all creating together in this place we all call home. Cheers! Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
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Writer Amanda Christmann
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Robert Moody
Musicfest, above all, recognizes the art behind the music and makes it approachable and relatable to people of all ages.
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If music is a language, Arizona Musicfest is one of Arizona’s most eloquent storytellers. In a pragmatic world where art is often considered optional, Arizona Musicfest is, without a doubt, one of the Valley’s greatest assets. This dynamic North Scottsdale-based non-profit organization transcends humanity and brings audiences to tears through the passion and beauty of music. Arizona Musicfest has been bringing great musical artists from every genre to Valley venues for 27 years, and in doing so, it has helped to develop budding talent and love for music in an entire generation of area young people. For Valley residents who may view Musicfest as a grassroots, hometown effort, it’s easy to forget just what an honor it is to have this amazing resource in our own back yard. Musicfest, above all, recognizes the art behind the music and makes it approachable and relatable to everyone. The face of Arizona Musicfest is Artistic Director Robert Moody, whose extensive curriculum vitae also includes his work as music director for the Winston-Salem
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The Stan Kenton Legacy Orchestra
Doc Severinsen’s Trumpet Kings
Columbus Jazz Orchestra
Michael Feinstein
Olga Kern with the Festival Orchestra
Lee Ann Womack
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Symphony, Memphis Symphony and Maine’s Portland Symphony Orchestra. Moody has accompanied some of the world’s most recognized artists: Yo Yo Ma, Itzhak Perlman, Renee Fleming, Denyce Graves, Andre Watts, Nadja Salerno-Sonnenberg, Midori, Time for Three and Chris Thile, to name a few. The only aspect of his work that rivals the beautiful music he urges forth are his reviews. Whether he is in Seattle or Slovenia, critics and audiences love him—and for good reason. Moody has the ability to interpret some of the world’s most beloved works in subtle and bold ways, compelling audiences to not only listen, but to feel. And then there are the orchestra and chorus. Musicians from America's finest orchestras, including Chicago Symphony, New York Philharmonic, Philadelphia Orchestra, Boston Symphony Orchestra, San Francisco Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, Houston Symphony, the Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and many others perform four symphonic programs each year for sold-out crowds as part of Arizona Musicfest’s Festival Orchestra Week Feb. 20 through 25. The 100-voice Arizona Musicfest Chorus, under the direction of Dr. Sharon A. Hansen, is one of the region’s top choral ensembles. The chorus has collaborated with the Festival Orchestra for a not-to-be-missed choral/orchestral repertoire during Festival Orchestra Week.
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The Hillbenders
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Other performances presented during Arizona Musicfest’s Winterfest schedule range from jazz to contemporary country and everything in between, with recognizable names like Lee Ann Womack, Michael Feinstein, Doc Severinsen and more. These non-liturgical concerts are performed at relatively intimate venues, mostly churches, which provide an entirely different experience than stadiums or arenas.
Musicfest Music Makers, introducing third and fourth graders to string, wind and brass instruments; Musicfest Jazz, exposing elementary students to jazz repertoire, history and performance practice; and the Arizona Musicfest Orchestra Outreach Program, providing master classes for promising high school music students. Arizona Musicfest also provides instruments for low or no cost for those who are unable to afford them.
Best of all, money raised during these tremendous concerts goes into music education and scholarships for area youth, helping to teach multicultural, classic music in the classroom and provide performance, competition and educational opportunities for young musicians.
Beyond Musicfest’s presence in schools, young musicians' competitions and the Arizona Musicfest scholarship program have cultivated an impressive roster of young local talent who are making waves in classical and contemporary music scenes worldwide.
Arizona Musicfest exposes about 6,000 children each year to classical music through programs like Musicfest Minutes, a daily curriculum-based music lesson; Musicfest Strummers, developing love for music creation through no-cost baritone, ukulele and guitar lessons;
It’s all part of the unrivaled dedication of the Arizona Musicfest board, staff and musicians to share the creativity, passion and beauty of music.
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azmusicfest.org
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COMMUNITY arts // announcements // culture Writer Amanda Christmann
FEB. 2–23
LATE NITE CATECHISM Spontaneous, clever and outrageously fun, the record-
JAN. 18–FEB. 28 BOB BOZE BELL SOLO EXHIBITION
“The Illustrated Life and Times of Wild Bill Hickok” event and art show, featuring 17 pieces of original art from the book by Bob Boze Bell, celebrates the publication of Bell’s newest book of the same title. Reception Jan. 18, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. CattleTrack Arts & Preservation Center, 6105 N. Cattle Track Rd., Scottsdale. See website for times. cattletrack.org
JAN. 11–FEB. 11 JOHN RANDALL NELSON EXHIBITION
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breaking “Late Nite Catechism” has been running every season at Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts since 2000. Come see what the hullabaloo is all about! Runs every Friday through Feb. 23. $31–$39. 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 8 p.m. 480-4998587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
FEB. 2
LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO Come enjoy the fusion of intricate rhythms and harmonies of South African musical traditions with the sounds and sentiments of gospel. The all-male vocal group rocketed to fame in the mid-1980s when Paul Simon incorporated
Contemporary artists John
its rich harmonies into his
Randall Nelson uses symbolism
groundbreaking album, Graceland.
and tropes to portray esoteric
$39–$69; see website for
narratives. Free. Gebert
free and discounted tickets.
Contemporary, 7160 Main St.,
Scottsdale Center for the
Scottsdale. 10 a.m–5 p.m. daily;
Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second
closed Sundays. 480-429-0711;
St., Scottsdale. 8 p.m. 480-499-
gebertartaz.com
8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
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Music FEB. 2
THE FAB FAUX Arizona Musicfest presents The Fab Faux. Dispel your previous notions of a Beatles tribute act! $24–$67. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Scottsdale. 7:30 p.m. 480422-8449; azmusicfest.org f ebruary 2018 imagesar iz ona .c om Photo Courtesy AZ Musicfest
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FEB. 2–4
CANDIDE AT ARIZONA OPERA Arizona Opera celebrates composer Leonard Bernstein’s centennial with the company premiere of “Candide.” Fastpaced, funny and philosophical, this Tony award-winning Broadway smash is now considered an operatic masterpiece. See website for show times and ticket prices. Symphony Hall, 75 N. 2nd St., Phoenix. 602-266-7464; azopera.org
FEB. 3
METROPOLITAN KLEZMER Metropolitan Klezmer combines the best of downtown, classical and world music scenes to create interpretations and compositions around an eclectic Yiddish repertoire. $29–$49; see website for free and discounted tickets. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 8 p.m. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
FEB. 3
ARIZONA SAGE ART MARKET Come to this indoor show, mingle with 35 juried fine artists, enjoy a treat from the wonderful on-site bakery and have a real hometown shopping experience. Most works available for under $300. Free. Holland Community Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. azfcf.org
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FEB. 6
PINK MARTINI Arizona Musicfest’s Winterfest performance series delights audiences with yet another Valley favorite! Featuring a dozen musicians, including lead singer China Forbes, Pink Martini has distinguished itself for its genre-defying, multilingual repertoire that seduces and swings. $34–$82. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Scottsdale. 7:30 p.m. 480-422-8449; arizonamusicfest.org Photo Courtesy AZ Musicfest
The Citadel 8700 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd, Scottsdale AZ 85255 NW Corner, Pinnacle Peak & Pima Rds
Arizona Premier Real Estate / Bess Jones Interiors / Boulder Creek Pools / Casey Properties Chris McDaniel Chiropractic / Counsel Mortgage Group / Davidson Law / Finance of America / Goochie Goo Healthy Smiles Dentistry / Helmholdt Psychologist & Counseling / John A. Liebert, MD, PC Manzano Builders / Polished at 8700 Salon / Preston’s Steakhouse / Shield Regal Realty / Salon of Scottsdale Turn key restaurant space available (1,750 square feet) – Contact: Tim Gunnink 480.397.1941
Polished at 8700 Salon Polished! Relax in the spa-like surroundings of the Citadel Courtyard while the Polished professionals perfect your hair and nails…all done your way to Polished perfection. Come enjoy the Polished experience! Offering the finest in: Cuts • Blowouts • Color Extensions • Manicures • Pedicures • Waxing 8700 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd
5255
Preston’s Steakhouse Valentine’s Day at Preston’s Steakhouse Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day with an unparalleled dining experience at Preston’s. Choose from delicious options on Chef’s exclusive 3-course Valentine’s Day menu for only $79.99 per guest. Seating is limited. Reserve your table today.
Polished Hair and Nail Salon 8700 E Pinnacle Peak Road / Suite 102 Scottsdale, AZ 85255
480.948.8055
Prestonsscottsdale.com 480.629.5087
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FEB. 3–24
LATE NITE CATECHISM III: ’TIL DEATH DO US PART Arizona’s favorite ruler-wielding nun is back in the habit in this popular sequel to the Late Nite Catechism comedies. Performed Saturdays through Feb. 24. $31–$39. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts Stage 2, 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 8 p.m. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
FEB. 8
MICHAEL FEINSTEIN One of the most important musical figures of our time, Michael Feinstein, backed by a 17-piece big band, brings his mastery of the Great American Songbook to the Musicfest stage. Don’t miss this unforgettable evening! $34–$82. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Scottsdale. 7:30 p.m. 480422-8449; arizonamusicfest.org
FEB. 9
WITHIN THE CITY ARTISTS RECEPTION Brad Aldridge, Frances Livingston and Joseph Lorusso, all award-winning artists, showcase what the city means to them. A must-see for anyone who has longed for urban life. Exhibit open through Feb. 28. Free. 7040 E. Main St., Scottsdale. 6–8 p.m. 480-9418500; bonnerdavid.com
Birds FEB. 10
SOUTHWEST LANDSCAPING FOR BIRDS Carefree Desert Gardens welcomes back gardening expert Carol Stuttard as she discusses some of the best plants to include in your landscaping to attract feathered friends. $5 donation. 33 Easy St. and Nonchalant Avenue, Carefree. 9:30 a.m. RSVP 480-488-3686
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Photo by Lisa Langell
FEB. 9–11
ART AT THE OLD ADOBE MISSION Scottsdale Artists League artists will showcase their talents at the Old Adobe Mission. A portion of the proceeds will go to restoration the oldest church in Scottsdale. Free. 3817 N. Brown Ave., Scottsdale. Reception Feb. 9, 5–7 p.m. 10 a.m.–7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday. 602-432-2811
FEB. 10
PARADA DEL SOL AND TRAILS END FESTIVAL Join the parade on Scottsdale Road south of Camelback as it weaves through downtown. The celebration continues at noon with live music, performances, refreshments, activity booths and multicultural entertainment. Free. 10 a.m. paradadelsolparade-trailsend.com
FEB. 10, 11 CORKS AND CACTUS
Sample, sip and savor your way through the splendor of the Desert Botanical Garden at Corks & Cactus, where boutique wines and desert beauty blend into a delightful event. Sample from 40 different wines each day, enjoy talented musical entertainment and purchase delicious fare. All wine purchased will directly benefit the garden. $35-$40. Desert Botanical Garden, 1201 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix. 1–4:30 p.m. 480-481-8188; dbg.org f ebruary 2018
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Open House
FEB. 11
OPEN HOUSE AND BARBECUE AT WINDMILL From 1-4 p.m. come enjoy sensational barbeque prepared on a gorgeous, state-of-theart West of Memphis BBQ grill while seeing two of North Scottsdale’s newest and most unique homes, “Acacia” and “Joshua Tree,” in the Windmill subdivision in North Scottsdale. These Modern American Ranch homes were designed by renowned “Master of the Southwest” architectural designer, Bob Bacon.
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Windmill is a private, gated community of eight home sites, each approximately 2.0 acres, set on 20 acres in the high Sonoran Desert foothills. The two new homes join two previously built homes, Bacon’s award winning, geomorphic Bowman House in the southeast corner of Windmill, and Palo Verde in the northwest corner. Four more Bacon-designed homes remain to be built, three of which are for sale. The home on the last site will be occupied by Windmill’s developer. A special opportunity exists in Windmill to build an up to 3,600-square-foot additional building, also designed by Bacon to make sure it blends in with the rest of the neighborhood, on each home site for use by car collectors, artists, woodworkers, etc. Everything from land planning to architectural designs to interior details is the work and vision of Bacon. These homes are genuine American products echoing the character and quality found throughout the West before the notion of fashion diminished pure, practical architecture. Sales by The Davis Driver Group, RE/ MAX Platinum Living. Enter at corner of Tecolote Circle and Windmill Road, one block south of Stagecoach Pass, just west of Pima Road in North Scottsdale. RSVP to brandi@rmxplatinumliving.com. windmillscottsdale.com Event sponsored by The Davis Driver Group, First Arizona Title Company, Summit Funding, West of Memphis BBQ and Rent-A-Man Homeowner Services.
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Music
FEB. 16
LEE ANN WOMACK Country star and Grammy Award winner Lee Ann Womack makes her debut at Arizona Musicfest. From her charttopping global hit, “I Hope You Dance”—which sold over 6 million albums—to her recent album, “The Way I’m Livin’,” and other beloved and awardwinning favorites, Womack has become known for her
FEB. 10, 11 28TH ANNUAL WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP HOOP DANCE CONTEST
Heard Museum hosts the top American Indian and Canadian First Nations hoop dancers, who will compete for the prestigious world champion title and cash prizes. $7.50–$18. 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 602-252-8840; heard.org
FEB. 10, 11 INDIAN FESTIVAL
Arizona tribes will share their cultures, including food, song, dance and crafts, in Indian Villages Scottsdale Civic Center Mall. Free. 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale. 10 a.m.–6 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.–4 p.m. Sunday. arizonaindiantourism.org
FEB. 12
ASU VOCAL EXPLORATIONS The ASU School of Music Lyric Opera Theatre, Voice and Collaborative Piano programs showcase the amazing talent of their rising young artists during this afternoon of musical theater, opera and art-song collaborations. $10. 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 7:30 p.m. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
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deeply personal songwriting and remarkable voice. $34–$76. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Scottsdale. 7:30 p.m. 480-422-8449; arizonamusicfest.org Photo Courtesy AZ Musicfest
FEB. 12
AMERICAN BRASS QUINTET Musical Instrument Museum hosts one of the most internationally recognized premier chamber music ensembles of our time, American Brass Quintet. The group’s performance history spans the globe, including nearly 60 recordings and the premieres of 150 works. $52.50–$62.50. 4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix. 7:30 p.m. 480478-6000; mim.org
FEB. 13
BE MY VALENTINE CHILDREN’S TEA PARTY Children ages 3 to 6 are invited to a tea party experience with the Valentine Queen at Desert Foothills Library. Try tasty treats, learn about manners and do a craft. Weather permitting; program will take place on the outside veranda. Free. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Rd., Cave Creek. 10:30–11:30 a.m. Please call to register. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
FEB. 14
OBLITERATED ITINERARIES: THE ARCHAEOLOGY OF ROADS, PATHS AND TRAILS The Desert Foothills Chapter of the Arizona Archaeological Society has a timeless alternative to Valentine’s Day hearts and flowers! Bring your sweetheart to see Dr. James Snead’s presentation about how ancient paths and roadways allow archaeologists to “move through time,” often in the literal footsteps of those who went before. Free. Maitland Hall, The Good Shepard of the Hills Episcopal Church, 6502 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek. 7 p.m. azarchsoc.wildapricot.org
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FEB. 15
FEB. 21
Photography wouldn't be what
THE LUCK OF THE IRISH WITH MARSHALL TRIMBLE
it is today if it weren’t for the
Arizona’s Official Historian
courage and passion of these
Marshall Trimble gives a
astounding photographers who
humorous overview of the
share one thing—their gender.
lucky (and not so fortunate)
Join the discussion of the work
Irishmen who traveled west.
of three indelible 20th century
This program focuses on a
American female icons of
partnership of four Irishmen:
photography: Margaret Bourke-
John Mackay, James Flood,
White, Dorothea Lange and
James Fair and William O’Brien.
Annie Leibovitz. Free. Desert
Free with museum admission.
Foothills Library, 38443 N.
Scottsdale Museum of the
Schoolhouse Rd., Cave Creek.
West, 3830 N. Marshall Way,
10–11 a.m. Please call to
Scottsdale. 1–2 p.m. 480-686-
register. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
9539; scottsdalemuseumwest.org
LADIES OF THE LENS
History Photo by Bryan Black
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OUTDOOR LIVING AT ITS FINEST HIGH-END, LOW-VOLTAGE, OUTDOOR LIGHTING
FEB. 15
ODC ON STAGE San Francisco-based ODC/Dance brings its groundbreaking technique and approach to movement to the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Now in its 47th season, ODC/Dance’s 10 dancers perform for more than 50,000 people a year and, all told, have played for more than one million people in 32 states and 11 countries. $29– $59; free for eligible veterans, students and teachers; patrons
www.lettherebelightllc.com (480) 575-3204 info@lettherebelightllc.com Licensed | Bonded | Insured
29 and under, 50 percent off. 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 7:30 p.m. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
FEB. 17
CREATESPACE 4 KIDS Kids ages 6 to 11 can get creative with geckobots, snap circuitry, K'Nex, marble mazes and more. Free. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Rd., Cave Creek. 1:30–3 p.m. Please call to register. 480-488-2286; dfla.org
FEB. 23
NATIVE AMERICAN FLUTE THROUGH THE AGES Come along for this magical musical journey! Christ the Lord Lutheran Church hosts the Desert Foothills Native American Flute Circle. $20. 9205 E. Cave Creek Rd., Carefree. 4 p.m. 480-488-2081; ctlcarefree.org f ebruary 2018
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FEB. 28
FEBRUARY COLLABORATION DINNER Cartwright’s Chef Collaboration Series this month is “An Homage to Arizona,” featuring Judd Cummings, chef and owner of Fire and Foraged, Stock and Cellar and Kalm Family Farms. Join Chef Judd and Chef Brett for a five-course dinner featuring ingredients unique to Arizona. See website for cost and reservation information. 6710 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek. 6:30 p.m. 480-488-8031;
Delish
cartwrightsmoderncuisine.com
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FEB. 24
MEGAN HILTY AND SETH RUDETSKY CABARET AND MORE Acclaimed actress and singer Megan Hilty and pianist/ commentator Seth Rudestsky have an exciting, entertaining cabaret-style evening in store as part of the Mark Cortale Presents Broadway @ Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts series. $59–$89. 7380 E. Second St., Scottsdale. 8 p.m. 480-499-8587; scottsdaleperformingarts.org
FEB. 24
FAR OUT CAR SHOW Join car enthusiasts from all over Arizona for a fun-filled day benefiting the animals of Foothills Animal Rescue. Cars new and old will be showcased in front of the Brynne Smith Memorial Campus Adoption Center. If you are interested in showing your car at the event, please register online. $55 per registered car includes t-shirt and swag bag; free to attend. 10197 E. Bell Rd., Scottsdale. 8 a.m.–noon. foothillsanimal.org
FEB. 24
DEARLY BELOVED: A JOURNEY OF LOVE AND MARRIAGE ProMusica Arizona’s February concert, “Dearly Beloved: A Lifetime of Love,” follows the evolution of a couple from courtship through their lifetime together with all its ups-and-downs set to music, the language of love. $12–20; Children under 15 free with paid adult ticket. Cross of Christ Lutheran Church, 39808 N. Gavilan Peak Pkwy., Anthem. 7:30 p.m. 623-326-5172; pmaz.org f ebruary 2018
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FEB. 24
THIRD ANNUAL PHX VEGAN FOOD FESTIVAL The PHX Vegan Food Festival returns to the Valley, this year to the larger venue of Margaret T. Hance Park in downtown Phoenix. It will feature nearly 100 restaurants, food trucks and product vendors, as well as beverage stations and entertainment. $25 in advance; $30 at the door; VIP admission $50; kids 12 and under are free. 1202 N. 3rd St., Phoenix. 11 a.m.–5 p.m. phxveganfest.com
MIM WINTER/SPRING CONCERT SERIES Tickets are on sale now for Musical Instrument Museum’s exciting 2018 winter and spring concert series, which includes more than 50 concerts running through April, spanning across generations and genres. Featured artists include Lyle Lovett, Al Jardine and Booker T. Jones, among other notable talent. Check website for schedule and ticket information. Additional artists will be added throughout the season. mim.org
WEDNESDAYS AT TERRAVITA FARM ‘N’ ART MARKET Farm fresh eats and delectable designs are the perfect pairing each Wednesday through May at Magic Bird's new Farm ‘n’ Art shows that combine the farmers’ market concept with a pinch of artisan spice. Free. 34402 N. Scottsdale Rd., Scottsdale. 3–7 p.m. magicbirdfestivals.com
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MARCH 2–4
7TH ANNUAL TOUR D’ARTISTES Fifteen studios and galleries and over 80 artists will be featured at the 7th Annual Tour d’ Artistes studio tour and sale in Fountain Hills. Interact with local artists, observe demonstrations and see some of the area’s most beautiful works of painting, glass, metal sculpture, digital photography, jewelry, printmaking, mixed media and fiber art. Tour maps may be obtained from participating galleries and artists. Free. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. daily. fountainhillsartleague.com Artwork Courtesy Fountian Hill Arts League
Brand new Memory Care community opening soon!
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LMTN AZ Republic February 2018
Award winning Arizona artist, Lucy Dickens, has created a unique, story-like approach to landscape painting. Dickens discovers the landscape, then transforms it into a narrative pictorial on canvas.
Gallery and Studio, in Carefree, open by appointment and for art events, schedule your visit now!
www.LucyDickensFineArt.com (602) 653-7002
Whileaway, Oil 36x48 $7400
“Her realism is not about reproducing a scene, but rather capturing magical moments. In this regard, she has a gift. She is able to reveal spirit and enable viewers to be parts of the experiences as she makes a special connection with her subject matter and honors its essence - and people respond.” Donna Kubiln
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ATTENTION ARTISTS AND MUSICIANS! The Town of Carefree welcomes artists and musicians to register for the March sight and sound experience in scenic Carefree Desert Gardens. Whether you’re a master at oil or watercolor, a sculptor or bring a different talent, you are encouraged to register by March 1. During the event, visitors can stroll Carefree Desert Gardens and meet local artists as they demonstrate their work. The experience will promote local artisans and musicians while providing a unique, personal experience. All talent will be vetted by the Town of Carefree, and there is no charge to participate. A limited amount of times slots are available
SWEET SOUNDS OF SUNDAYS WITH SUNDAY A’FAIR Sunday A’Fair features free outdoor concerts by the Valley’s top musicians, an arts-and-crafts market and fun activities for children and families. Free concerts run from noon to 4 p.m. most Sundays through April 8 on the Civic Center Mall, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale. scottsdaleperformingarts.org
SYMMETRY IN STONE: THE JEWELRY OF RICHARD I. CHAVEZ The Heard Museum presents work of Richard Chavez, one of the Southwest’s leading jewelers. For the first time in his more than 40-year career, his jewelry will be featured in a retrospective exhibition. On display through September. Free with museum admission. 2301 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. Mon. through Sat. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 602-252-8840; heard.org
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so don’t wait! 480-488-3686; visitcarefree.com Photo by Thomas Baker
f ebruary 2018
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SOROPTIMIST CELEBRATES GIVING Members of Soroptimist International of Saguaro Foothills are celebrating a banner year for new memberships and for supporting women and
Art
THE ART OF JOE BEELER: A WESTERN ORIGINAL Scottsdale Museum of the West pays tribute to Joe Beeler, a founding member of the Cowboy Artists of America, one of the most influential artists’ groups in the nation’s history. Beeler helped
children in the Cave Creek
define Western art, not only for
and Carefree communities.
his generation but also for future generations. Runs through Oct. 28.
In September, the club
See website for admission pricing
participated for the first
and hours. 3830 N. Marshall
time in the Anthem Outlet
Way, Scottsdale. 480-686-9539;
“Shopping Extravaganza”
scottsdalemuseumwest.org
fundraiser, and in December, Soroptimist elves stuffed
Joe Beeler, When Thunder Roars,
much-needed personal
bronze; On loan from The Eddie Basha
products into holiday bags
Collection. Photo by Cesar Laure.
for families at the Foothills Food Bank and filled wish lists for two special food bank Adopt-a-Families. Soroptimist would like to thank all those who participated in fundraising events in 2017. Your participation helped support Live Your Dream and Dream It, Be It awards, along with community service projects benefitting women and children. May you and yours have a happy 2018!
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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography by Brandon Tigertt
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If you’ve been looking for something that stands out among the long list of Valley culinary choices, you may just find your newest favorite in The Bourbon Cellar. Stepping through the doors of The Bourbon Cellar, located in an unassuming corner of The Summit shopping center at 32409 N. Scottsdale Rd. in Scottsdale, diners are transported to the upscale galley-style neighborhood taverns of Chicago or Boston—only with a decidedly Arizona air. Warmly masculine with deep tones, brick walls and a honey-gold oak bar that boasts, among other spirits, over 250 labels of the finest American whiskeys, the ambiance is welcoming. Yet it’s the farm-to-table selections that keep locals and visitors coming back for more. Diners expecting lesser-quality pre-packaged and frozen chain restaurant food are pleasantly surprised by the vivid flavors and textures of a locavore approach of this formalas-you’d-like eatery. Smith does not have vendors; he prefers to source his ingredients, which are never frozen or pre-packaged, directly. It’s a strategy that may cost more, but he is not willing to settle for less than the best. “There is no fresher product than that,” he explained. From lump blue crab and artichoke dip with chunks of mouthwatering crab fresh from the Atlantic coast, to hand-selected, in-house-ground fillet burgers with lusciously juicy natural flavors, to its revered US primecut, dry-aged, bone-in cowboy ribeyes and more, The Bourbon Cellar has something special to savor, no matter your predilection.
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Seafood is flown in fresh from the nets every other day, and every piece beef, pork, bison, elk and venison is sliced, diced and chopped to order by owner/chef Doug Smith. Every vegetable is sourced fresh and locally. Seasonal desserts are never a disappointment, and neither are the great selection of signature dishes and sides. For Smith, food is an expression of creativity, skill and hospitality. It is nearly an obsession. “This is like my big house,” he says, “Just like when you have friends over for dinner, you make sure your house is all cleaned up and you prepare really cool food— that’s what I do every day.” “What we do here—the food is absolutely amazing,” he said. “I’m not saying that because I’m the chef and owner, but because I take so much time and have so much pride in what we’re doing.” The proof is in the pudding, or in this case, the pulled pork—and the rest of the delectable menu. Most recently, Smith opened the restaurant for lunch, making his gourmet burgers and sandwiches, soups and salads available seven days a week, beginning at 11 a.m. The word is beginning to spread about this best-kept secret in Scottsdale. “All it takes is one time,” Smith grins. “Once they’ve eaten here one time, customers tell me it’s tough to go out to eat somewhere else.” thebourboncellar.com
Experience The Bourbon Cellar
Sundays through Thursdays, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. 32409 N. Scottsdale Rd. 480-595-5868 thebourboncellar.com f ebruary 2018
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Writer Lynette Carrington Photography by Veronika Countryman
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Bringing the natural beauty of the desert to discriminating clients through her art, Dyana Hesson gathers inspiration from a variety of sources. Each painting is a work of love and, like the desert, the unique elegance of each piece reveals itself during the weeks and months during which it is created. For botanical artist Dyana Hesson, the process of creating her exquisite paintings is as much about how the subject makes her feel emotionally as it is the physical beauty of blooms or cactus. Her works include a variety of succulents, cacti, lilies, tulips and other visual superstars of the desert and garden world, and her subjects exude a compelling visual personality as interpreted by Hesson. Her oil paintings can convey unity, solitude, happiness, love and friendship through the expert orchestration of subject arrangement, angles and interpreted lighting. While the subjects of her paintings are something that most Arizonans see in their everyday life, seen through the artistic interpretation of Hesson, plants, cacti and flowers take on a new meaning. Utilizing layers of oil, Hesson is able to create a unique version of light within the painting itself that creates a heavenly aura for the botanicals and blossoms. A distinctive play of light and shadow gives an ethereal quality to her paintings.
She attended ASU and earned her degree in art, graduating magna cum laude. Now into her 27th year as a professional artist, her work is not about cranking out a certain number of paintings, it’s about personal connection and emotion —feeling each painting and even interpreting a painting to align with a client’s home or lifestyle.
As a child, Hesson would go out on her family property and work on landscaping, eventually taking up photography to capture the magic moments that she experienced with nature.
“I’m so blessed because I would say the art market as a whole has not been that gracious to most of my artist friends,” says Dyana Hesson. “I really feel like it’s not enough to have talent. You also have to have passion, work ethic and a mind for business.” f ebruary 2018
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She often finds her inspiration in the very muse that brings forth colorful and unique blossoms: the desert. Hesson is an avid hiker, especially in the foothills around her northeast Mesa home, and she will often visit other gardens and other states to take photos or observe blossoms and succulents as potential subjects. Her paintings hang in homes all over the world, including many here in Arizona. Carefree architect Mark Tate is among her fans. “He had a client who bought one of his homes in Estancia… a beautiful modern home,” explains Hesson. “When he bought the home, he wanted art. He asked Mark and their design team about supporting a local artist. Their designer asked the new homeowner, ‘What about Dyana Hesson?’”
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Seven of her large pieces that had been residing at Bonner David Galleries in Old Town Scottsdale were hung in the new home so the owner could fly in and see how the paintings clicked in the house. The homeowner purchased every piece. Hesson met Tate through a friend when the architect had been building a home in Scottsdale. Tate was seeking a massive botanical mural for the home and went online to see the artist’s work.
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“We’re both equally passionate about our fields,” says Hesson. “We get each other. He has an artist’s mind. He fell in love with my work and contacted me and asked if I could do this mural.” The mural was ultimately cost prohibitive because of the amount of time Hesson would have to spend on site, and the client made another choice. However, Tate’s admiration of Hesson’s work remained strong and the friendship between the two has grown. “We are admirers of each other’s work,” she explains. In fact, she hopes that one day when she and her husband decide to move, Tate will be the architect of their new home. In December 2015, Hesson’s book “Radiance: The Paintings of Dyana Hesson” hit the market. During the first half of 2016, “Return to the Desert: Celebrating the First 25 years of Paintings by Dyana Hesson” at Desert Botanical Gardens put a couple dozen of her paintings in the spotlight in what was perhaps the most apropos place in the Valley for that kind of exhibition. Then, in March 2017, design professionals nominated f ebruary 2018
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and awarded Hesson with the prestigious Master of the Southwest award from Phoenix Home and Garden. The combination of these three landmark events has put Hesson in high demand. Even so, she does not compromise quality for the time that it takes to create additional inventory. Each painting is a labor of an artist’s love for her craft and can’t be rushed. Each year for the past 15 years, Hesson has held a spring show at Bonner David Galleries to benefit Show Hope, a nonprofit that assists adoptive parents with the financial side of their adoption endeavors. It is a cause close to Hesson’s heart as she herself was adopted into a loving home as a baby. Because of the current demand for her paintings, she is skipping her 2017 show to work on replenishing her inventory. “I’m happily painting, creating and focusing on complex compositions that I want to paint,” says Hesson. “Bonner David still has pieces, but every time I send them a new piece, it sells. Before, I might wait months and sometimes years for those big pieces to sell.” Hesson’s public art can be viewed in various places in the Valley, including Barrows Neurological Center and at St. Joseph's Hospital in Phoenix, with her original art featured at patient check-in and limited edition prints hanging in patients’ rooms. Additionally, her artwork is in the permanent collection at Phoenix Sky Harbor Museum and is featured in ongoing rotation at Rusconi's American Kitchen in North Phoenix. “In our society, especially right now, we are so saturated with eye candy. We have Pinterest and Instagram, and we have these highly polished, filtered, orchestrated and staged photos of everything,” Hesson says. “We have access to and are inundated with really beautiful imagery all day long. My challenge as an artist is working in a medium that is old, messy, stinky, and rudimentary. These paintings don’t come out of printers. They are labored over day after day, sometimes for months.”
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Hesson always wants to inspire her viewers to see the world in a new and compelling way. “My challenge is to get your attention with something that is created from my hands that was inspired maybe by a beautiful or staged picture, but that will capture your attention and also make you think about the natural world and how beautiful the natural world is.” dyanahesson.com
Get Captivated Dyana Hesson Artwork
Ongoing Displays Bonner David Galleries 7040 E. Main St., Scottsdale; Coco Milano 2837 N. Power Rd., Suite 104, Mesa
Call for More Information Carefree Property Group Debbie Omundson
480-375-1522 CarefreeProperty.com McKenzie Brothers, Custom Builder
James Sheehan
MckenzieBrothersBuilder.com
f ebruary 2018
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There’s nowhere quite like Cave Creek! Whether you’re here for a day or a decade, there’s always something to enjoy! Cave Creek restaurants boast some the best food and drinks this side of the Mississippi, and there are plenty of colorful characters to get to know. Tour the town and stop on in! You’re in for a treat—cowboy style!
TAKE A TASTE OF ARIZONA
Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine features its monthly Chef Collaboration Series, this time with awardwinning chef Judd Cummings, owner of Fire and Foraged, Stock and Cellar. February will feature “An Homage to Arizona,” a five-course dinner with ingredients unique to Arizona. When: February 28, 6:30 p.m. Where: Cartwright’s Modern Cuisine 6710 E. Cave Creek Rd., Cave Creek. Cost: See website for cost details and to make reservations. 480-488-8031; cartwrightsmoderncuisine.com
FOLLOW A MYSTERY
Find out how the venerable old Knoedler Art Gallery in New York City was brought down by a fake Rothko painted by an unknown Chinese artist in his garage in Queens. Mary F. Cook from the International Foundation for Art Research will weave this riveting tale. When: Saturday, February 24, 10:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. Where: Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Rd., Cave Creek. Cost: $6. RSVP 480-488-2286; dfla.org
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Contact Tatum Williams at 480-280-9490 or tatum@imagesaz.com to talk about joining our Images Arizona Cave Creek destination pages.
f ebruary 2018
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A
Ask any tourist what brought them to Arizona, and you’ll likely hear something about the more obvious attractions: the Grand Canyon, the weather, and spring training et al. Anyone living in the desert knows, though, that it’s the unassuming things that make Arizona special. It’s the fragile blooms of wildflowers that bring a patchwork of magical color each spring. It’s the silent explosion of oranges, purples and reds that fill the sky as the sun rises and sets each day. And it’s the most unlikely of attractions: the solemn, splendid birds that forego the comfort of leafy perches to live among the prickles and spines of the desert.
Writer Amanda Christmann
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Cactus Wren - Lisa Langell
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Ladder-backed Woodpecker - Jeff Wendorff
Brewer's Sparrow - Jeff Wendorff Black-chinned Sparrow - Jeff Wendorff The brash and boisterous cactus wren is Arizona’s official state bird—a fact that should be of no surprise coming from a state that also boasts an official state tie and an official state gun. The tiny warbler always seems to have an opinion and is not afraid to let it be known.
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Jeff Wendorff Hometown: I was raised in very rural New Canton, Illinois and am now living in my 11th state, Portland, Oregon.
How you got started in photography: I’ve always had a camera, but I didn’t get serious until my first safari in South Africa in 2003. David Middleton has been my friend and mentor almost that long. What inspires you: My photography inspiration comes from a slightly different angle. I have long admired and collected art by the Canadian painter, Robert Bateman. When I was finding my way as a photographer, I kept working to see wildlife in a way that Mr. Bateman might paint. I still keyword my best environmental portraits as “Bateman.” Most memorable experience photographing Arizona birds: Oh boy, well the one that I tell the most is getting hit in the head by the wing of a Ferruginous hawk as it ‘worked’ the crowd at the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum. Your most important piece of advice to budding photographers: Practice, practice and then practice some more, stay true to your vision and never believe critiques from your relatives, unless your last name is Adams. jeffwendorff.com
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Gambel’s Quail - Lisa Langell Gambel’s quail are also common neighbors. Easily identifiable by their comma-shaped topknot of feathers, drivers here know to stop their cars to allow them to trot their tiny babies across roads in the spring.
Curved-Bill Thrasher - Tim Boyer Other birds, such as the “desert default bird,” the curved-bill thrasher, and the quirky, speedy roadrunner, who dashes across the hot desert floor at the same rate as most tourists who try to cross poolside pavement in the summer months, are just as much of a treat to spot.
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Lisa Langell Hometown: Marine City, Michigan Current Residence: Scottsdale, Arizona How you got started in photography: My passion started in photography first with bird watching. My incredible Great Aunt Josephine James taught me about birds at age 8. When I was 14, I received a Canon A-1 (35mm film camera). With it in hand, we traveled to Point Pelee, Ontario, Canada for the world-renowned spring bird migration. We saw over 100 species in one day! The tiny, colorful warblers were my favorite. I drooled at not only the birds, but at the many nature photographers with their long lenses. I distinctly remember thinking, ‘I want to do that someday!’ That started my story and my journey.
Meet Artists Working in Studios Plus—Glass Blowing and Classes
480-837-7163 ArizonaFineArtEXPO.com 26540 N Scottsdale Rd January 12 - March 25 10-week Season Pass $10; Military/Seniors $8 • Open Daily 10am-6pm
What inspires you: Nature inspires me! It’s ever-changing, moody, resilient—yet fragile, and stunningly beautiful. I love the challenge of photographing it in a way that doesn’t just capture an image of what I see, but truly captures the emotion of the moment that transpired while I was there. Most memorable experience photographing Arizona birds: I was at the Gilbert Riparian Preserve one early Friday morning photographing American Avocets— gorgeous, leggy, colorful birds. Suddenly, about 60 feet from me, I heard a massive crash into the water—and sprinting across the pond was a coyote! It was hunting a covey of ducks and was successful by using the element of surprise! I luckily locked focus in time for some spectacular images. Your most important piece of advice to budding photographers: Photography is a journey. Take your time, enjoy each step, and find joy in not just the photographs, but the experiences you have while seeking them. langellphotography.com
WATERFRONT
FINE ART & WINE FESTIVAL FEB 9-11 7135 E Camelback Rd, Scottsdale
GILBERT
FINE ART & WINE FESTIVAL FEB 16-18 90 E Civic Center Dr, Gilbert U P C O M I N G CAREFREE MAR 16-18 FOUNTAIN HILLS MAR 23-25 Meet renowned artists, stroll throughout juried fine arts, enjoy sipping fine wines and listening to live music. $3 Admission • Held Outdoors • 10am-5pm
ThunderbirdArtists.com • 480-837-5637 f ebruary 2018
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Green-Tailed Towhee - Tim Boyer
No matter what kind of feathered friend we spy among the desert landscape, they are always a nice reminder of the vibrant desert life that surrounds us, and that is so intimately interwoven with and interdependent on our own existence.
Acorn Woodpecker - Tim Boyer
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Tim Boyer Hometown: I grew up in Kent Washington and now live a few miles North of Kent in Renton, Washington.
How you got started in photography: I learned photography in high school as one of the photographers for the newspaper and annual. I’m mostly a self-taught photographer; I started photographing birds in 2000, and would photograph on the weekends. Monday mornings, I would drop off my slide film at a professional developing lab, then pick it up on my lunch break. I’d edit my slides in their lobby, tossing the bad images in their trashcan. By reviewing my images just after I’d taken them, I had three or four days to research what I needed to learn so that, by the next weekend, I could improve. In 2005, I switched to digital cameras, and that just made everything easier. What inspires you: In 2006, there were a dozen snowy owls on Damon Point at Ocean Shores, Washington. I went out to photograph them, like a lot of other photographers, and we all left the parking lot around 7 a.m. when the sun was starting to come up. … I was walking into the sun, and the owls were backlit. … I had to figure out how to scoot around them without spooking them so I could get a decent shot. With several other photographers working each owl, this was problematic. I got a few shots, but nothing great, and it was a disappointing day. The next weekend I left the parking lot at 4 a.m. and walked close to the end of Damon Point. I sat down and waited for the sun to come up. As the sun came up and I spotted the closest owl, I slowly walked toward it. With the owl in front of me and the sun behind me, I was in the right position, and it was just me and the owl. By not giving up after the first weekend, thinking about how I could get myself into the right position for the best photograph and waiting for good light—all of these things came together, and I was able to get a great shot. … Being patient with each bird, moving slowly, having the sun at my back, practicing good fieldcraft and having the perseverance to keep going back and keep thinking about how to get the best shot finally paid off. Most memorable experience photographing Arizona birds: I was sitting in a photography blind near Green Valley waiting to photograph a greentailed towhee. I knew it was there, but for three days it wouldn’t come out of the bushes. On the last day I was there, it came out to get some water. This happened near the end of the day, so I got the towhee in beautiful soft evening light. It’s one of my favorite images from Arizona. Your most important piece of advice to budding photographers: Have patience, sit down and let the birds come to you. Don’t press them by walking toward them. Two things will happen: the birds will get closer to you and you’ll get a better shot, and you’ll get a more natural shot as the birds won’t be stressed out. If you see images of birds that are hunched over or compressed, they’re getting ready to jump up and fly away. These are stressed birds and the photographer was too close. timboyerphotography.com f ebruary 2018
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Lisa Langell
Thankfully, there are talented, perceptive photographers willing to rise with the early birds and brave the elements to capture the magnificence of these often-spectacular creatures. With the click of a button and the release of a shutter, these photographers are capturing some of Arizona’s most beautiful assets, one enduring photograph at a time. We are grateful that they have chosen to share them with Images Arizona, and we hope you enjoy them as much as we do.
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Writer Lara Piu Photography i mScott a g e s aBaxter r i z o n a . c o m fe b r uary 2 018
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While many artists gain endless ideas from one central concept, Scottsdale-based sculptor Jeff Zischke, whose work appears throughout the Valley and around the world, is simply inspired. Jeff’s Scottsdale home both displays and stirs his work. His sculptures in a variety of sizes and styles greet my arrival. Inside, a series of cozy outdoor veranda and garden spaces fill the one-acre lot that Jeff and his wife call home. “I love outdoor spaces. Each one has its own specific attitude, theme and environment,” Jeff comments. “Some are more refined and some are more ongoing, and they always include design, artwork and planters.” The areas they create accommodate alfresco dining, company and conversation, as well as contemplative time in the midst of Sonoran beauty. They’re among Jeff’s many creative outlets, and as he designs and grooms them, they give back in the form of visionary juices. One veranda doubles as a display for Jeff’s robust collection of antique lights. Rusty little lamps, some with stained glass, others dating back to World War I, hang from an angled iron shade structure. In another area, the kind of seed pods that sparked the idea for his Sonoran Sea Pods sculptures, on display at George “Doc” Cavalliere Park, carpet the ground. Displays of Jeff’s 25 or so years of work dot the backyard. There are classics, like a cabana prototype that he designed for the W Hotel, and there are newbies, like his latest innovation: simply
elegant outdoor benches that double as planters. They look like concrete, but are actually crafted from steel. This is also where Jeff built his studio and workshop, which looks onto the pool. Inside, Jeff’s studio is chock full of sculpture models. Some are prototypes of projects that came to fruition, while others did not. They are miniatures of work recognizable from throughout the Valley, like “Impulsion,” a larger-than-life sprinting horse made for the entry feature of WestWorld’s Equidome Arena. “I love quests,” Jeff says about the process of winning projects like that at WestWorld. “I like a design challenge, but I also like to create from pure inspiration.” On the day we meet, Jeff receives notice that he won another public art project: a 50-foot-tall desert bloom sculpture made of aluminum tubing and fiberglass, commissioned by the City of Peoria. The permanent piece, which will greet drivers as they head to Lake Pleasant Regional Park, will be illuminated by computer-controlled, colored lightemitting diodes. Pending approvals, Jeff estimates it will be on display by the middle of 2018. “It’s exciting!” he adds. “That’s going to be a super fun project to do.” Jeff was also recently awarded a Chandler Museum project in which he will design a modern 75-foot by 65-foot shade structure with a ceiling that emulates waves. The project is slated to be completed by summer 2018.
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“I’m always entering stuff,” he notes. “You have to constantly be entering public art competitions. That’s what I do, and that’s what I love. I know people who have been doing variations on the same theme for 30 years. I could never do that. I love the challenge of the next thing.” In the corner, there’s a pile of car parts. Jeff explains that he’s transforming them into sculptures for a commissioned project—something he’s never done before. “What a challenge!” he says. “That’s what it should be, I can’t stand doing the same thing. The competitions are always different and I get to work in different materials.” Which explains why marble, steel, plastic, cloth and every material in between lay around the studio. Chances are good that you’ve seen one of Jeff’s finished products. In downtown’s über cool Found.re hotel, there’s Jeff’s 8-foot lime green T. Rex sculpture, and if you’ve placed head-to-pillow in one of its penthouse suites, you may have played with the interactive magnet squares Jeff designed. Some are patterns, others are a mish-mash of celebrity faces, and all are fun. His other design project locations include Axis/Radius, Sanctuary nightclub and Zen 32 restaurant and bar. The sculptor and designer studied ceramics and painting at Eastern Michigan University and showed at art fairs in his early career years. “That helped hone in my style and skills,” he explains. His inspiration draws from organic shapes and modern technology. “I’ve always been into the computer stuff, thank goodness,” Jeff says, adding that it’s not only enriched his work, but also made it possible for him to create three-dimensional models. “People can see, ‘Oh, this is what it could look like,’ and that’s really, really important.” Jeff combines bamboo, plastics, steel, computer-controlled lights and a wide range of other materials to create interactive installations that respond to the natural and urban environment, which is especially apropos in the Valley. He uses his work to invite people to form a personal and dynamic relationship with the art and the place.
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“Each project becomes tied to its environment through the use of local materials and working processes, strengthening community connections,” Jeff remarks. His work has been installed in France, Serbia, India and Japan, as well as throughout the Valley and other cities. Milan’s Salone Del Mobile, The Guggenheim Museum in New York City, and The Designers Block in London are among the exhibitions where his work is showcased. Jeff is brimming with inventive imagination.Among his other impressive projects, he created Groovebots, a cast of colorful decorative animal characters in a variety of sizes and materials. It all starts with Jeff’s daily morning hike. “That’s where the ideas come,” Jeff shares. “I do almost the same trail every day, five days a week. I see something new every day. I get ideas walking there, and that’s how things start with me.” His latest passion is Zortado, a unique coffee shop that will serve Spanishand Portuguese-style coffee with Jeff’s personal twist. The space will also display his work. “It’s exciting to work on a conceptual store space that is also a gallery,” he explains as he hands me a sample of the coffee he plans to serve—an antique pastis glass filled with the best coffee I’ve had outside of Italy. Laid on top is a candied ginger; it sweetens the coffee in a unique and terrific way. As I take a sip, I experience Zortado's alignment with Jeff’s art—it has depth, yet it’s fun, one-of-a-kind and is always on the cutting edge. jeffzischke.com
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Writer Shannon Severson Photography by Scott Baxter
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Light pours in through the windows of Sam Pratt’s Paradise Valley home studio, illuminating abstract contemporary paintings on their canvases, the rustic flagstone floors and curated collections of things that inspire her: sketches from friends, a scrap of fabric, an artfully-arranged display of silver shoes and sculptures created by her son, who is a metal artist in Sedona. “Studios have big voices,” says Pratt. “What an artist collects says a lot about them.” The home itself says a lot about Pratt. Along with her paintings, it reflects her eye for design and detail and the real estate acumen of many years spent in the industry. Purchased in 1989 as a dark and dated ranch house, she redesigned and supervised a full rebuild over the course of 18 months to create a space that feels like an Italian farmhouse. True plaster walls and furnishings of all-organic fabrics allow her art to fill the rooms with color. And there is music. Always music. “I experience music in a visual way,” says Pratt. “When I hear music, I see color. I always paint and draw with music playing, and my work often has elements that resemble a musical score. While the style is abstract, there is form. There is enormous order and discipline, even though it may appear to be a three-ring circus.”
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If you mess it up, so be it. But what if you don’t? What if it’s fabulous?
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A decade ago, Pratt shifted from portrait art to abstract contemporary painting when dear friend and master pianist, Susan Fishman, performed a piano piece composed by Domenico Scarlatti. What she heard felt like the true match to her visual perception of shape, form and texture. Even the pattern of lines on someone’s face translated to sound in her mind. The rhythm and melody resonated to her core, and the manifestation of it in her art has been captivating collectors ever since. Pratt keeps a selection of programs from musical performances she has attended, each page a small work of art as she draws while she listens. This new path was formed, but it’s one rooted in her childhood. Pratt’s father was a musician— an expert drummer who, along with her mother, always encouraged Pratt’s artistic talent. She recalls a small drafting table her parents set up on the landing of their Great Barrington, Massachusetts home where she could draw for hours undisturbed. At six years old, she began her formal education at a Boston College summer program for children. It was clear that art was her calling, but she wasn’t quite sure of the best direction to go. At the age of 16, she penned a note to Norman Rockwell, who just happened to live in the next town over. “He invited me to bring my artwork to his studio,” says Pratt. “His fame sort of went over my head. I just thought of him as an artist who
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was older than I. We spent the day together, sitting at a table that is now in The Norman Rockwell Museum, and he looked at every scrap of paper I’d brought.” When Pratt explained her interest in illustration and fashion design, Rockwell picked up the phone and rang renowned New York fashion designer Anne Fogarty, who invited her to a face-to-face meeting in New York City. Fogarty offered Pratt a job on the spot. “I said, ‘Well, I have to finish high school,’” says Pratt. “I don’t think she realized my age.” Excited by the opportunities New York City could afford, Pratt was accepted into Duchesne Residence School in Manhattan, a finishing school and convent; it was her only way to get to New York. “The idea was to turn us into polished young ladies,” says Pratt. “My parents thought I was at school, but little did they know this kid from Great Barrington had the reign of New York at her fingertips. I studied at the Art Students League, went to every fabulous show at the MET. I’d skip school to sketch skaters at Rockefeller Center and sell the drawings ... Store windows were astonishing! Andy Warhol had his show drawings in the windows of I. Miller. [Legendary fashion photographer] Bill Cunningham photographed my feet for his longrunning editorial in the New York Times. He liked my shoes! Hello, New York!”
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You have to get over the fear, in art and in life. If you are true to yourself, you’ll always feel complete.
She took chances early, knocking on the doors of top stationery buyers and fashion designers in the city. She sold her first greeting card design and was soon working with the big guns: Caspari, Eaton, Crane and Montag. “New York had such great energy,” says Pratt. “It was riddled with possibilities. What’s the worst that can happen? Someone says no. As an artist, I have to be ready to hear that.” Risk is present even in the simple act of putting pen to paper or brush to canvas. Pratt believes in buying the best possible materials, as any given piece could turn out to be remarkable. “You have to be brave to be an artist,” says Pratt. “You’re going to defile a piece of paper or an expensive canvas and then you have to hope someone will buy it. If you mess it up, so be it. But what if you don’t? What if it’s fabulous? “You have to get over the fear, in art and in life. If you are true to yourself, you’ll always feel complete. If you’re kind, you can make mistakes and people will forgive you. I’d like to think that there’s no penalty for being authentic.” When Pratt works, there’s a spiritual component. She gets out of her own way, setting aside fear and putting heart and soul into the work, feeling it will find a respondent heart. Whether it’s a commissioned piece for a design client, a refined collector or a casual observer, she is pleased when people respond to how her work makes them feel. It’s a connection.
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Relationship is at the center of Pratt’s life and work. She collaborates with Brady Gray, LLC in Scottsdale, owned by Jeanne Altman, and is often invited to homes when her work is installed. She most enjoys when she can invite a client into her own studio to see her work and choose what speaks to them. Pratt is a prolific painter and continues to paint both commissioned work and that of her own choosing, often with a Scarlotti sonata playing in the background. On the horizon is a project for Scottsdale’s David E. Adler Fine Rugs, which will produce rugs from two of her paintings, “There’s a Song to be Sung,” which was inspired by the birth of Altman’s grandchild, and “6:30 Villa Fiore,” a representation of the early morning light in her front yard, facing Camelback Mountain. Villa fiore means “flower cottage” in Italian and is a nod to her father, who emigrated from the northeastern Italian town of Pordenone. Pratt and Altman collaboratively contribute to design a table each year Phoenix Art Museum’s annual philanthropic Independent Woman Luncheon to support excellence in visual arts and education. Arizonaborn interior designer and author Amy Lau will be this year’s keynote speaker and honoree. “I love my life — my studio, what I do,” says Pratt. “I believe my work is wellreceived and it’s always expanding. I love meeting people and seeing their reactions when they connect with my paintings. We may not know each other well, and yet we are bonded by art.”
Each Visit includEs:
• Visual inspection of all rooms • Check HW heater • Check for pests, insects • Check landscaping, pool and spa • Check for signs of leaking • Check thermostats • Visual inspection of garage and systems • Run water, flush toilets • Check fridge
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602-909-6635 Our mission is simple...
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R e f e r e n c e s
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Writer Margie BouttĂŠ Photography Courtesy of Elite Travel of Scottsdale
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Luxury cruising is the fastest growing sector within the travel industry. Travelers are looking for a five-star luxury experience while traveling to obscure or newly discovered locales, and with upscale products emerging, travelers are discovering the ease of both ocean and river cruising. When Antarctica becomes a top destination for cruisers we know there have been some big changes in the luxury cruise business! The top trends we are seeing for 2018 include:
WELLNESS, FITNESS AND PERSONAL HEALING Wellness and fitness at sea remain hot, but a new component to luxury cruise programming is rejuvenation or “personal healing.” Voyages of 10 to 14 days, extended itineraries and longer world cruises offer the luxury of time for guests, not only to work out, but also to recharge both physically and mentally. Even a short cruise break can be beneficial for rejuvenation. Cruises with wellness, fitness and personal healing appeal to travelers recovering from a long or serious illness and those dealing with personal grief. Not uncommon is the divorce cruise, as luxury customers look to the sea to celebrate their rebirth or, alternatively, find comfort and personal rediscovery after a difficult split. It’s all about shifting into life’s next chapter and luxury lines have responded with a slew of new options.
THE RISE OF ADVENTURE & EXPEDITION LUXURIFICATION In the past, if cruisers desired to sail to Borneo, Siberia or the Galapagos Islands, cruise choices were minimal, and many expedition ships lacked creature comforts. Today, adventure travel is on the rise and expedition cruising has gone luxury. This year, adventure travel is a dominant trend and a highly desirable form of vacation. For example, this winter, SilverSea Cruises’ Silver Cloud will sail to Antarctica, with an expedition team of up to 19 experts onboard. Guests can attend expert lectures and presentations daily in the ship’s theater or watch those live in their suite. During a multi-million-dollar drydock update, Silver Cloud gained a new observation lounge to allow guests to “ooh” and “aah” at glaciers, volcanoes, tropical isles and marine life from the comfort of a luxury ship. Fitness buffs also can work out with new Technogym equipment. Other expedition ships can drop anchor in the most inaccessible places, including Papua New Guinea, South America’s Orinoco and Amazon rivers, remote areas of Costa Rica, the Maldives and the Bissagos Islands off the f ebruary 2018
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West African coastline. From small, agile ships to mega-yachts, cruisers can follow migrating paths of whales or explore remote islands or polar regions at the level of comfort they desire.
MORE UPSCALE TRENDS Culinary and Wine: The wine keeps on flowing on luxury products. For example, SeaDream Yacht Club is partnering with several worldrenowned wineries to offer nine wine-themed cruises in the Caribbean and Mediterranean in 2018. These special voyages accommodating just 112 guests offer complimentary wine tastings, exquisite food and wine pairings, and specially curated land adventures. River lines, too, are focused on wine. In 2018, AmaWaterways will offer 50-plus European wine-focused river cruises hosted by North American winemakers, winery owners and expert oenologists. AmaWaterways additionally offers wine-themed shore excursions in France’s Bordeaux, Burgundy and Alsace regions; Germany’s Moselle and Rhine valleys; Austria’s Wachau; and Portugal’s Douro River area. SilverSea Expedition’s Silver Cloud, sailing from Lima to Punta Arenas, and Oceania Cruises, which will launch the Riviera between Lisbon and Rome and the Sirena from Rome to Venice, also offer culinary excursions, classes and other tasteful delights for cruisers this year.
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Ponant has begun accepting bookings for its expedition cruises to Antarctica for winter 2018/2019. From November 2018 to March 2019, Ponant is offering 25 cruises aboard the company’s four sister yachts: Le Boreal, L’Austral, Le Soleal and Le Lyrial. Six different itineraries are available, ranging from the Antarctic, South Georgia, Falkland Islands and British overseas territories. Experience scenic, compelling Japan, visiting unique ports and rarely seen wilderness areas in luxury with no more than 199 guests onboard the exclusively chartered Ponant’s L'Austral. Listen to fascinating lectures from A&K's award-winning expedition team and choose from a variety of enriching experiences en route. Limited availability remains on this 14-day cruise, sailing May 16-29, 2018. For golf enthusiasts, don’t miss these exclusive golf voyages brought to you by Azamara Club Cruises and PerryGolf. During the spring and summer, they will offer voyages to the East Coast and Bermuda, Southeast Asia to Hong Kong, the Baltic Sea including Russia, the British Isles with attendance to the British Open, plus five voyages in the Mediterranean. Cuba is exceeding our expectations and space is booking very fast. In 2018 and 2019, Oceania Cruises and Azamara Club Cruises will offer a series of Cuba voyages. In 2019, Seadream Yacht Club will begin a series of eight circle-Cuba voyages sailing between Havana and Cienfuegos. On July 7, 2018, the Azamara Quest sets sail on a stunning Redentore (Feast of the Redeemer) voyage, sailing from one side of Italy to the other, with the remarkable Dalmatian coast in between. As an Azamara
Our 2017-2018 Inaugural Season
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guest, you’ll attend the Redentore, a religious celebration. At sunset, St. Mark’s Basin begins to fill up with boats of all kinds, from a bridge to the island where the Church of Redentore sits. At 11:30 p.m., the fireworks begin, lighting up the spires, domes and bell towers of the city. With the reflections in the water and on the ancient façades, there is really nothing else like it! Join A&K on their inaugural Cruising the Greek Isles journey and see fascinating ruins, singular historic sites, natural marvels and cruise aboard Ponant’s brand-new, exclusively chartered luxury vessel, Le Laperouse. October 10, 2018. Limited to 150 guests. Cruise with A&K’s award-winning expedition team for 21 nights along the full length of the breathtaking Northwest Passage, voyaging from Greenland to the Canadian Arctic to the Bering Sea and ending in Alaska. August 18, 2018. Limited to 199 guests. (Limited cabins remain). Explore Europe in relaxing, elegant and authentic style by canal barge. Select from several luxurious new barges being introduced in 2018.
In summary, today’s luxury traveler seeks more depth of understanding and immersion into local culture than ever before. People don’t just want to see; they want to participate. It used to be consumers were all about acquiring stuff. Today they're about acquiring memories, and at the end of the day, we’re in the memory business.
Margie Boutté, owner/ luxury travel consultant of Elite Travel of Scottsdale and Grayhawk resident, has been designing unforgettable travel experiences for clients nationally for over 20 years. Her motto is, “If you can imagine the dream, I can create the reality.” Margie, an affiliate of Montecito Village Travel - A Virtuoso Member, holds numerous specialist certifications with hotels/ resorts, cruise lines, destinations, Virtuoso & Virtuoso Cruise Host accreditation, and keeps current through continuing education and travels. She has traveled to 153 cities in 33 countries around the world. 480-451-0612 elitetravelofscottsdale.com
The Coldwell Banker Global Luxury Concert Series Bob Pfeiffer, Luxury Home Specialist bobazliving@gmail.com SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 19, 2017 @ 3PM Nicole Pesce & Nicole Pesce Trio Bob Lashier, Bass ~ Dom Moio, Drums SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2017 @ 3PM Joseph Wytko, Saxophonist SUNDAY, JANUARY 14, 2018 @ 3 PM Eduardo Minozzi Costa, Classical Guitar & A Capella Syndicate SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2018 @ 3PM Alice Tatum, Vocalist with Todd Chuba, Drums ~ Bob Lashier, Bass & Nicole Pesce, Keyboard SUNDAY, MARCH 25, 2018 @ 3PM Omar Mondragon de Leon, SingerGuitarist-Songwriter & Saxophonist Joseph Wytko SUNDAY, APRIL 22, 2018 @ 3 PM We3 – Vocalist Renee Grant Patrick, Violinist Suzanne Lansford & PianistComposer-Keyboardist Nicole Pesce
The Boulders Resort & Spa Latilla Ballroom 34631 N. Tom Darlington Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85262 Concert info: (480) 204-7292 JosephMusic@cox.net Ticketing:
coldwellbankerconcerts.eventbrite.com SPONSORS: ARIZONA STATE UNIV. EMERITUS COLLEGE ~ BOB PFEIFFER, REALTOR ~ IMAGES ARIZONA MAGAZINE ~ VESUVIUS PRESS INC ~ ENGLISH ROSE TEA ROOM ~ LMC HOME ENTERTAINMENT LTD ~ ULTIMATE HEATING & COOLING LLC ~ CAREFREE COVERINGS INC ~ CAREFREE FLOORS ~ CAREFREE TRAVELER INC – CRYSTAL CRUISES ~ DOVE VALLEY ANIMAL HOSPITAL ~ LPL FINANCIAL – RYAN TORONTO MBA, CFP ~ PORSCHE NORTH SCOTTSDALE ~ CORNERSTONE SERVICES ~ JOSEPH MUSIC EVENTS ~ LET THERE BE LIGHT ~ PATTI SCHAUMBERG ~ BETSY & GARY SWENSON f ebruary 2018
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Writer Amanda Larson Photography by Bryan Black and Bill Timmerman
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That outsider who lives up there on the mountain is at the peak of human evolution. … We need a number of those people. Even though they don’t join our game, they tell us, ‘What you’re doing is only a game.'
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– Alan Watts
Michael P. Johnson has presence. It’s not the fact that his 6-foot, 4-inch frame makes him tower over most of his friends or his distinct mane of long white hair that makes him stand out in a room; Johnson has a distinctive energy about him that isn’t seen so much as it is felt.
a J&B scotch. “I don’t sugarcoat things. I call a spade a spade.”
History will probably call Johnson an architect. That nomer isn’t inaccurate. He is, after all, one of the most recognized modernist architects of our time. He runs his architectural firm, Michael P. Johnson Design Studio, out of Cave Creek, and he taught for 28 years at the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture. He is also a professor at the prestigious International Academy of Architecture in Sophia, Bulgaria and at the Democritus University of Thrace School of Architecture in Xanthi, Greece.
Despite his sometimes-disarming candor, Johnson is also emphatically unpretentious and deliberate in all he does. His work reflects a refreshing lack of frivolity, and choices made from sound logic and intuition—something he developed from years of autodidactic study.
In reality, however, Johnson is a philosopher whose expression is through architecture. Whether his language is through words or the building materials he chooses, he weaves a narrative that is rarely, if ever, simplistic. It is just as much about expressing his inner spirit as it is about creating beautiful spaces. Each thought and element is turned through a tumbler in his mind, honed and polished by his ideals. The ideas that emerge are not particularly mainstream, but then again, neither is Johnson. That’s what makes him brilliant.
He can be brash, and is seldom politically correct. In fact, he tells clients that his only mandate is that they must leave him alone. Still, when they do, what Johnson comes up with is never a disappointment.
BECOMING MICHAEL To understand Johnson’s work, it’s important to first understand his history. In his own words, “No one comes from nothing or nowhere,” and, “You can’t make history until you know history.” Johnson was born in 1938. His earliest years were consumed by World War II, which began three years after he was born. His father, Gilbert, was a loving, devout Catholic man who became the youngest commissioned colonel in the war. When it ended in 1945, he was discharged on disability and the family moved to Wisconsin. Gilbert taught himself metallurgy, which planted the idea in young Michael that there was more to learning than formal education.
“Everybody throws around words,” Johnson says critically, nursing
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Every evening after dinner, Gilbert underlined five stories in the day’s newspaper, handing it to his sons with instructions to read each article. Afterward, he quizzed them on the details. It was this nurturing act of parenting that fostered Johnson’s keen interest in politics, as well as his love for learning. Early on, Johnson was diagnosed with dyslexia. Instead of letting it limit him, he pledged to read 5,000 books—a feat he accomplished years ago. He read, and continues to read, poetry, theology, mathematics and philosophy—nearly every book he can get his hands on. Each one left pieces of perspective that he has the remarkable ability to summon in casual conversation. Johnson applies the same type of controlled, logical approach to nearly everything in his life. In his typically candid, unabridged style, he tells me, “Emotion pollutes the intellect. People get emotional about the g-ddamnedest things.” In 1948, at the age of 10, Johnson built a house with his father and brother. It was his first foray into the industry, and he fell in love. Recognizing his talent and passion, his mother, Lorraine, enrolled him in art and drawing classes. Life marched on. The 1950s and ’60s brought McCarthyism, the Korean War, the Civil Rights movement, and a flurry of political movements and philosophies. Johnson became an active participant in world events. In particular, he became impassioned about the Chicano Movement in California. During the grape boycott, he met César Chávez and shared his desire to improve living conditions for farm workers. Also during those years, console television sets were made the focal point of living rooms across the country. Shows like “I Love Lucy,” “Father Knows Best,” “Gunsmoke,” and “The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet” were creating a national identity, while the increased popularity and reach of commercials resulted in a rise in consumerism that continues today. There was also a counterculture evolving through literature and music. Authors like Jack Kerouac, Allen Ginsberg, Charles Burkowski and William S. Burroughs built on a Dostoyevskian foundation, challenging what they saw as the façades of society: materialism, militarism and Western religious values. Despite, or possibly because of, their cynical rejection for conformity, their influence grew—particularly in young Michael P. Johnson.
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“I’m too old to be a hippie,” Johnson says casually. “I was actually a beatnik.” The Beat Movement philosophy continued into the 1960, eventually inspiring musicians like Bob Dylan, Neil Young and Leonard Cohen. It also influenced an architect and fellow philosopher who was a couple of decades Johnson’s senior. Paolo Soleri had moved from Italy to Arizona to study with Frank Lloyd Wright. In the early 1960s, Johnson invited Soleri to lecture at the Milwaukee Arts Center. The two became fast friends, and after years of phone calls and letters, Soleri invited Johnson to Arizona in 1967. Johnson fell in love with the desert. “I was freezing my ass off in Wisconsin,” Johnson says. He was also burned out on what he felt was architecture becoming a “trash for cash” industry, with function and ethics becoming less important than commercial appeal. In 1976, he made a permanent move to Cave Creek.
AN EVOLVED STYLE Long before Cave Creek became a boutique town, it was home to horses, hippies and Harleys. Cowboys and bikers lived peacefully alongside long-haired folks in flowy clothes, not because they shared the same beliefs, but because they were all misfits of sorts. Johnson fit right in with the artists and independent people who became his neighbors. In Cave Creek, Johnson found home. He also found his mojo. Johnson was originally a student of Frank Lloyd Wright’s organic architecture that utilized wood, stone and plaster to create modern designs. Over time, Johnson developed an appreciation for the work of architects Mies van der Rohe, Ulrich Franzen and Walter Gropius, among others. Like them, Johnson envisioned many of the same uncluttered, simple lines and integration with the environment that Wright advocated, but he grew to prefer the sleek permanence of steel and glass.
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“If someone comes to me through a recommendation, I always tell them to go on my website and look at what I do, because that’s what they’re going to get. In other words, if you want an organic building, you’re not going to get it from me,” he said. Locally, some of the breathtaking homes and buildings he’s conceived include the Ellsworth/Davenport Residence in Cave Creek, the Bradley Residence in Scottsdale, and the Yoder Residence near South Mountain. Other work has been commissioned across the country, like the Parr Residence in Shelter Island, New York that seems to float over water, and the Hiller Residence in Winter Park, Colorado, cantilevered over a ravine for more of a unity than a dichotomy between structure and nature. Like all of his work, they carry his unique signature: They are magnificent on the outside—“utter simplicity combined with an almost worshipful treatment of the [environment],” in the words of architectural writer Taz Looman— but like his own personal philosophy influenced by the poets and dreamers of his youth, the real investment of time, money and thought is in the interior. To Johnson, function beats decoration. Nearly all his spaces are white—including Italian white porcelain floor tile, glass walls and gypsum board, chalk white walls. His only contrast color is black. Despite monochromatic simplicity, what evolves is far from cold or expressionless. His spaces are surprisingly warm and evocative. Author Louise Noelle, who wrote a book about Johnson called “Michael P. Johnson: The Unshakeable Search for Architecture,” described his work scrupulously: “… the aspiration was
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to create an unsentimental, rational, and minimal, yet sensuously elegant residential architecture, that was to promote social equality, optimism, and aesthetically balanced and liberated life.”
ARCHITECTURAL THEORY “The role of an architect should be looked as a constructor of dwellings, of built environments,” Johnson explained, citing Heidegger’s 1971 essay, “Building, Dwelling, Thinking.”
E stablishEd 1978
DOWNSIZING YOUR ART COLLECTION?
He outlines five fundamentals that form the foundation of all of his work: • In the placement of the building in nature, the building must be as unobstructive as possible. • Structural method and concept are paramount in design development. • Function trumps capriciousness. • The budget should focus on the interior, not the exterior. • Architecture is a complex problem in which the site, the program and the structure must fit together in a beautiful way. “It wasn’t until the late 1800s and early 1900s that architects began to care about the common man,” he adds. “Prior to that, the only things architects cared about were museums, religious buildings and homes for the very wealthy. We are going backward because star architects now only do museums, train stations and airports. They won’t even design a house because the money and glory are not there.” He pauses for a moment, then continues, “The problem lies in education and knowledge. When I was growing up, we were more culturally aware and more educated. When I graduated from grade school in the 50s, we had about the same education as what I see in high school graduates now. “In high school back then, part of our art education course was the study of architecture. We studied the theater and the arts, read good books, and we were given a
Ed Mell Azure Sundown Oil on linen 42 by 66 inches $40,000-$60,000 Realized $93,000 at auction, January 2018
seeking Fine art consignments For an auction evaluation, please submit images and inFormation to inFo@altermann.com.
You maY also mail submission materials to the
scottsdale gallerY. Richard Altermann richard@altermann.com 480-433-0778
ALTERMANN.COM • (855) 945-0448 7172 e. main st, scottsdale, aZ 85251
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Learn
Unshakeable Quest for Architecture: The Constructions of Michael P. Johnson February 20 9–10 a.m. Palm Springs Art Museum Annenberg Theater 101 N. Museum Dr., Palm Springs, CA $12 modernismweek.com
foundation of architecture and the plastic arts. Today’s students don’t have any of the tools they need to make a qualitative decision or to think of things critically.” For Johnson, it’s also about celebrating culture—something he feels is lacking in current architectural trends. It’s something he’s passionate about, and he harbors unforgiving rancor for an industry that seems to have left it behind. “Unfortunately, 99% of the buildings built in the U.S. have nothing to do with architecture; they’re just buildings. They’re junk,” he says. “Most architects are merely draftspersons for a cultureless society.” The same disregard for “selling out” has led to Johnson’s contempt for the so-called green movement. The latest trend for architectural firms and contractors to become LEED certified may have had altruistic roots, but Johnson says that is not the case today. “I believe very much in energy efficiency, but I criticize when the industry uses it as a marketing strategy,” he said. It is within these principles that Johnson continues to create,
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and to lecture worldwide to budding architectural hopefuls— something he says he will continue to do. “Many of us come to a place where we either become complacent or satisfied with where we are,” he says. “Not me. “People say, ‘When are you going to retire?’ I say I’m not done yet.” That’s because, for Johnson, there is still plenty to accomplish. Like the late Alfred Newman Beadle IV, whose desert modernism is now part of architectural vernacular, once said, “If visual pollution were toxic, we'd all be dead now.” Johnson has taken that mantra and turned it into his own version. “If visual pollution was criminal, 95 percent of architects would be in jail,” he says sourly, his J&B drained. The irony is that, through Johnson’s works of modern function and form, he is not trying to create something new so much as he is attempting to preserve something that once was. And so he will continue, expressing not only his skill, but also his own bohemian credo, in dwellings that inspire the rest of us to want to listen.
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Writer Amanda Christmann // Photography by Bryan Black
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The sands of time have a way of honing the past, shaping and polishing it so that generations to come can judge it more clearly. At times, the decades or centuries reveal horrors we hope to never repeat. But sometimes what is revealed is nothing less than greatness.
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The life of Edward S. Curtis is one such epic. Curtis was a photographer who set out on perhaps the most incredible photographic odyssey in history, yet his genius was not recognized until long after he died. Curtis’s legacy, 40,000 photographs, videos and audio recordings of longgone indigenous languages, cultures and traditions, can only be found in private collections and a few select museums. Cave Creek Museum has the distinguished honor of being among the few institutions where Curtis’s work can be seen. An exhibit titled “The Photography of Edward S. Curtis” will be on display through March 31.
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It took Curtis 30 years and cost him everything—his money, his reputation and his marriage—to complete. His opus magnum was a 20-volume set of 400 photographs called “The North American Indian,” now referred to by the US Library of Congress as “the most significant record of Native culture ever produced.” Only 227 sets were printed, and it wasn’t until one was dusted off in the basement of a Boston bookseller in the 1970s that the world began to take notice. Curtis’s work is nothing short of incredible, but his life-long quest to advocate for Native Americans, including his personal struggles, achievements and the criticism he received, is a story in itself.
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Curtis was born in Whitewater, Wisconsin in 1868. His father had been a Union soldier and chaplain during the Civil War, and would later become a preacher, instilling his son with both a sense of ethical responsibility and love for the outdoors. When Edward was born, the US was in the throes of an ugly period of history. More than 200 battles were fought between US troops and tribes from the Dakota Territory to Mexico from 1866 to 1875. The government had mandated that practicing Native religions and other traditions were felonies, although they often saw honoring treaties and social contracts as optional. Though Curtis likely heard about what was happening to Native Americans in those dark times, he would later recall that it was an engraving that planted the seeds of his life purpose. What was depicted in that picture was the largest single-day execution in American history. Thirty-eight Dakota Sioux Indians were hanged in Mankato, Minn. following the
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Sioux Uprising. It occurred 25 miles from the Minnesota town where the Curtis family would move in 1880.
LIFE THROUGH THE LENS Curtis’s father had brought back a lens from the Civil War, and at the age of 12, Edward used a photography manual to build his first camera. That moment would mark a crossroad in his life, as did the day he bought his first camera at the age of 18—a purchase his mother said was a waste of his money. It turns out that it was not. That camera was the gateway to Curtis’s journey. He moved to Seattle at 18, followed by his soon-to-be wife Clara, to form a partnership in a photography and engraving business. Local women found Curtis especially appealing. Through his lens, the handsome Curtis was able to portray their mundane lives as sophisticated and interesting. By some accounts, Clara enjoyed the money Curtis brought in more than she enjoyed photography. Still, they
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had four children together and forged a life in the Pacific Northwest that would have likely remained comfortable had it not been for two chance encounters. The first was with Princess Angeline, the daughter of the great Chief Sealth, for whom Seattle was named. It was illegal for Native Americans to live within city limits, but Angeline had been given an exemption. Well into her 90s when she met Curtis, she lived in poverty on the edge of town, digging clams for a living. Curtis was enthralled. He offered to pay Angeline one dollar per portrait, a fee Angeline accepted enthusiastically. The details and expressions of her face that Curtis captured with his lens were unlike anything seen at the time. They earned him grand prize in an exhibition sponsored by the American Photographic Society. Princess Angeline died soon after in the city’s skid row. That same year, he made a second life-changing chance encounter. While climbing Mt. Rainier, he stumbled upon a climbing party in distress. That party included George Bird Grinnell, editor of Forest and Stream magazine and founder of the Audubon Society; and Clinton Hart Merriam, had of the US Biological Survey and founder of the National Geographic Society.
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Grateful for his assistance and impressed by his acumen, they invited Curtis along for the Harriman Expedition to Alaska as their official photographer. It was a wild card of fate that gave Curtis the opportunity to learn the basics of anthropological research—despite the fact that he hadn’t finished his sixth grade education. Grinnell then invited Curtis to Montana to witness the last Sun Dance performed by the Plains Indians, and to Arizona to witness a Hopi Snake Dance. The seeds planted in Curtis’s mind began to germinate and bloom
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into an impassioned desire for activism and a pressing need to document the disappearing culture and faces of Native Americans while there was still time.
people. He ennobled Native Americans with his work, portraying them as proud people—something that took white society at least another century to appreciate.
A WORTHY ENDEAVOR
Half anthropologist, half activist, Curtis was driven by his desire to depict unadulterated Native cultures. It was his greatest achievement and his greatest downfall.
The US Census indicated that there were only 235,000 Native Americans left in North America when Curtis began. Cultures were being forced into extinction by the US government and by Christian missionaries. His only problem was funding. Curtis’s dreams were bigger than his pocketbook. He approached the Smithsonian Institution for funding only to be turned down, then made a fruitless trek through New York in search of a publisher. Undaunted, Curtis bought a motion picture camera and used his own funds to set out for the Navajo Nation. He used his savvy to convince the tribe to allow him to photograph their sacred Yeibechei Dance. (They performed it backward, as they still do for secular audiences.) The next years were a flurry of shows and opportunities. Curtis caught the eye of Theodore Roosevelt and added photographs of Geronimo and Chief Joseph to his portfolio. He was doing it on his own dime, and he was running out of money when railroad magnate JP Morgan came to his aid. He agreed to plunk down a total of $75,000 to fund the project—a massive sum in 1906. Curtis traveled by burro, boat and horseback from one remote tribe to the next, earning trust and gaining access to ceremonies and cultures never before opened to white
Experience The Photography of Edward S. Curtis 1–4:30 p.m. daily; Fridays 10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. Closed Mondays and Tuesdays Cave Creek Museum 6140 E. Skyline Dr., Cave Creek $3–$5; children under 12 admitted free 480-488-2764 cavecreekmuseum.org
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White laws and influences had infiltrated many tribes. He was known to bring along his own “Native” clothing and props, and even to use techniques akin to Photoshop to alter negatives so images would fit his version of “true” Native experiences. His subjects didn’t seem to mind having things like clocks or umbrellas removed from photos, or wearing clothing that was not theirs; but today, critics take exception. By removing evidence of neocolonialism, they say, Curtis ignored the struggles and injustices Natives endured. Curtis pushed on, but despite the generous backing from Morgan, he still couldn’t pay his mounting bills. His wife Clara was no longer interested in standing alone while Curtis traversed the country for months at a time. In a bitter divorce, she took him to court for all he was worth—and got it. Curtis was broke and broken. He found himself completely defeated in California, where he shot film of fake Indians for Hollywood. His daughter Florence provided encouragement. Together, they filmed and photographed the last of his California Indian volume, then traveled to the arctic to complete the last series.
His was a feat that remains one of the greatest works of anthropological documentation.
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Yet none of it belonged to Curtis.
A WORTHY ENDING Curtis was so indebted to the estate of JP Morgan (the mogul had died years prior) that he was forced to sign away the project’s copyright. The Morgan estate sold his work in its entirety for $1,000 to a Boston publisher. And there it sat. When Curtis died in 1952, he received a meager 77-word obituary that spoke briefly of his authority on North American Indians. The last line simply read: “Mr. Curtis was also widely known as a photographer.” Like many of the people, dances, languages, ceremonies and religions Curtis preserved in pictures, frames and audio, “The North American Indian” disappeared into obscurity—until a complete set of all 20 volumes was rediscovered in a bookseller’s basement. That single set sold for $2.88 million at auction in 2013. Other few surviving sets have been equally coveted.
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The Photography of Edward S. Curtis exhibit is a tremendous accomplishment for the Cave Creek Museum. It marks the first time it has been displayed in the Phoenix area. “This is an exceptional collection with unique pieces that you won’t see anywhere else,” said museum executive director Karrie Porter Brace. “We are displaying ‘The North American Indian’ in its entirety, signed by Teddy Roosevelt and Edward Curtis.” It’s a fitting acknowledgement for man whose extraordinary life was unrecognized for far too long.
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Writer Amanda Christmann Photography by Bryan Black
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Hiking or biking the serene desert trails of Brown’s Ranch, it’s easy to get lost in the rugged natural beauty of saguaro-studded landscapes, bursts of spring wildflowers and precariously balanced boulders. If you’re fortunate enough to spend time in this little corner of the Valley on a weekday, you can often traverse the entire three-mile out-and-back trail without seeing another person. Yet the human history of Brown’s Ranch is indelibly intertwined in its story. Like so much of Valley land now covered in concrete and shopping centers, cattle and cowboys once roamed this land. The only difference is that, at Brown’s Ranch and the rest of the 30,500 acres of land in the safe keeping of Scottsdale’s McDowell Sonoran Preserve, history and the environment are being consciously and carefully safeguarded for future generations. At Brown’s Ranch, Edwin Orpheus “E.O.” Brown and his wife, Mary Jane Coldwell Brown raised six children and thousands of heads of cattle in the dusty, rocky foothills in the early 1900s. During roundups, cowboys (some more scrupulous than others) came from all around to help.
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Hiking the present-day trail toward the old ranch house location, one can almost smell the biscuits, beans and jerky gravy that "Chicken Henry," the ranch’s renowned cook, fed them all each evening, and the peach cobbler he prepared for dessert.
101 Easy Street, Carefree, AZ 85377 VisitCarefree.com f ebruary 2018
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Cowboys rounded up and branded the large herd, then led them south on Scottsdale Road—then, a narrow dirt pathway—toward the stockyards. It’s not difficult to imagine the thick cloud of dust as the herd, moaning its lows and bellows, paraded through the otherwisesolitary desert. E.O. Brown’s son, E.E., or "Brownie” as he was known, was tall, sturdy and wore an intimidating Colt .45 that likely settled many an argument. It’s still rumored that John Wayne, who grew up far from ranch life in Southern California, copied many of Brownie’s traits to become the iconic on-screen American cowboy. It was Brownie who built the tworoom ranch to share with his wife Goldie, parts of which still remain today. Like most ranchers, Brownie, who was deputized by the Maricopa County Sheriff, was a jack-of-alltrades. One of his most challenging jobs was protecting the pipelines, wells and windmills running across hundreds of acres of his land. Brownie and his men instilled their own Arizona justice on anyone messing with the water through “lead poisoning” via bullet. No questions were asked; as far as the law was concerned, justice had been served. Brownie died in 1966, but his legacy (and that of so many early Arizonans) remains, thanks to the McDowell Sonoran Preserve.
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An exhibit open through May at Brown’s Ranch Trailhead tells much of the story of Brown’s Ranch and other now-historical faces and places. Arizona Historical Society has played a major role in preserving the state’s history and telling its unique story at the beautifully designed trailhead entrance. History in the Desert is the product of a year-long partnership between the Arizona Heritage Center and the 26-year-old McDowell Sonoran Conservancy, and includes photographs and relics from Arizona Historical Society collections showing ranching, mining, farming and other elements of our history. McDowell Sonoran Conservancy Pathfinder volunteers are present to help with interpretive exhibits and guidance Monday through Friday, 7 to 9 a.m., and Saturdays and Sundays from 7 to 11 a.m. The History in the Desert exhibit at the Brown’s Ranch Trailhead is an extension of a shared commitment to preservation, providing visitors of all ages an opportunity to learn about the important work being done by the Arizona Heritage Center, the Arizona Historical Society, and McDowell Sonoran Conservancy. It is part of a continuing effort to ensure that the echoes of our unique history can be heard for generations to come. mcdowellsonoran.org
Experience History in the Desert
Through May 2018 M-F, 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. Sat., Sun. 7 to 11 a.m. Brown’s Ranch Trailhead 30301 Alma School Rd, Scottsdale Free 480-312-3111 mcdowellsonoran.org f ebruary 2018
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Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly
These bite sized potato stackers are great as an appetizer or even a side dish! They’re cheesy, crispy and all around Fire-grilled chili lime delicious. shrimp are cradled in a bed of tangy red cabbage slaw and wrapped in a warm tortilla for a light, yet super satisfying dinner. Make extra, because these mouthwatering shrimp tacos go quickly.
Gruyere Stacked Potatoes Ingredients: 4 russet potatoes (look for skinnier-shaped potatoes) 1/2 c. cream 2 tbsp. butter 1/2 tsp. thyme or rosemary 1/4 tsp. minced garlic salt pepper 1 c. grated Gruyère (or any other melting cheese) Directions: Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Peel potatoes and slice to about 1/10-inch. I use a mandolin to make this part easy.
In a muffin pan, put three slices of potatoes in each compartment. Add grated cheese and about 1/2 teaspoon of the cream mixture. Add three more potato slices. Top with cheese and the rest of the cream mixture. Cover loosely with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil, add more cheese and bake for 10 more minutes until cheese is melted and edges begin to brown. Let cool for 5 minutes before removing from pan and serving. Chef’s Note: If you can’t find skinny potatoes, just pare down with a knife after peeling. Rosemary stems can be used as toothpicks to hold stackers together. kyndraclaire.com
In a small saucepan, combine cream, butter, thyme, garlic, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil and remove from heat.
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䌀伀䴀倀唀吀䔀刀 刀䔀倀䄀䤀刀 ☀ 匀䔀刀嘀䤀䌀䔀 一䔀吀圀伀刀䬀 匀唀倀倀伀刀吀 圀䔀䈀 䴀䄀刀䬀䔀吀䤀一䜀 ☀ 䐀䔀匀䤀䜀一 吀刀䄀䤀一䤀一䜀 ⴀ 倀攀爀猀漀渀愀氀 ☀ 䈀甀猀椀渀攀猀猀
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Citrus Cilantro Chicken This one pan chicken dish is refreshing and full of flavor. I love how the sauce bakes with the chicken and becomes a sticky glaze. It’s a yummy, quick dish for any night of the week!
Ingredients: 6 chicken thighs or breasts Sauce 4 limes, juiced 2 small lemons, juiced 1 orange, juiced 1/4 c. avocado oil (or olive oil) 1 tbsp. brown sugar 3 cloves minced garlic 1 tsp. red chile flakes 3–4 dashes hot sauce (like Cholula) 1/4 c. chopped cilantro *optional 1 tsp. cumin Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a medium-sized bowl, combine all sauce ingredients. Whisk well until all ingredients are combined. In a nonstick skillet, brown both sides of the chicken. Pour sauce over chicken and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Bake in oven for 15 to 20 minutes, or until chicken is done. Spoon sauce over chicken and serve. Chef’s Note: This is great served over rice, a salad, or just on its own! kyndraclaire.com
Writer and Photographer Kyndra Kelly
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