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ARIZONA FINE ART EXPO
NORTHERN EXPOSURE PHOTO ESSAY
CECILIA CALDERON
By Sue Kern-Fleischer
By Grace Hill
Photo by Loralei Lazurek
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COMMUNITY FINE ARTS
PEGGY PETTIGREW GLASS ARTIST
CARVING ARTISTS: STUDIO PALEO
By Grace Hill
By Shannon Severson
By Grace Hill
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January 2017
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PUBLISHER Shelly Spence
EDITOR/CONTRIBUTING WRITER Jenn Korducki Krenn
ASSISTANT EDITOR Janet Garner
ART DIRECTOR/PUBLISHER’S ASSISTANT
H
Happy New Year from our Images Arizona family to yours! Whether you’ve already made your resolutions or have resolved not to make a single one this year, I hope your 2017 is full of adventure, excitement and promise.
Jennifer Satterlee
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Ana Petrovic
STAFF WRITER Grace Hill
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Tom Scanlon Monica Longenbaker Gregory Granillo Shannon Severson Katherine Braden Lara Piu
As our magazine celebrates 18 years of publication, I find myself reflecting on how much we’ve grown up since our humble beginnings in 1999. It has been a true labor of love that has brought more joy and discovery than I could have ever imagined — much like raising a child into adulthood! We’ve grown from one region to four, from a circulation of 1,500 to 67,000. These days, 160,000 incredible readers flip through our pages every month. This past year brought a lot of new opportunities to flourish as we expanded into Paradise Valley, McCormick Ranch and Gainey Ranch. We added new team members, updated our layout design and brought in new features, including a monthly photo essay that highlights what it means to be Arizona proud.
PHOTOGRAPHERS Bryan Black Loralei Lazurek Keri Meyers Michele Celentano Monica Longenbaker
ADVERTISING SALES
Though we’re far from finished when it comes to our growth, there is a maturity about our finished product these days that only happens with nearly two decades of experience. And that makes me not only Arizona proud, but also Images Arizona proud. A big thanks to my talented staff, inspiring business partners and supportive readers, who make it all possible.
Loren Sheck Cheers!
Images Arizona P.O. Box 1416 Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com
Shelly Spence Publisher, Images Arizona magazine shelly@imagesaz.com 623-341-8221
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 © 2017 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.
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Local First A R I Z O NA
January 2017
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Writer Sue Kern-Fleischer
A
An accomplished painter who was legally blind as a child, a sculptor who is helping to transform a Mexican town into a thriving arts community, and a former fashion model whose ability to capture facial emotions of people and animals in her paintings is mesmerizing. These three artists — Travis Crowther, Jess Davila and Beth Hyatt — are coming together again this year to join their extended artist family for 10 weeks at Arizona Fine Art EXPO. Now in its 13th year, this popular event takes place from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily from January 13 through March 26 at 26540 N. Scottsdale Rd., on the southwest corner of Scottsdale and Jomax roads, next to MacDonald’s Ranch. This year’s event features 110 patron-friendly studios within a 44,000-square-foot space, where guests have a rare chance to meet the artists, see them in action and learn about their passion, inspiration and techniques. Patrons can stroll throughout a two-acre sculpture garden, which includes a koi pond with a waterfall and a hummingbird garden surrounded by natural desert. Never Taking His Vision for Granted Looking at Travis Crowther’s impressionistic paintings of rooftops in Florence, Italy or a New England harbor, it’s hard to imagine he had a baseball-size tumor behind his eye. Born and raised in rural Northern Utah, he was just 2 years old when both of his eyes were swollen shut. “Every doctor told my parents that such a risky surgery would kill me, and my father, a welder, was also concerned about the expense,” Crowther says.
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Fortunately, he had an uncle who was working for Mayo Clinic as a brain surgeon. “He referred us to a surgeon in Ogden who did the entire 13hour surgery for just $200,” he says.
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While surviving the surgery was a miracle, Crowther still had trouble seeing. In first grade, he couldn’t see the blackboard. At home, he’d sit very close to the television. It wasn’t until he was in second grade that his family learned he was legally blind, with minus 1200 vision in both eyes. “The Ogden doctor said the surgery did not affect my eyesight, but after that, I’d go regularly for checkups until I was 16 years old,” he explains. “I wore coke-bottle glasses throughout school and later, when I was in college, my eyes were always strained. I had to take a break from reading every 15 minutes. It felt like someone dumped sand in them.” Despite his vision challenges, Crowther was drawn to art. He started painting and drawing as a young child and won a scholarship to attend Utah State University after high school, but he had other plans. “I thought I was going to be a dentist,” he says. “I went to Weber State University for a year and then served a two-year mission in New England for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.” When he returned to Utah, he switched his major to art, graduating from Weber State University and then going on to complete his Master of Fine Arts degree at Utah State University. He spent the next 30 years teaching, traveling and painting. “I used to do a lot of watercolor paintings when I first started out, and then I moved to acrylics because they dry so fast,” he says. Now he prefers oil as his medium, and he paints on a linen canvas or metal surfaces, rather than a cotton canvas. “Linen is more durable,” he says. “Every painting is a challenge. I usually start sketching it out with paint and then go from there.” Crowther had Lasik eye surgery in 1999, and he is blessed to no longer struggle with eye strain. A resident of Pleasant View, Utah, he has participated in the Arizona Fine Art EXPO for 12 years. “It’s like a big family, and I’ve made a lot of good friends over the years, both clients and artists,” he says.
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“We’ve trained eight teachers from town and still have a lot more work to do. We hope to continue working with the construction of a dorm, where we can receive children and youngsters from elsewhere, and make this area a tourist destination where people can come, take art classes and enjoy the beautiful scenery the mountainous region has to offer.” Davila credits his relationships from Arizona Fine Art EXPO with helping him build the center.
A Dream Comes True Sculptor Jess Davila is also returning to the EXPO for his 12th year and shares Crowther’s sentiments regarding his fellow artists. “They really are like family — everyone helps each other,” the master sculptor of stone says. Davila spent his formative years in the beautiful state of Sonora, Mexico. He grew up exploring and appreciating the unspoiled beauty of the desert and mountainous regions of his homeland. For the past decade, he has been splitting his time between Scottsdale, Tucson and Huachinera in Sonora, where he founded the Centro Artistico y Cultural de Huachinera. The center sits on approximately 10 acres of land and has six buildings completed. Several hundred adults and students from the town and surrounding Sierra Madre region have taken a variety of art classes there, including painting, drawing, music, dance, theater, crafts, clay and stone sculpting. “This was my dream, and it’s really the children who keep me going,” he says, adding that the classes keep filling up.
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“From the beginning, many of the EXPO artists showed their support by donating their art pieces for fundraising events and even coming down to Huachinera to lend their help,” he says. “Some come every year to teach. My very dear friend and well-known EXPO artist, Guadalupe Apodaca, has been involved with me and the art center since the very beginning of this project. To this day, he is there when I need him or when the art center needs him. Like him, there are others from the EXPO family of artists who have always been involved, and to them and the Arizona Fine Art EXPO, I am forever grateful.” A self-taught artist, Davila is best known for his contemporary buffalo, bear, giraffe, eagle and figurative sculptures made from marble, alabaster, sandstone and limestone. Recently, he began creating javelina and abstract pieces using basalt. “I like experimenting with new material, and I’ve been doing more abstract pieces,” he says, adding that the fun lies in starting with a stone and determining what will come out of it. “I’ll turn the stone upside down, sideways and examine it all around before I start to chisel. I like to think I’m following Michelangelo’s lead by taking off sections to bring out the
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hidden beauty inside. To me there is something within each stone that needs to come out, and that could be anything!” Faces That Tell a Story Artist Beth Hyatt has been exhibiting her paintings at Arizona Fine Art EXPO for more than a decade. She, too, considers EXPO artists to be like family. “I just love doing the show,” she says. “The camaraderie can’t be beat, and sometimes, if I’m getting too close to my work, it’s helpful to receive suggestions from my peers. For 10 weeks, I’m surrounded by fantastic artists, and it’s an honor to be among them.” Now an Anthem resident, Hyatt grew up in Jacksonville, Illinois and loved drawing as a child. After graduation from high school, she moved to Chicago in pursuit of an art career at the Art Institute of Chicago, but was swept into the world of fashion, where she worked as a model. In 1988, she and a friend started Model Image Center to help new models learn everything from how to put makeup on to how to walk down the runway in front of the cameras. When she moved to Arizona in 2002, she started to draw again and took her first class in Scottsdale, not knowing what paints and brushes to use or even how to get started. Today, she is renowned for her portraits of people and animals. “I love faces and really enjoy capturing emotions through the eyes,” Hyatt says. “I find as much emotion in my animal portraits as I do in my human faces.” She paints in both oil and acrylic, sketching her subject first on the canvas with pencil. “The drawing is the mechanics of the painting,” she says. “I take a
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mixture of water and an acrylic medium to go over the graphite so it doesn’t get on the paint.” She works off of photographs, but emphasizes that she goes out of her way to make sure her paintings “are a bit off.” “I draw realistically, but I’m more playful with color, almost in an invisible way,” she says. This year, she’ll be exhibiting a new series of paintings featuring African people and animals. While she has never been to Africa, one of her artist friends at EXPO gave her some photos for inspiration. In addition, she often visits the Phoenix Zoo to study the facial features of some of her subjects, and she knows most of the animals there by name. Season passes for the Arizona Fine Art EXPO cost $10; season passes for seniors and military are $8; and children under 12 are free. Parking is also free. 480-837-7163 arizonafineartexpo.com
Arizona Musicfest Winter Festival: JAN 27 - MAR 10
THE MANHATTAN
A BAND CALLED
KRUGER BROTHERS
A BROADWAY
TRANSFER HONALEE KONTRAS QUARTET ROMANCE FRIDAY, FEB 3
THE 60’s OF PETER, PAUL & MARY
FRIDAY, FEB 10
AND
FRIDAY, FEB 13
FRIDAY, FEB 14
with the FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA
FRIDAY, FEB 23
CHAMBER PLAYERS BACH, MOZART, STRAVINSKY
FRIDAY, FEB 19
FEATURED ARTIST
MIDORI
BEETHOVEN’S
FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA TRIPLE CONCERTO
& SAINT SAEN’S ORGAN SYMPHONY FRIDAY, FEB 21
MUSICFEST LEGEND
ELLA AT 100! PAGLIACCI WE’VE ONLY with the FESTIVAL ORCHESTRA
FRIDAY, FEB 24
JUST BEGUN IN CONCERT THE CARPENTERS REMEMBERED FRIDAY, FEB 26
FRIDAY, MAR 2
MAVIS STAPLES FRIDAY, MAR 6
19 performances in North Scottsdale • 480.840.0457 •
DECADES OF DIVAS:
FROM BILLIE AND ARETHA TO CELINE AND BARBRA
FRIDAY, MAR 10
azmusicfest.org
January 2017
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COMMUNITY arts // announcements // culture Writer Grace Hill
JAN. 1
NEW YEAR’S TREASURE FEST Celebrate the new year by attending Magic Bird Festivals’ one-of-a-kind New Year’s Treasure Fest. The event showcases 70 local artists and vendors and features an eclectic collection of boutique apparel, jewelry designs, original art, Native American crafts and gourmet packaged edibles. Event attendees are also invited to relax at the Cave Creek Roadhouse, which offers classic American fare and a fullservice bar in a casual dining environment. Free. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cave Creek Roadhouse, 6900 E. Cave Creek Rd., 480-488-2014, carefreeazfestivals.com.
JAN. 1-17
CALL FOR ARTISTS: ART IN PUBLIC PLACES EXHIBIT
JAN. 6
Artists are invited to submit artwork for the Sonoran Arts League’s Art in Public Places program, a rotating exhibit that the Gallery at Desert Foothills
HCC’S INTRODUCTION TO WATERCOLORS
Library, the Gallery at el Pedregal
In this four-week course titled
and in the towns of Cave Creek
“An Introduction to Watercolors,”
and Anthem. The next juried
class attendees will explore
exhibit will be displayed at the
materials and techniques used in
Anthem Civic Building beginning
watercolor painting; learn about
January 27. To submit, artists
types of watercolor paper, paints
must be 18 years or older and
and brushes; and will practice
located in Anthem or any North
with different brush strokes and
Valley location. There is a $25
techniques. Materials will be
non-refundable entry fee for
provided for this class. $125
submissions, which can be made
registration cost; $5 material
via the Sonoran Arts League
charge per class. 9 a.m. to 12
website. Jury day is January 19.
p.m. FCF-Holland Community
Sonoran Arts League, 480-575-
Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Bldg. B,
6624, sonoranartsleague.org.
480-488-1090, azfcf.org.
moves throughout the year to
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PROMUSICA ARIZONA CHORALE AND ORCHESTRA AUDITIONS ProMusica will be holding auditions for both the Chorale and Orchestra. Vocalists need to read music, have choral singing experience and prepare a one-minute song. Instrumentalists need to have an intermediate/advanced skill level and prepare a one-minute piece. Accompanist will be provided for vocalists and instrumentalists. For an audition appointment, contact Patti Graetz at pgraetz@pmaz.org. 7-9 p.m. Crosswinds Presbyterian Church, 20125 N. 15th Ave., 623-3265172, pmaz.org. Photo courtesy of ProMusica Arizona
JAN. 3-27
NEW ART SHOW AT THE HOLLAND GALLERY OF FINE ART The Mountain Top Experience art show displaying abstract paintings will reopen on January 3 after closing for the holidays. This show features a fourperson exhibition by Karen Brace Adams, Dennis Kleidon, Elizabeth Moore and Judith Visker. On January 14, the public is invited to attend the artists’ reception from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Gallery hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Holland Gallery of Fine Art, 34250 N. 60th St., Bldg. B, 480-488-1090, azfcf.org.
JAN. 8
CATHERINE JONES, A PISTOL PACKING MOMMA Come to Cave Creek Museum’s Family Fun Workshop and learn about the unofficial “Queen of Cave Creek,” Catherine Jones. While serving as a deputy game warden in the 1920s and homesteading the 1,280acre Cahava Ranch, she also spent her time as an artist and poetess. This workshop includes activities of Cave Creek life in the 1920s. Free with admission. See website for admission prices. 1:30-3 p.m. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Dr., 480-4882764, cavecreekmuseum.org.
Something New
January 2017
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JAN. 10-APR. 30 THE ARTISTS OF TAOS EXHIBITION
The public is invited to Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West’s exhibition, “The Artists of Taos.” Presented by Scottsdale Art Auction, this exhibition highlights the careers and artwork of the Taos Society of Artists and features their best works. Free with admission. See website for admission prices. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Scottsdale’s Museum of the West, 3830 N. Marshall Way, 480-686-9539, scottsdalemuseumwest.org.
Cultural Events JAN. 11
ARIZONA ARCHAEOLOGY SOCIETY MEETING The first society meeting of the new year features Carrie Calisay Cannon, who has a bachelor’s degree in wildlife biology and a master’s in resource management, and is a member of Oklahoma’s Kiowa tribe with Oglala Lakota descent. She will present “Plants, Inspiring the People: Reflections on Hualapai Ethnobotany of the Grand Canyon.” The public is welcomed at all Arizona Archaeology Society: Desert Foothills Chapter meetings. Free. 7:30-9 p.m. Reception at 7 p.m. Good Shepherd of the Hills Episcopal Church, 6502 E. Cave Creek Rd., azarchsoc.org/desertfoothills.
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JAN. 12-25
ERICA VHAY EXHIBITION: 6TH AND MAIN Arizona artist Erica Vhay will debut her “6th and Main� exhibition at The Marshall Gallery of Fine Art during the January 12 Scottsdale ArtWalk. With a history in various art forms, Vhay now skillfully creates expressive figurative and cityscape paintings. 7-9 p.m. The Marshall Gallery of Fine Art, 7106 E. Main St., 480-970-3111, themarshallgallery.com.
JAN. 13-15
FOUNTAIN HILLS SCULPTURE AND WINE FESTIVAL Another great show from Thunderbird Artists will bring more than 60 acclaimed sculptors to Fountain Hills to showcase works comprised of bronze, stone, copper, clay, wood, metal, glass, gourd, steel, found objects and mixed media. The event will include wine tasting and delicious food from vendors and surrounding restaurants. The host charity for this event is the International Cancer Advocacy Network. Adult tickets (18 and over): $3; wine tasting (6 tickets): $10. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fountain Hills Fountain, 16810 E. Avenue of the Fountains, 480-837-5637, thunderbirdartists.com.
Fountain Hills
Indian Market Southwest Art Festival A N D
January 28 - 29, 2017 Saturday and Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. FREE ADMISSION
Native American Art Hoop Dancing & Fancy Dancing Live Music & Flavorful Food Avenue of the Fountains 16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains Fountain Hills, AZ 85268 Featuring World Champion Hoop Dancer Brian Hammill magicbirdfestivals.com
|
480-488-2014
January 2017
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JAN. 10 ZUVA GALLERY’S ISAAC CHOLOKA EXHIBIT
JAN. 13-22
DESERT FOOTHILLS THEATER PRESENTS ALL SHOOK UP
KENT CAMERATA AT CTL Come enjoy wonderful music at
The Eight Powerful Sculptures
Desert Foothills Theater
Christ the Lord Lutheran Church.
Exhibit by Isaac Choloka will
presents “All Shook Up,” a
The Kent Camerata, a vocal
showcase one of Africa's most
youth production that tells
and instrumental international
talented stone sculptors. These
the story of a guitar-playing
touring ensemble, will perform
beautiful creations will be on
roustabout who changes a little
unique arrangements of voice
display at Zuva Gallery from
town in 1955. With songs like
with viola, bassoon and piano.
January 10 through February
“Heartbreak Hotel,” “Jailhouse
Don’t miss out on the beautiful
30. South African wine and
Rock” and “Don’t Be Cruel,”
performance. 4 p.m. Christ the
delicious hors d’oeuvres will
audience members will enjoy
Lord Lutheran Church, 9205 E.
be served during the opening
every second of this fun
Cave Creek Rd., 480-488-2081,
event on January 10. 5:30-8:30
musical. Adult tickets: $16-$21;
ctlcarefree.org.
p.m. Zuva Gallery, Please RSVP
youth tickets: $14-$16. Fridays
to tom@zuvagallery.com. 8900
and Saturdays: 7 p.m.; Sundays:
E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Ste. C,
2 p.m. Cactus Shadows Fine
480-488-6000, zuvagallery.com.
Arts Center's Black Box Theater, 33606 N. 60th St., 480-488-
Photo by Bryan Black
1981, dftheater.org.
*Stone Owls by Tariro Mashaire; Zimbabwe, Africa. Available at zuvagallery.com
JAN. 14
CAREFREE DESERT GARDENS WELCOMES GREG STARR Author, speaker and agave specialist Greg Starr, owner and operator of Tucson’s Starr Nursery, will be the guest speaker for the first program during the winter 2017 season at the Carefree Desert Gardens. Greg will speak on agaves; specifically, how to plant and care for them to ensure success and companion plantings. A plant raffle will be included in the program. Plants will also be available for purchase. Seating is limited. $5 or more donation. 9:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. The Speakeasy on Easy Street, 100 Easy St., 480-488-3686.
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JAN. 14
Fine Art
I M AG E S A R I Z O N A . C OM January 2 017
JAN. 14, 15, 21, 22
BUTTERFLY WONDERLAND’S NATIVE AMERICAN CULTURAL EXPERIENCE DAYS Join Butterfly Wonderland during their Native American Cultural Experience Days, which allow guests to experience special storytelling and entertainment. The month also includes free face painting every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and caricatures in the courtyard every other Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. beginning on January 14. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Butterfly Wonderland, 9500 E.
Via de Ventura, 480-800-3000, butterflywonderland.com.
January 2017
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Art Experience
JAN. 14, 23
ROBERTA KRITZIA EXHIBITION
The Holland Gallery of Fine Art proudly showcases the work of classical artist Roberta Kritzia, who creates one-of-a-kind art pieces using oil, pastel, pen, ink and mixed media that represent her travels in Europe over the past 31 summers. A reception
JAN. 20-22
CAREFREE FINE ART AND WINE FESTIVAL
JAN. 14, 15, 22, 29
ARIZONA BACH FESTIVAL The 8th annual Arizona Bach Festival will feature wonderful performances of the rich music of Johann Sebastian Bach by top artists and instrumentalists. The Arizona Bach Festival is led by founder and artistic director Scott Youngs. The performances will be split between two locations: Central United Methodist Church and All Saints’ Episcopal Church. Single ticket: $23 in advance, $25 at the door; student ticket: $15 at the door with valid ID. arizonabachfestival.org.
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Produced by Thunderbird Artists, the 24th annual Carefree Fine Art and Wine Festival will feature more than 165 award-winning fine artists, including featured artist Terry Meyer. The event will also include live music by Moodafaruka, pianist Brandon Gaesser, Chapman Stick artist Bob Culbertson, guitarist and songwriter Nina Curry, and Whiskey Kiss. A huge selection of domestic and imported wines will be available for tasting. Admission: $3; wine tasting (6 tickets): $10; additional wine tickets: $1. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Downtown Carefree, 101 Easy St., 480-837-5637, thunderbirdartists.com. *Terry Meyer's "Up Front" pictured.
will be held on January 14 from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Then Roberta will present a lecture titled “A Life of Art and Travel” on January 23 at 3:30 p.m., with a cost of $12 per ticket. Holland Gallery of Fine Art, 34250 N. 60th St., Bldg. B, 480-488-1090, azfcf.org.
JAN. 21
CAVE CREEK MUSEUM’S ANTIQUE APPRAISAL DAY Appraiser Sean Morton, a member of the Antiques Appraisal Association of America, will examine treasures, discuss their origins and assess their value. Morton has more than 20 years of experience in the fine arts and antiques field. Please note, there is a limit of two items per person, per session. Attending more than one session is allowed. $20 per item. 9:30 am to 4:30 p.m. Cave Creek Museum, 6140 E. Skyline Dr., 480-488-2764, cavecreekmuseum.org.
JAN. 21
HITLER’S ART THIEF AT THE DESERT FOOTHILLS LIBRARY Hear Mary F. Cook, awardwinning author and international lecturer, speak of an amazing story about the 1,400 paintings worth $1.4 billion that were recovered in an 83-yearold recluse’s home. Find out how this man came to have these paintings, which were originally plundered for Hitler. Cook has focused 30 years of research on the subject of art theft, including the Nazi plundered art of World War II. Free. 10:30-11:30 a.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Rd., 480-488-2286, desertfoothillslibrary.org.
JAN. 24
FOOTHILLS ACADEMY COLLEGE PREPARATORY OPEN HOUSE Foothills Academy College Preparatory is adding a state-of-the-art STEAM lab on their North Scottsdale campus, thanks to funding provided by the Kiwanis Club of Carefree. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) is a curriculum that teaches students how to become producers and not just consumers, as well as teaching them to make deep connections across multiple disciplines. The new STEAM lab provides students with access to 3-D printers, KEVA planks, littleBits, mechanics tools, virtual stimulation and bioengineering and design process. The open house will be from 5-6:30 p.m. at both the elementary and college preparatory campuses. Foothills Academy, 7191 E. Ashler Hills Dr., 480-488-5583, foothillsacademy.com. January 2017
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JAN. 27-MAR. 10
JAN. 27
The 26th annual Arizona
The Car Corral and Swap
ARIZONA MUSICFEST WINTER FESTIVAL
Musicfest Winter Festival is here once again and will delight audience members all over. The festival opens on January 27 with Grammy Award-winning trumpet sensation Chris Botti, and will go until March 10 with Decades of Divas: From Billie and Aretha to Celine and Barbra. There will be other performances by Manhattan Transfer, Cantus, Midori, Mavis Staples and Patti Austen with the Festival Orchestra. Check website for ticket prices, show times and locations. Arizona
CAR CORRAL AND SWAP MEET Meet, sponsored by Knights of Columbus, Our Lady of Joy, Hagerty Insurance and Core Fitness, makes for the perfect place to sell or buy a vehicle with no sales tax, an up-close vehicle inspection and a safe and friendly location. Registration proceeds go to the OLOJ preschool and other charities. Free admission. To sell: $45 for single show space; $100 for four shows. 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Our Lady of Joy Catholic Church, 36811 N. Pima Rd., 480-488-2229,
Musicfest, 480-840-0457,
carcorralscottsdale.com.
azmusicfest.org.
JAN. 28
*Grammy Award winning musicican Chris Botti pictured.
DOGGIE STREET FESTIVAL The 2nd annual Doggie Street Festival Dog and Cat Adopt-AThon and Companion Animal Celebration invites the public to enjoy a day dedicated to our furry friends. The event will include animal adoption, shopping deals and samples from pet specialty vendors, music, food, auction prizes and more. Pets are welcome to attend with their companions. Free admission. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Steele Indian School Park, 300 E. Indian School Rd., doggiestreetfestival.org.
JAN. 28
HEALTH AND RESOURCES EXPO 2017 Bring the family out to the Health and Resources Expo and connect with more than 40 local health and wellness resources. The expo offers education and activities for all ages, including
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interactive demonstrations, speakers, pneumonia and flu immunizations from Walgreen’s, fitness activities and much more. A food truck will offer some healthy lunch options. Free. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center, 33606 N. 60th St., 480-488-1105, foothillscaringcorps.com.
JAN. 28-29
INAUGURAL FOUNTAIN HILLS INDIAN MARKET AND CULTURAL FESTIVAL Magic Bird Festivals presents the first-ever Fountain Hills Indian Market and Cultural Festival, a Southwest-inspired, family-friendly show featuring 100 arts and crafts exhibitors. In addition to the amazing art, the event will include local food vendors, live music, traditional hoop-dancing performances and much more. Free. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fountain Hills Fountain, 16705 E. Avenue of the Fountains, 480-488-2014, carefreeazfestivals.com.
FEB. 7
DESERT FOOTHILLS WOMAN’S CLUB ANNUAL FUNDRAISER Mark your calendar for the Desert Foothills Woman’s Club’s fundraising event, The Big Easy. This fun Mardi Gras night will include live music, dancing, food, silent auction and a cash raffle. All proceeds will benefit student scholarships and local area nonprofit organizations. Seating is limited. $75. 5-9:30 p.m. The Speakeasy on Easy Street, 100 Easy St. Contact Barbara McKenney at 602-4030698 or Vivian Florit at 602432-8228.
January 2017
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Announcements
ARIZONA GOLF HALL OF FAME INDUCTS DICK HYLAND On November 22, the director of golf at The Country Club at DC Ranch, Dick Hyland, was inducted into the Arizona Golf Hall of Fame during the induction ceremony at Paradise Valley Country Club. The selection committee of the Arizona Golf Hall of Fame chose Hyland not only for his passion for the game of golf, but also for his outstanding leadership, his strong moral character and his work in implementing and managing golf courses over his 30 years in the golf industry. For more information, visit ccdcranch.com.
DESERT SUN ACADEMY LAUNCHES FRENCH IMMERSION PROGRAM school in the Cave Creek Unified
ARIZONA DUAL-LANGUAGE IMMERSION PROGRAM WELCOMES MORE THAN 40 EDUCATORS
School District, has launched a
On December 5 at Horseshoe
new French immersion program
Trails Elementary School, more
in its kindergarten and first
than 40 educators from other
grades. For the 2016-17 school
Arizona language immersion
year, the program will be in
schools participated in a
second grade, as well. The
Chinese and Spanish immersion
program is the first of its kind
observation day. As the first
in Arizona public schools and
school on the tour, educators
supports the belief that early
watched Horseshoe Trails
language learning benefits
kindergarten students receive
the brain in multiple ways.
math instruction in Mandarin
For more information about
Chinese, first and second grade
Desert Sun Academy and the
students learn in Mandarin, and
French immersion program, visit
eighth grade Spanish immersion
ccusd93.org.
students who have already
Desert Sun Academy, a K-6
THE J’S GALA HONORS BILL LEVINE On November 19 at the Arizona Biltmore, more than 750 people attended the Valley of the Sun Jewish Community Center (also known as The J) gala to honor Bill Levine. After accepting the honor, Levine spoke about the importance of The J and then thanked his family and friends for their support in his life. The from across the country and the Valley, including celebrity
Congratulations to Dr. Debbi
Jason Alexander, who provided
Burdick, Cave Creek Unified
some of the entertainment
School District superintendent,
for the night. Former 12News
who was named Outstanding
anchor Lin Sue Cooney emceed
Community Leader because of
the evening, as well. The gala
her collaboration with Paradise
raised more than $1.2 million
Valley Community College and
for The J and its programs.
Cactus Shadows High School.
Afterward, major donors and
The ceremony took place at
sponsors were invited to a VIP
PVCC’s 7th annual Celebrate
reception with Alexander. For
Paradise reception, which
more information on The J,
honors education excellence
visit vosjcc.org.
within the community. For more
event brought together people
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achieved high levels of Spanish
CCUSD SUPERINTENDENT NAMED COMMUNITY LEADER
Pictured: Susan and Bill Levine I M AG E S A R I Z O N A . C OM January 2 017 enjoying themselves.
information, visit ccusd93.org.
proficiency. Through this tour, the educators will deepen their understanding of how young children acquire academic content and a new language.
the art of organization
Home Offices
Home Offices
Entertainment Centers
Entertainment Centers
480-998-2070 www.closetfactory.com
www.facebook.com/closetfactory
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closets | garages | home offices | entertainment centers | pantries | wall units wall beds | craft rooms | laundry rooms | mud rooms | wine rooms ©2016 Closet Factory. All rights reserved. ROC#175443 January 2017
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Congratulations!
PROMUSICA ARIZONA TO PERFORM AT CARNEGIE HALL ProMusica Arizona will perform
AZUL-VERDE DESIGN GROUP RECEIVES TOP AWARDS
in the Masterwork Series at
In November, Azul-Verde
on April 24, 2017. This special
Design Group won six design/ build awards during the annual Arizona Landscape Contractors Association awards program. The group won awards for local residential projects around the North and Northeast Valley. Their project, west of the Creek, took home the Presidential Award, the top award for the night. At the beginning of the year, they also won the Honor Award at the American Society of Landscape Architects awards program.
Carnegie Hall in New York City invitation allows ProMusica Arizona to join a festival chorus of singers from across the United States for a threeday residency program. The final performance will include a nationally-recognized guest conductor in Carnegie Hall’s famous Isaac Stern Auditorium. ProMusica Arizona Chorale and Orchestra includes 100 singers and instrumentalists ranging in age from late teens to mid-80s, and has performed more than 150 times. For more information
Azul-Verde Design Group
about ProMusica Arizona, call
practices landscape architecture
623-326-5172 or visit pmaz.org.
and general contracting. They more than 20 years. For more
VISIT SCOTTSDALE’S ASADERO COCINA + CANTINA
information, call 480-595-0611
Come taste some delicious
or visit azulverde.com.
Southwestern cuisine at Asadero
have been in Cave Creek for
Cocina + Cantina, located at the DoubleTree Resort by Hilton Hotel Paradise Valley. The restaurant boasts of craft cocktails featuring infused spirits or concocted housemade syrups; signature breakfast menu items like chilaquiles or tres leches French toast; lunch specialties such as cuminroasted eggplant wrap or grilled ham and green chile cream cheese sandwich; and dinner favorites that include braised short rib with green chile mac and cheese or scallop and shrimp Veracruz. The restaurant is chef-driven by DoubleTree’s executive chef Don Molinich. For more information, visit asaderococina.com.
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SCOTTSDALE TEEN NAMED MISS MARICOPA COUNTY OUTSTANDING TEEN Ela Wootton, a junior at Notre Dame Preparatory, earned the title of Miss Maricopa County Outstanding Teen on November 12. Wootton, who serves as a speech coach for Best Buddies Ambassadors Program, an organization that builds friendships between people
with and without intellectual and developmental disabilities, plans to raise awareness for the program. Wootton is a member of the NDP varsity pom team, an honor student and an accomplished pianist. In June, she will attend the Miss Arizona Outstanding Teen scholarship pageant at the Mesa Arts Center. Congratulations, Ela! For more information on NDP, visit ndpsaints.org.
HANCE PARK CONSERVANCY’S NOCHE EN BLANCO More than 800 people dressed in white attire attended Hance Park Conservancy’s first Noche en Blanco at Margaret T. Hance Park in downtown Phoenix. The event served as the kickoff for a crowdfunding campaign to benefit the future Hance
event included remarks and a toast led by Inger Erickson, City of Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department director; live performances by local musicians; and a skateboarding demonstration by Cowtown and Skate After School. For more information on Hance Park Conservancy, visit hanceparkconservancy.org.
Park Skatepark. The sold-out January 2017
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N
Nestled in the high Sonoran Desert mountains of Cave Creek, The Spa at Rancho Mañana brings a sophisticated repose to the Valley. Situated inside the pueblo-style Rancho Mañana Resort, the spa echoes their invitation to enjoy a quaint hideaway where one can relax and reconnect in a serene atmosphere. As a full-service day spa, guests will not only experience the luxuries of a high-end spa, but also be reminded of the radiance particular to the Arizona desert.
styles and trends distinct to other parts of the country and world, Ian’s love and pride for the high Sonoran Desert has inspired him to embrace the current design, which seamlessly and beautifully blends into its surrounding desert landscape. This has created a spa that serves its guests in a way that feels like a continuation of the flavor of the surrounding area and therefore can truly provide a deep relaxation away from hectic lifestyles.
After opening in 2008, The Spa at Rancho Mañana fell into hardship when a flood caused major water damage to the property and forced the original owner to close its doors. With time, The Spa at Rancho Mañana reopened the day after Thanksgiving 2015, and was recently purchased by the new owner, Ian McCallister, in October 2016.
Many services fill the menu at The Spa at Rancho Mañana, including massages, facials, nails, eyelash extensions, waxing and permanent makeup. Even within these services, guests will find a reflection of Ian’s love for Arizona. The spa offers a one-of-a-kind Rancho Mañana golf ball massage, which ties in with the Rancho Mañana Golf Club located at the resort. The use of golf balls versus hot stones allows the massage therapist to penetrate deeper into pressure
While many spas around the Valley attempt to channel
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points and helps provide a more therapeutic session. In addition, Tempe’s Skin Script and Scottsdale’s PCA Skin, both local Arizona beauty brands, expertly provide restorative facials much needed in the dry desert climate. And Arizona renowned permanent makeup specialist, Yana, demonstrates the natural world by skillfully applying undetectable permanent makeup that bridges the gap between looking washed out and completely made up. The Spa at Rancho Mañana also boasts of a unique feature, the serene Kiva Room. While traditional kivas were used by ancient Puebloans for religious rituals and political meetings, this modern Kiva Room invites guests to let go and reconnect before and after any of their services. In addition, the spa includes a couple’s room and retail area. There, guests can purchase Arizona-inspired wearable art and luxurious body products to bring home and continue the spa experience. While the look, feel and services of the spa allow for a truly special getaway from one’s daily life, the excellent customer service adds the final important touch to The Spa at Rancho Mañana. From the owner who actively works on the premises every day to the dedicated staff who gladly accommodate guests’ specific requests, the focus of the spa always magnifies the Old West’s principle of taking care of one another like family. This new year, resolve to go through each day with a sense of calm and serenity. Let The Spa at Rancho Mañana help you do this by making you feel refreshed and centered through one of its many impressive spa services. As a high Sonoran Desert spa skilled in taking care of its guests, there can be no better time than now to schedule an appointment. All new clients receive $20 off their first service (not combined with any other offer). The Spa at Rancho Mañana 5720 E. Rancho Manana Blvd. Cave Creek, 85331 480-550-9521 studiocsalonsaz.com
*This advertorial brought to you by The Spa at Rancho Mañana January 2017
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Writer Grace Hill Photographers Herb Cover, Robert Elenbaas and Bob Miller
H
How did you spend 2016? Did you complete all those ambitious New Year’s resolutions? Did the year go by with you proudly checking off a list of must-do activities? More specifically, did you make time to travel across Arizona to explore the countless natural marvels that scatter this beautiful state? Residents of the Valley are often the last ones to visit what sits right in their backyard. With tourist destinations so close, it can be easy to say, “I’ll see that tomorrow.” But many tomorrows pass by with those sights left unseen. Let 2017 be the year you spend exploring the state in which you live. Make a bucket list of the places to see in Arizona and then do everything in your power to see them. You won’t regret it! Not sure where to start? Here’s a list of our favorite Northern Arizona locations. Don’t waste a moment. Plan your trip today.
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Sedona As one of the most stunning locations in the United States, Sedona should be the first stop on your trip up north. Located south of Flagstaff and at an elevation of 4,500 feet, the intense red-rock buttes will amaze visitors, both returning and new. As the sun’s rays shine upon these beautiful rock formations, orange and red hues burst from the rocks, becoming a sight that takes your breath away. In addition to the red rocks, visitors will find all sorts of activities in and around Sedona. Whether you hike a trail, take a pink Jeep tour, enjoy the various stores on Main Street or admire the Chapel of the Holy Cross and its unique location, Sedona will make for an unforgettable trip.
Photo by Robert Elenbaas January 2017
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Photo by Herb Cover
Grand Canyon After leaving Sedona, the next place you’ll need to head to is the Grand Canyon. As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Grand Canyon doesn’t just need to be seen — it has to be seen. You have no excuse.
Photo by Bob Miller
Photo by Herb Cover
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With a length of 277 river miles, a width of 18 miles and depth of 1 mile, you can’t possibly see all of this massive canyon. A trip to the Grand Canyon will leave you in awe of its magnificence. Whether you are visiting the year-round tourist destination of the South Rim or the more exclusive side (and closed during winter months) of the North Rim, maybe this year, you’ll not only make the journey to the canyon, but also hike down into it.
Herb Cover Hometown: Boston Current: North Scottsdale Photography experience: "Photography has been a major part of my life for the past 25 years. I enjoy photographing whatever catches my eye, be it landscape, flowers, people or anything that seems to appeal to me. I try to convey the essence of that moment when I release the shutter. I feel that this process has allowed me to both capture that moment in time, as well as communicate my creative observations to others." Between Sedona, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley, which would be your favorite location and why? “This is a very hard question to answer. However, I am going to cheat and say that both Sedona and Monument Valley are my favorites. In both locations, the light and weather can result in a completely different photo. The colorful rocks and their formations make for a dramatic scene. Clouds, snow, rain and lightning are just a few of the combinations of Mother Nature that contribute to my enjoyment of these two places.” Why should photographers continue to capture the beauty of Arizona when photographed countless times? “This question is very easy. Because of the light and change of weather conditions, all of my favorite locations can look different from the many thousands of photos that have been taken over the years. Dust formations in Antelope Canyon are unique every time. So, enjoy the variations that life brings and try to capture that moment in time.” 480-250-7769 herbcover.com
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Robert Elenbaas Hometown: Raised in California; working years in Kansas City, Missouri Current: Anthem Photography experience: A dedicated amateur who developed a serious interest in landscape photography as an extension of his wilderness backpacking experiences. Photography niche: “Landscape. I am frequently awed by both the literal and abstract beauty created by nature’s shapes, textures, colors and tones. My hope is that my photography is able to share with others at least some of that awe.” Between Sedona, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley, which would be your favorite location and why? “Wow, a tough decision! But if I were forced to choose, I would opt for Sedona, the Oak Creek area, because of the variety of subjects it provides. Grand vistas to very tight shots. The amazing red rocks to a perennial stream. Four seasons that provide for spring and summer flowers, fall colors and winter snow.” Why should photographers continue to capture the beauty of Arizona when photographed countless times? “Because every time out is a chance to make it your own. For example, on the evenings that I captured these Sedona and Grand Canyon images, I was the only photographer there. Although many people have taken photographs from these same locations at other times, no one has taken this photograph.”
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Antelope Canyon The next stop on your Northern Arizona tour should be Antelope Canyon, located on Navajo land east of Page. As a slot canyon formed by water rushing through rock, Antelope Canyon boasts a larger depth than width, making it an unmatched experience. The Upper Antelope Canyon and Lower Antelope Canyon both offer photographers a view worth capturing. However, the upper section provides visitors with an easier entrance into the canyon because it requires no climbing and offers better sunlight. The lower section, while just as beautiful, makes for a more challenging hike and has less natural light.
Photo by Robert Elenbaas
Photo by Herb Cover Photo by Bob Miller January 2017
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Monument Valley Last but not least on your list of places to see should be Monument Valley — the iconic image of the West and a sacred place for the Navajo people. With sandstone masterpieces that soar into the sky at heights of 400 to 1,000 feet, this view must be seen at least once in your lifetime. Located on the Arizona-Utah border, visitors have the option of touring Monument Valley in two ways. You can pay a fee and take a two to three-hour drive through the park, or join a guided tour and experience specific places like Mystery Valley and Hunts Mesa.
Photography experience: "Over 30 years as a professional photographer starting as a graphic designer. Accomplished in Portrait, Scenic, Landscape, Sports, Travel, Architectural & Product. I've said on occasion the only areas of photography I'm not familiar with are Aerial & Underwater." Photography niche: "With a long career in photography I can say I really don't have a niche. An average week might include shooting website images for a high-end resort, doing promotional portraits for a law firm or sports action from the sidelines of a football game. I spent May 2016 shooting a wedding in Ethiopia for an International client." Between Sedona, Grand Canyon, Antelope Canyon and Monument Valley, which would be your favorite location and why? "Well, they all have their own charms. If I had to pick I'd say the Grand Canyon due to the fact that you could live multiple lifetimes and never repeat a composition. The options are endless."
Bob Miller Hometown: Boise, Idaho Current: Gilbert, Arizona
Why should photographers continue to capture the beauty of Arizona when photographed countless times? “For many reasons. To try a new technique, try some night photography if you had previously shot during daylight hours, and differing weather conditions to name a few. Just being outdoors in a beautiful location should be enough of a reason in itself." 602-614-0514 bobmillerphoto.com
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Meet Artists Working in Studios 480-837-7163 ArizonaFineArtEXPO.com 26540 N Scottsdale Rd January 13 - March 26 10-week Season Pass $10; Military/Seniors $8 • Open Daily 10-6
Photos by Bob Miller
While 2016 might not have been the year you traveled across Arizona, the good news about years is that a new one will most certainly come. So make 2017 the year you enjoy one of the most diverse and stunning states that this country has to offer. Share your favorite Northern Arizona experiences with our Images Arizona Facebook or Instagram pages using the hashtag, #iamAZproud and #imagesAZ. facebook.com/imagesaz instagram.com/imagesaz
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D
During this year's Prickly Pedal, experienced mountain bikers from all over the country will once again race across the challenging 40-mile course on the Maricopa Trail. After last year's successful inaugural race brought more than 300 riders to the Valley, even more racers are expected to return this year and attempt the rocky climbs and aggressive ascents that weave throughout the northernmost part of the trail. Scheduled for January 21, the event begins with an energizing meal for racers courtesy of Hickman’s Egg Ranch. The mountain bike race will then commence at 8:30 a.m. with a rolling start at Cave Creek’s Flat Tire Bike Shop, and continue into Spur Cross Ranch Conservation Area. Fans, family, friends and the community will cheer on the participants, 13 years and older, who excitedly pedal their way to an awesome outdoor adventure. As competitors race against one another, they will soon find themselves competing against the challenging desert terrain. Rocks, sand, water and mud will all attempt to throw the racers from their bikes. If those don’t do it, the roller coaster runs and steep rock climbs and descents will try to do so. Some dismounting will be
Adventure Prickly Pedal
Writer Grace Hill Photos by Princely Durai
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Flat Tire Bike Shop Starts at 8:30 a.m. Must be 13 years or older to race. Register online Online registration closes January 18 at 9 p.m.
required, as racers will hike on foot where their bikes cannot take them. This course makes for a fun journey, albeit a tough one. It’s a trip that eventually takes riders all the way from the starting line in Cave Creek to the finishing line at Lake Pleasant in Peoria. Most racers will take about four to five hours to complete the 40-mile course. To give competitors much-needed energy to finish the race, two aid stations with water, sports drinks, fruit and GU products will be available on the course. To celebrate the achievement of all who participated, competitors, fans and volunteers are invited to attend the after party from noon to 6 p.m. at Lake Pleasant Regional Park. Exhausted racers can relax during the party, which will include an award ceremony, refreshments, raffle, beer garden and live music. Racers can store
their bikes in a secure bike corral during the party, while a shuttle will return racers to their vehicles in Cave Creek afterward. Proceeds from the Prickly Pedal support the Maricopa Trail and Park Foundation, a nonprofit organization that dedicates itself to protecting, promoting, developing and maintaining the Maricopa Regional Trail System. The Maricopa Trail measures 315 miles long and connects the 10 regional parks of Maricopa County. For those eager to attempt this one-ofa-kind race, online registration closes on January 18 at 9 p.m. All registrants will receive a race T-shirt, water bottle and promotional items, which can be picked up at the expo located at the Flat Tire Bike Shop on January 20. pricklypedal.com
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Writer Grace Hill Photographer Loralei Lazurek
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A
At one point during our interview, Peggy Pettigrew Stewart pinches herself as she recounts her journey as an artist. She still cannot believe it. Because living a life as a professional glass artist wasn’t always a part of her plan. In fact, prior to a full-time career in art, Valley resident Peggy owned a successful car rental company — an accomplishment that gave her joy and purpose. It wasn’t until she received a cancer diagnosis in 1998 that she was suddenly placed on a new path in life. Thankfully, after a difficult year of chemo and radiation, Peggy beat cancer. But she was now a new person whose recovering body could no longer keep up with the demands belonging to an active, self-employed businesswoman. “When I was recuperating from cancer, I couldn’t do anything and I was so bored,” Peggy says. “I started stringing beads.” Then, after receiving advice from her husband’s co-worker, she was inspired to make her own glass beads and signed up for classes. However, bead making wasn’t her cup of tea. She hated the open flame of the torch (thanks in part to growing up with a fire chief dad) and almost didn’t go back to the workshops to learn the basics of glass fusion. But she did. And that choice would ultimately transform the rest of her life. “I came back in and fell madly in love with fusing — it was an instant drug addiction,” describes Peggy. Now, her glass art belongs in museums, public and private collections and even the White House. At 50 years old, she was accepted into Dale Chihuly’s Pilchuck Glass School and then trained at the Academy Taller in Barcelona, Spain. Her success came after many years of dedication to learning new techniques and methods, including an unusual process Peggy mastered called verre églomisé, which dates back 400 years. This process requires Peggy to skillfully work glass intaglio (in reverse), a beautiful process involving sandblasting, painting and inlaying copper, silver and gold to the backside of most types of fused, cast or flat glass. However, Peggy didn’t want to just learn; she wanted to develop new techniques using specific materials. Namely, to create hot furnace glass without the use of a furnace, an expensive piece of equipment Peggy didn’t own or January 2017
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desire to purchase. And when she looked for answers among established artists, she was repeatedly told it couldn’t be done. “The glass artists had said that the type of glass, materials used and the extreme movement I was requiring of the glass was not possible,” explains Peggy. “That the glass would break or something horrible would happen to my kiln. I got frustrated, angry and said that I would find a way to do it.” She then committed herself to achieving the impossible: “I studied the materials, science and chemistry of glass. I set about
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working with the masters in glass.” And achieve the impossible, she did. After much trial and error, she developed a method that would allow a very large and rarely used piece of flat glass (coated with a thin film of dielectric coating) to melt into and drape over a mold — all miraculously done without the open flame of a furnace and the need to pour molten glass using a ladle. Through this kiln cast process, Peggy manipulates the glass in order to create texture, pattern and other intricate details.
After casting molds of faces this way, Peggy created exquisite and one-of-a-kind glass art. Because of this, she began to cast the faces of many celebrities, including Michael Jackson (completed using his “Thriller” special effects mold), Jack Nicholson, Kevin Sorbo, Olympic gymnast Olga Korbut, Vincent Price, Catherine Hickland and many more. While this further established her as a skillful glass artist, it also created an opportunity for Peggy to take her art down a more personal path. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay area, Peggy lived and loved the 1960s psychedelic rock bands that originated in that region and inspired music around the world. For Peggy, it was more than entertainment; it had become her motivation, counselor, friend and teacher. So it was only a matter of time before Peggy’s love of music and art collided. After encouragement from a fellow artist to create art that was meaningful to her, she began to envision a project that would pay respect to the individual musicians, not just the bands, that had impacted her life. Members of bands like Jefferson Airplane, Big Brother and the Holding Company, The Youngbloods, Country Joe and the Fish, Steve Miller Band and Grateful Dead, just to name a few. “Next thing I know, I get contacted by two people telling me how much they loved the piece of Catherine [Hickland]. The first was a person who had the name of Michael and the last name of Joplin,” says Peggy, who then pauses and smiles. “Janis’ brother. He’s a glass artist in Tucson. He showed [my work] to a guy named Sam Andrew. He called me and his name was familiar. I went and looked at some albums and I said, ‘Could it be? Could it really be?’ And it was.” Sam Andrew, the founding member and guitarist of Big Brother and the Holding Company, came down to Peggy’s studio two days later and allowed her to cast his face — the first of many living legends of rock that Peggy would ultimately cast for her project. A project that only Peggy can describe. “Each piece is a storyteller, as the sculpture contains unique icons and subtle stories about the artist,” Peggy explains. “Like a record, the glass is round. And as in a song, each sculpture has a melody, harmony and rhythm. Their face represents the melody and is centered in the sculpture. January 2017
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The melody in a song is always surrounded by harmony and rhythm. The harmony is the area surrounding the face. It tells the story. Subtle imagery of things important to the musician is woven into the glass. Last is the rhythm. The texture and movement of the glass represents the rhythm. Thus, each glass sculpture is like a song, their personal song.” These storyteller pieces will be showcased in a museum and gallery exhibition during next year’s 50th Anniversary of the “Summer of Love." Peggy’s vision includes a time tunnel that follows the musician’s journey, beginning with their musical career and ending with their current life in and out of music. The exhibition will also include a montage of photos carved into glass, their non-musical passions, personal memorabilia and intaglio glass carvings of the original concert posters. “It is a fascinating project,” says Peggy. “Working with these incredible music legends is a dream come true. Using my glass art to tell their unique story is a major highlight of my life. It is a legacy I wish to leave. Anyone can write a story about them,
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but I am using the unique medium of glass to tell this story. Telling a story that you can’t find in any book.” And she isn’t just telling their story through glass. She’s telling her own story, one of determination, strength and resilience. Because Peggy has overcome more than cancer and naysayers. Last year, the doctors said her right temporal lobe would need to be removed as a result of her mesial temporal sclerosis. This would remove the parts of the brain responsible for enjoying music, creativity and emotions — all aspects of Peggy’s life that were non-negotiable. So, she chose to take the road less traveled (like many times before), and underwent a new ablative brain surgery last year. Now, with a successful surgery behind her, Peggy can continue achieving the impossible, in both life and art. peggypettigrewstewart.com
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January 2017
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A New Horse in Town
Walking into Cave Creek's Big Bronco, customers immediately appreciate owner Faith Weinberg's passion for all things Western. Not only because the store overflows with beautiful Western items like masculine leather lounge chairs, decorative antique pieces or lighting created from antlers, metals and wagon wheels, but also because each item displayed reflects Faith's desire to give every customer the opportunity to live the Western dream. She accomplishes this by featuring high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces, making each purchase an exceptional experience. After opening the store in 2000, Big Bronco consistently provides customers with the most sought-after pieces needed to create an eclectic Western look within their home. These pieces, while rustic in nature, reflect a contemporary feel, allowing customers to purchase pieces that mix well with more modern decor. Additionally, Faith believes in choosing both nature-friendly and handmade items made from 100-year-old reclaimed lumber, natural mesquite, turquoise inlays, hand-carved teak and more, helping customers to find pieces that display colors and textures found in the West. "When customers walk into the store, I want it to be an experience — for them to get lost in the beautiful Western feel that I've created," says Faith. "And also, for customers to find items that cannot be found anywhere else. The way I buy will be different than any other store. I even work with some manufacturers to create one-ofa-kind pieces. So there is a personal touch with everything. But it's important to me that we only carry the finest quality at a reasonable price."
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Writer Grace Hill
It's also essential to Faith that customers purchase quality products from local or American artisans. Because of this, she searches for new product lines and accessories to carry. One of the latest additions to Big Bronco's inventory is a horse sculpture line by Attila's Bayshore Studio, which is based in San Francisco — an addition that aligns with Faith’s passion. "When I was a child in Ohio, I would ride often," recalls Faith. "When I moved out here, I eventually bought a mare named Daisy and then adopted, from Triple R Horse Rescue, a mini named Rosie. I now work with both Triple R and Arizona Equine Rescue by donating items from my collection for fundraising or by giving a percentage of my special event sales. Horses are a part of the West and part of the love of my life, so it is only natural to carry horse art within my store." Specifically, the horse sculptures, created and designed by Attila Tivadar, are a unique item for any home. With more than 30 years of sculpturing masterpieces, Tivadar’s creativity and originality unfold throughout his horse sculpture line. “I typically create the original artwork in plasticine clay,” says Tivadar. "I don't use drawings. I use an idea from my head and let the clay lead me from there, often far from the original idea. My inspiration comes from all over the place." Like Faith, Tivadar's inspiration comes from his strong connection to horses. Growing up with an avid horse rider for a father, it was only natural for him to bring the image of a horse into his artwork. Not just because horses filled his past, but because he has a deep appreciation for them. “I really respected the grace and beauty of these animals,” explains Tivadar. This kind of respect embodies the sculptures. Whether sculpted as a stand-alone figure or connected to a bowl, Tivadar’s horses display texture, movement and simplicity. The horses are available in five different finishes: clay, tan, turquoise, brown and verdigris, so customers can choose the horse that will fit perfectly in their home — just like every other item that Faith carries in her store. Big Bronco 6602 E. Cave Creek Rd. Monday through Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 480-575-1357 bigbroncocavecreek.com January 2017
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SHINING BRIGHT
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ARIZONA CAMP SUNRISE AND SIDEKICKS
Writer Lara Piu Photographer Michelle Vosseller
The first day Pam Metzger volunteered at Arizona Camp Sunrise, a summer camp for children with cancer, she was excited — and a little nervous. “Will I be a good counselor?” she wondered. “Will it be sad?” Her co-worker at AG Communication Systems was the camp’s director and had persuaded Pam to volunteer. Held at R-C Scout Ranch outside of Payson, the weeklong summer camp brings together more than 200 children between the ages of 8 and 18 who are directly impacted by cancer to participate in arts and crafts, cookouts, campfires, rope courses and, of course, plenty of outdoor fun. “I was fresh out of college, excited to start my adult life, and thought this would be a great chance to give back,” says Pam. She walked into a new world.
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Kids support each other and find out they are not alone.
“I made friendships with kids and staff that I still have to this day,” she says. “I had so much fun being silly.” Pam has been a volunteer ever since that day in 1987. Now her husband, Mike, and kids are involved, too. They affectionately refer to their family of campers and volunteers as their “campily.” “The volunteer staff and children are like a second family,” says Mike. “We plan our family vacations around camp every year to make sure we can attend.” Their three daughters participate as campers during the day and help with setup, breakdown and paperwork during the before and after. When they turn 17, they’ll participate in the Leadersin-Training (LIT) program to learn life skills and insight into what it takes to be a counselor at this very unique camp. Many campers become camp leaders through the program. “I especially like to see campers transition from camper to LIT,” Pam says. “The kids get a flavor of responsibility, and it is so cool to watch how they step up to the task. Some campers have even returned to camp as adult volunteers. What a great circle.
“My hope is that our volunteer habits carry forward with our daughters as they move into their adult life.” A month before each camp session, Pam prepares by going into what she calls “email, communication and paperwork mode.” As the camper coordinator, she works with more than 200 families, helping them register for sessions, reviewing all registration paperwork, answering questions and fielding the phone line. “The good feeling I get from being a part of this fantastic team January 2017
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and the energy I receive during and after camp stays with me for awhile,” Pam adds. “I enjoy watching these kids grow up. The kids come to camp because of the common bond of having cancer or having a sibling with cancer, but they come back to camp because of the connections they've made and the fun we have.” It takes more than 100 volunteers like Pam and her family to run things. Helping hands take care of logistics, activities, staffing, training, menu planning, paperwork and more. “Volunteers are the life blood of our organization,” says Barb Nicholas, Arizona Camp Sunrise and Sidekicks executive director and chief development officer. “We cannot have our programs without them.” Barb is Arizona Camp Sunrise and Sidekicks only staff member; otherwise, the organization relies on volunteers to organize camps, as well as other programs such as outings
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and fundraisers. More than 700 kids participated in 2016, and this year the organization celebrates its 35th anniversary. The nonprofit’s signature program is Arizona Camp Sunrise. “It gives these kids an opportunity to just be kids, to get out of the clinic or hospital and have a fun, exciting camp experience,” says Barb. “We have doctors and nurses at camp 24 hours a day if needed. It gives them a sense of normal; they are not the kid with cancer at our camp, they are just a kid at camp. They get to be with kids who are walking their journey, who have been through the same things. It is definitely a bonding experience and the kids make lifelong friends. I have never turned away a child from a camp program. One way or another, I find a way to make sure we can serve every child who wants to be a part of camp.” Approximately eight camps are held each year in the form of weeklong camps, weekend retreats, family camps and
day camps. Up next is a winter retreat for teens the first weekend of February. “Camp is important to me because you can be yourself and you don’t have to worry about the outside world,” says camper Alexis Varin. “It’s a break from the hospital, and you get to do stuff you don’t get to do every day. You meet new people who have the same disease. You get to smile — a lot of people don’t smile when they are sick.” Siblings attend camps, too. In fact, there’s even a summer retreat held exclusively for them. “Parents came to us and said, ‘We love that you have the camp for our child who has cancer, but I have two other kids at home who are lost, afraid and need some attention. What can you do for them?’” Barb explains. “So we started this camp, and it has been so important to the kids. Our whole philosophy is that cancer affects the whole family, so we need to try to support the whole family through this. I have seen amazing things happen at this camp. Kids support one another and find out they are not alone.” While the community has been supportive, the organization always needs volunteers and funding, according to Barbara. “All of our programs are free of charge to the participants,” Barb says. “We cannot run these programs without donations.” azcampsunrise.org
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Writer Lara Piu Photographers Scott Dames, Larry Edsall and Bob Golfen
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The 1936 Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic is widely considered among the greatest automotive jewels of the Art Deco era. It’s the most famous creation of Jean Bugatti, the artist and engineer son of company founder Ettore Bugatti. A classic display of the gracefully-lined design aesthetic he is famous for, the 57SC was the first of four Atlantics built by Bugatti. Originally sold to Victor Rothschild, third Baron Rothschild, Chassis Number 57374 is now owned by Peter Mullin and Rob Walton and sits in the Mullin Automotive Museum in Oxnard, California. But on January 15, it will sit among 90 antique, classic, post-war race and exotic cars at Arizona Concours d’Elegance. “To have one of the most recognized classic cars in the world present on the Biltmore’s inner courtyard is a wonderful opportunity for those who cherish the art and style of the
Event
Arizona Concours d’Elegance Arizona Biltmore Resort 2400 E. Missouri Ave. Phoenix, 85016 Competition: $80 online; $100 at the door Panel discussions: $60 Arizona Tour d’Elegance: Free
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automobile,” says Ed Winkler, co-director of the event. “The car is pure art in motion, and guests will have the opportunity to see this extraordinary — and rarely seen — automobile at the Arizona Concours.” Held at the historic Arizona Biltmore, the fourth annual competition will also include a celebration of the 100-year history of Italian design house Coachwork by Vignale, champion race car drivers, panel discussions, racing legends and more. Automobiles come from across the United States for the competition. Each year, 15 standard classes are displayed and judged. In addition, there will be three special classes this year: Lincolns of the Classic Era, Cars of Ettore Bugatti and Coachwork by Vignale.
The Arizona Concours d’Elegance weekend includes three panel discussions on January 14: • 10 a.m.: Phoenix Automotive Press Association Auction Week Preview • Noon: “Legends: Pioneering Women in Racing,” moderated by veteran driver Lyn St. James • 2 p.m.: “Drive: The Passion Driving Race Team Owners,” moderated by Lyn St. James with Chip Ganassi and Bobby Rahal On January 16 at 8:00 a.m. is the Arizona Tour d’Elegance, when a parade of the Concours cars will drive through the Valley. At noon, the cars will be parked at the Scottsdale Waterfront, where they will briefly be on display for free. All proceeds from the Arizona Concours benefit Make-A-Wish Arizona, the founding chapter of the national organization that grants wishes for children with life-threatening medical conditions. The Concours has raised about $200,000 for Make-A-Wish Arizona, making more than 20 wishes for Arizona children with life-threatening medical conditions possible. arizonaconcours.com
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Writer Katherine Braden Photographer Loralei Lazurek
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“I am not your typical Mexican artist,” Cecilia Calderon tells me. “Here in the U.S., a lot of Mexican artists do either Chicano art, Frida or skulls.” Cecilia can do that, but it’s not something that really inspires her. Instead, she favors a medium a bit more unusual: copper. “I work big,” she says. Four to six feet, usually. Most of her pieces are canvas wall hangings, though some are tapestries or sculpture. She works on them daily in her Scottsdale home studio, making 20 to 40 per year. From inception to completion, the process requires several weeks. For Cecilia, it all begins with “an idea cooking inside.” This can take days, but it’s best not to try and force it. And even then, what Cecilia envisions in the beginning is not what comes out at the end. Copper, it seems, is unpredictable, but Cecilia has mastered the art of letting it take her where it wants. For example: if Cecilia’s oxy-acetylene torch burns through the copper (the torch produces temps around 6,330 F), she’ll work around the hole instead of tossing the piece.
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“Accidents happen,” she says, “which I like. After all these years, I have to trust that if something happens, it’s going to be much better than what I imagined. Instead of throwing it, I keep it and say ‘Where is this taking me?’” Cecilia torches, cuts and texturizes the copper, applying hydrochloric acid and liver of sulfur to create patinas on the metal’s surface. She can control the patinas around 80 percent of the time; the rest is up to nature. “If you want green, then the temperature of the air around the copper needs to be warm; if you want light blue, the air should be cold,” she explains. “If I want a specific color, I have to wait for the right time of day.” Next, Cecilia covers the piece for up to three days. The reveal is always a surprise — she can never entirely predict how the
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acid and metal have reacted to each other. Once she has her copper, she combines it with fabric like burlap, gluing copper and stretched burlap onto the canvas. “I love a lot of texture,” she says. Next, she uses oil paints on the piece. Her mediums vary, however. Sometimes she’ll use plaster, acrylic, spray paint or modeling paste. Cecilia didn’t always work with copper. She studied graphic design in Mexico City in the late ‘70s, but learned stained glass in Toronto. When she and her husband moved back to Mexico City in 1981, she started her own stained glass studio. “I was one of the first women who had an independent glass studio in Mexico City,” she tells me. In fact, she helped found the Mexican Association of Glass Artists.
When her husband’s job took them to Austin, Texas in 1995, she tried to open her own studio once again. “But no one would take me seriously,” she says. Someone told her, “In Mexico, even though you were very famous, you’re nobody here until you prove yourself.” Cecilia had her portfolio with her, but that still wasn’t enough. They told her that, in order to establish credibility, she’d need to teach. She taught for a year at Laguna Gloria Art Museum before establishing her own studio in Austin. There, she did commissioned glass work for architects, designers and private clients. Eventually, Cecilia got tired of doing flat work, and started working her glass into 3-D pieces. In search of something to support her 3-D glass work, she wandered into a gallery full of copper sculptures. She asked if they taught, they said yes, and she started taking a copper sculpture class. That was 1997, and she hasn’t looked back since. What drew her to copper? “I just love to work with fire,” she says, laughing. “I love [the torch], and I love the patinas that you can make with the copper.” Her inspiration comes mostly from her own experiences, moods and emotions. It changes daily depending on the moment she’s in. She’s also inspired by nature and likes her pieces to look very organic. “When I was driving to Sedona, the saguaro [trees] were all around, and I thought ‘They look like people, like guardians of the earth,’ so I came home and made my Guardian series.” She’s referencing cylindrical art lamps. They’re 4 to 8 feet tall, 8 to 12 inches in
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I’m constantly evolving, adapting to different circumstances of my life, exploring new ways to grow and know myself. There’s always a parallel between my personal life and my art.
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diameter and decorated in copper, burlap and oil paint. Though most of her work is abstract, Cecilia also does family tree commission pieces, depicting family members as birds or flowers. They’re popular anniversary or wedding gifts, she says. Interested in purchasing her work? She does corporate and personal commissions, and her work can be seen and ordered on her website. Also, keep an eye out for some of Cecilia’s art if you’re ever at the Gallery at el Pedregal. When Cecilia’s not making art or taking care of her family, she meditates. “I’m constantly evolving,” she says, “adapting to different circumstances of my life, exploring new ways to grow and know myself. There’s always a parallel between my personal life and my art.” Cecilia also dabbles in energy healing, a practice she learned in Mexico. “It’s a way to help people release their trapped emotions,” she explains. The similarities between Cecilia and her work are not to be missed. Both are calming, yet further study provides a deeper, more intense energy than what is seen on first glance. There’s complex emotions hidden there, as well as history. The inner workings tell a story of dedication and studied reflection. “I would like people to lose themselves in the art,” she says. And in the end, Cecilia has done what she set out to do: provide a place for you to lose yourself, in the best way possible. ceciliahcalderon.com
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New year,new you! Writer Lara Piu
Whether it’s wellness, fitness or business, mind, body or soul, most everyone has aspirations for the new year. Here are eight new ways to find inspiration and gear up your goal game.
Grow it Is healthy eating on your list? Consider a vegetable and herb garden. According to local gardening guru Gregory Ware, it all starts with proper soil preparation. In his upcoming soil preparation class held on January 29 ($40), you’ll learn how to build a balanced, healthy soil. He’ll then send you home with 100 square feet of locally-produced organic fertilizer and soil sulfur to get you started. southwestgardener.com
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Zen yourself Kick your new year off in a new state of mind. In her Zen Bird vision board workshop, Marian Mellen shares how to create the feel-goods, as well as tips and tricks for living with grace, positivity and joy. You’ll connect with a supportive group of like-minded people and create a 2017 vision board that you can take home to keep the good vibes flowing. thezenbird.com
Go vertical
Step outside your fitness box with the Boulders Resort & Spa’s new waterfall rappel ($150). You’ll scale a waterfall that cascades over ancient rock formations in the picturesque setting of this classic resort. Taught by expert guides, the class is designed around safety and control, and is well suited for both beginners as well as more experienced rappelers. And yes, a harness and helmet are included. theboulders.com
Keep tidy The Tube Waistband ($24.95) helps you keep your stuff while you step in stride. Created by Scottsdale entrepreneur Lisa Henry Holmes, the band fits over or under clothing snug at your waist. Its three pockets have enough space to safely hold your phone, wallet, lipstick, snacks and more. The next-generation fanny pack comes in four sizes and 32 colors. Find it at Walmart and a variety of boutiques throughout the Valley. thetubewaistband.com Photo by The Tube Waistband
Photo by IMUSA
Steam sum Throw a dim sum steamer into your veggie mix. This age-old method maximizes flavor, vitamins and nutrients. Steamers like the IMUSA Asian Bamboo Steamer ($29.99) cook vegetables, seafood and, of course, dim sum, and you can serve from them, too. The weaved design lets steam pass through for better results, and multiple layers mean a variety of foods are cooked simultaneously. Add herbs to the water for flavor. target.com January 2017
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Glitter and grow If this is the year for your business best, glean tips and tricks from local social media extraordinaire Kathy CanoMurillo, widely known as Crafty Chica. Each month at Compass CBS, the former Arizona Republic writer-turnedcreativepreneur shares the techniques she used to turn her glittery idea and a blog into a thriving business. craftychica.com
Fuse fitness Fitness fusion rolls your favorite workout classes into one. Kara Thomas, Sanctuary on Camelback Mountain’s fitness and wellness director, says to look for instructors who stay true to form. She leads the resort’s vinyasa reformer class ($20), which combines flow yoga and Pilates on a reformer. It challenges the core and improves balance, coordination and posture through movement synchronized to breath. sanctuaryoncamelback.com
Photo by David A. Cano
Conquer the mountain
If you’ve always wanted to climb Camelback Mountain but have been holding out, try Omni Scottsdale Resort & Spa at Montelucia’s Conquer Camelback excursion ($25). This threehour hike is led by fitness and hiking experts who help you summit the more than two vertical miles of gravel, boulders and steep grades. They meet off-site each Saturday through the end of May. omnihotels.com
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WHERE ART LOVERS AND ARTISTS CONNECT
27TH ANNUAL CELEBRATION OF FINE ART Writer Grace Hill Photo by Timothy Wampler
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Every year, 50,000 people from around the country and the Valley travel to Scottsdale to enjoy the Celebration of Fine Art. As Arizona's longest-running art show — currently in its 27th year — the Celebration of Fine Art produces a creative utopia where 100 artists come together and showcase their exquisite pieces of art. This year’s event will run from January 14 through March 26. Artists do not just display their work, however; they create art in working studios right before guests' eyes. This makes the Celebration of Fine Art stand above other events, and is why people continually come back. Each year brings a whole new experience.
Artist Gabriella Firehammer
“Over the course of the past 26 years, the legacy of the Celebration of Fine Art has been passed down through generations of artists and art lovers,” says Susan Morrow Potje, co-owner and show director. "It has a storied history and has become a very special place for artists and art lovers to connect, inspire one another, learn, discover and, most importantly, build lasting relationships. The Celebration is truly an experience like no other — you simply have to feel it for yourself. Once you come here, it is a place you want to come back to over and over again." A place where guests can find some of the finest artists this country has to offer. The 100 emerging and acclaimed artists in attendance have been selected through an invitation-only process and will bring a wide range of art to the big white tents located on the Southwest corner of Hayden Road and the Loop 101.
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In this 40,000-square-foot area, attendees have access to acrylic, oil and watercolor paintings; photography, mixed media and printmaking; glass, sculptures and ceramics; and much more! Guests will also find styles ranging from realistic to impressionistic and abstract to contemporary. In addition to the indoor space, a spectacular outdoor sculpture garden showcases nearly 100 pieces of life-size sculptures. One of the artists showcasing amazing talent at this year's event is Jenny Foster. A native Arizonan, Jenny began painting at the age of 7 and continued developing that passion into adulthood. To improve her skills, she studied fine arts at Arizona State University. She now creates beautiful paintings that can be described with one word: playful. Her acrylic and oil paintings reflect a contemporary style that expresses a love of life and happiness. She uses bright colors, abstract forms, and symbols to create oneof-a-kind pictures of animals and humans. She also echoes those images in her bronze and pewter sculptures, which further display her joyful artistic eye. Her artwork can be viewed online at jfosterstudio.com. The Celebration of Fine Art also includes an Art Discovery Series, held each Friday from 4 to 5 p.m. This series allows guests to interact with artists through informal panel discussions in which they can learn about various topics and techniques, and also hear personal stories from the artists. Wine and cheese will accompany each panel discussion. On January 20, the Art Discovery Series will commence with "The Art of the Installation," which discusses the significance of the viewer. In the January 27 discussion, "As the Wood Turns," guests will discover the incredible artistry of woodworking. While many who attend this event might be purchasing artwork for their extensive collections, many first-time buyers or casual art admirers also visit the show each year. With children and adults both encouraged to be a part of the experience, the Celebration of Fine Art creates a welcoming environment for all who are eager to be fully immersed in the world of fine art. The show will be open daily, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and military, and children under 12 are admitted for free. celebrateart.com
Artist Pete Tillack
Painting by Jenny Foster
Experience
Celebration of Fine Art 18400 N. Hayden Rd., Scottsdale Jan. 14 - Mar. 26 Mon. - Sun. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Adults: $10; Seniors/Military: $8; Children under 12: free 480-443-7695 celebrateart.com
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Writer Katherine Braden
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When Lauren Lee enrolled at Arizona State University in 2003, the goal was to major in women’s studies — but she found it difficult to acclimate to the college environment. So when her mom suggested she take art classes to make the experience more enjoyable, Lauren agreed and took as many art classes as she could. So many, in fact, that when she looked at her transcript her senior year, she had enough credits to graduate with a degree in fine art. “Everyone said, ‘You’ll never get a job with an art degree,’” Lauren says. But she proved them wrong. The New School for the Arts and Academics in Tempe hired her before she graduated. She taught basic drawing and art, as well as creating some classes herself, such as digital mixed media.
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“Before I started teaching, I had probably only done two paintings,” Lauren says. She drew a lot and used Photoshop, but was intimidated by painting. “At ASU, unless you’re a painting major, you can’t take painting classes. I decided to just pick up a brush and learn.”
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She went to the school’s painting teacher, who gave her a box of used oil paints. Two years later, her entire house was filled with her oil paintings. Too many, actually. “I asked the owner of the Fair Trade Cafe if it would be possible for me to have a show,” Lauren says. “She said ‘Absolutely, but no one has ever sold any paintings here.’” Lauren sold every single piece. “That’s when I knew I could probably do that as a career,” she tells me. It was 2010. Lauren happened upon mural painting almost accidentally. When GreenHaus had a design contest for a mural on the side of their building, she decided to apply. “Murals are basically three 7-foot paintings, and I can do that,” she thought to herself. When her design won, reality hit. She called someone who did murals and they advised using acrylic paint. “Now I’m going to have to figure out how to paint with acrylic,” she remembers thinking. She practiced, researched and did her homework. Then she went out and painted her famous “Three Birds” mural. “People really responded to the mural, and I was hooked,” she says. “From then on, it was about pursuing public art projects, murals and things that would reach the larger community.”
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You’ve probably seen her murals. They’re scattered all over Phoenix, on the side of apartment buildings and cafes, in libraries and dog parks. And they’re difficult to miss. Not only are they colorful, imaginative and bold, but they’re also quite large. “Don’t Wake the Dreamer,” the biggest one so far, is about 16 feet tall and 153 feet wide. “I’m about to start on the Mount Everest of art projects,” she says, referencing her next project: murals on three four-story skyscrapers in Scottsdale. “It’s going to be a lot, but I’m excited.”
If she wins the mural commission, she begins the process of preparation, packing up her truck with paints and brushes. If necessary, she’ll rent a boom lift. Unlike most mural artists who use spray paint, Lauren paints most of her murals by hand. It’s a laborious process. “You have to just go step by step,” Lauren says. “If there are a hundred flowers, you have to tell yourself, ‘Today, I’m doing these three flowers.’ I don’t allow myself to get overwhelmed. It doesn’t get done in a day. You have to take your time and keep moving forward.”
What does her mural process look like? “First I go on-site, get a feel for the neighborhood, take photos, go home and sit in meditation,” Lauren says. “I wait for a vision to come.” She’ll see the finished project in her mind, then design it in Photoshop or draw it by hand. She then presents this design to a finalist panel.
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Lauren typically paints five hours a day because her work is so physical. She’ll work two weeks straight doing a large mural and then take two weeks of downtime working on smaller pieces. Murals take her anywhere from four days to seven weeks, and she does about five a year.
Though the work is physical and taxing, Lauren finds it freeing and rewarding. “It gives me a lot of joy to know I bring art into people’s everyday world,” she says. “If I have just some paint, a brush and a boom lift, I can make this 40-foot painting. It’s a pretty incredible gift that I take seriously.” Lauren realizes the responsibility public art grants her. “[I’m driven] by knowing that if I slack off here, cut corners there, this is permanent,” she says. “Five years from now, the choices I make today are still going to be there on that wall. A lot of kids never go into an art gallery or museum. Mine might be the first art they ever see. That’s a lot of responsibility, and it fuels my desire to do well.” Lauren’s paintings are often bold and colorful, but she achieves a balance of quiet intimacy in them, as well. “My paintings are a glimpse into my inner world,” she says. “It’s my way of sharing and giving hope to people — that we are beautiful and that life can be beautiful, magical and transcendent.” Part of that magic includes bringing nature back into public, man-made spaces: “I want to reflect back on our natural world. People are so removed. We feel so much peace and joy in nature and yet we have done everything to remove ourselves from it. There’s a big urban disconnect, and art humanizes the urban element. It makes people feel like they have a friend there, that they’re not alone.” Is there something she wants the people of Phoenix to know about her? “I may not know them, but I believe in them,” she says. “I believe in their human potential. And they’re all artists. Every choice you make, the words you say, the clothes you wear, how you do your hair — you’re an artist, you’re creating. Life is an artistic experience.” Aren’t we lucky, Phoenix, to be surrounded by murals that remind us of that truth? laurenleefineart.com
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At the center of the Arizona Car Week excitement is the 46th annual Barrett-Jackson, the gala and star-studded auction held January 14-22 at WestWorld of Scottsdale. “We’re going to fuel the excitement we built up during our 45th anniversary year with our 2017 Scottsdale auction,” says Craig Jackson, chairman and CEO of Barrett-Jackson. This year, the auction — which has raised more than $91 million to date — is at it again. It’s partnering with Rock and Roll Hall
Writer Lara Piu Photos courtesy of Barrett-Jackson Auction Co., LLC.
of Fame inductee and four-time Grammy award-winner Steven Tyler to auction his extremely rare 2012 Hennessey Venom GT Spyder. Proceeds will benefit Janie’s Fund, an initiative created in partnership with Tyler and Youth Villages to bring hope and healing for many of the country’s most vulnerable girls who have suffered the trauma of abuse and neglect. “We’re looking forward to another great contribution when Steven Tyler drives his personal Hennessey Venom GT Spyder across the block to benefit Janie’s Fund,” says Craig.
Event
Barrett-Jackson January 14-22 WestWorld of Scottsdale 16601 N. Pima Rd. Scottsdale, 85260 480-421-6694 barrett-jackson.com
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This rare supercar is the fifth of only 12 Hennessey Venom GTs ever created, and first of the Spyder convertibles. In March 2016, it recorded a top speed of 265.6 mph, making it the world’s fastest convertible sports car. It will cross the auction block at no reserve, with 100 percent of the hammer price benefiting Janie’s Fund. “I’m confident this, as well as the more than 1,500 collectible vehicles we’ll have in Scottsdale, will set the stage for another banner year at Barrett-Jackson,” adds Craig. Another highlight on the auction block will be the 1960 Chevrolet Engineering Research Vehicle 1 belonging to the “Father of the Corvette,” Zora Arkus-Duntov. This vehicle served as Arkus-Duntov’s personal test bed for what became the Chevrolet Corvette in the 1960s. Fitted with a 377ci aluminum small block, an advanced Rochester fuel-injection system and Indy-style tires and wheels, the car comes with considerable paperwork and history and stands as one of the experimental landmarks of General Motors history. The vehicle is an important piece of American automotive history and is said to be one of the most anticipated vehicles on the docket. The Charlie Thomas Collection will cross the block at no reserve. The more than 140 vehicle collection is an eclectic mix of spectacular prewar classics, American muscle, European cars and high-performance vehicles. There’s a highly collectible 1970 Plymouth Superbird featuring the original V-code 440/390 horsepower six-pack V8, backed by a four-speed transmission with a pistol-grip shifter. It includes the optional A33 Trak Pak and Dana 60 rear, and features Mopar’s iconic Tic-Toc-Tach, radio, power steering, power front disc brakes and tinted glass. It’s been professionally restored to show-winning specifications and is a Mopar Gold national show winner. barrett-jackson.com
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Writer Shannon Severson Photographer Bryan Black
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From island to ranch to desert, Studio Paleo’s Dave and Sandy Daniel have lived, constructed, and created in diverse environments over the course of their nearly 40 years of marriage. Now based in Apache Junction, their collaboration of vision, artisanship and adventurous spirit comes through in the contemporary folk art they produce, and art collectors here in Arizona and around the world are taking notice. It all began with the Peace Pony, which has become a signature creation of Studio Paleo. In 2012, Dave carved the first ponies from wooden beams reclaimed from an old cotton warehouse in Eloy, Arizona, and consigned them to Big Bronco, a Western furniture store in Cave Creek. The horses are completely one-of-a-kind pieces carved by Dave and painted by Sandy, who dresses them with fabrics, feathers, beads, found scraps of leather and metal embellishments. Patrons were immediately drawn to them, and the ponies have gone to live in homes in Arizona, around the country … even as far away as Sweden.
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“I say it’s like Pinocchio,” says Sandy. “He brings me this little bare, freshly-carved pony and as I start painting and laying on the fabric, each one gets its own personality and people just fall in love with them. They make people smile.” This personal connection is such that owners of Peace Ponies have been known to give them names and send the Daniels updates and photos from their new homes. Dave and Sandy have been a successful creative team from the start. Sandy, a San Diego girl, met Dave in Waikiki. It was love at first sight, and the two were married within six months of meeting. “He was an adventurer from the very beginning,” says Sandy. “We moved away from busy Oahu to Hawaii with $500 we’d
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saved up and an old Impala his stepdad had given us. We didn’t even stop to think about it. We just did it.” The two began building homes together from the ground up, utilizing materials from old buildings and Dave’s construction and self-taught design talent. They lived on the land and in the unfinished homes as they built them. Sandy jokes that they were “glamping” before anyone had coined the phrase. “That was our outlet for creativity,” says Dave. “Sandy was right there with me — we built the houses together. When I designed homes, I’d think aesthetically, working from the outside in. It was the opposite of how you’re supposed to go about it, but I learned as I went.” They completed and sold 11 homes on the Big Island, drawing
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His hauntingly beautiful sculpture, “The Pioneer Spirit,” is the form of a woman in an iron hoop skirt, holding an 1885 Bible with a feather in it. Sandy fashioned her sunbonnet from an old screen door and at her back are wings made from ribs of saguaro. Another piece, the masked and mysterious “Bird Man,” is also adorned with saguaro wings. Around his neck is a necklace of snake vertebrae. His lower body is made from cholla, and feathers ring his ankles.
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In 2009, they purchased a 10-acre ranch north of Austin, Texas and set about restoring the original 1880s homestead while learning the ways of ranch life. They soon discovered that beneath the dirt was a treasure trove of artifacts, remnants of a previous property owner’s collection, and the area eventually became a registered historical site. Feeling the connection with both the indigenous people and pioneers who had once lived on that ground, Dave began painting. His own heritage as a native Hawaiian and his love of history contributed to his interpretation of this paleo period of time that largely remains a mystery and leaves room for creativity. He avoids copying the images of Native Americans made famous by photographer Edward S. Curtis, preferring to paint from what he envisions in his own mind.
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When you get something in front of you, you look at it and look at it until you can see what it will become.
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Like his sculptures, Dave’s paintings, including the solemn “Medicine Man,” allow the beholder to consider the stories behind the faces. There is a subtle commentary about the suffering and survivors’ spirit of Native Americans that often runs through these pieces. He doesn’t pre-sketch, but begins painting straightaway when inspiration strikes. He sets the hue of the canvas first, and then works from there. “I don’t giclée any of my paintings or make prints,” says Dave. “I think that’s what keeps people coming back. We don’t try to manufacture anything. We’ve sold out every year for the last four years. It can be hard to keep up, but whenever I have time off from work, I spend it carving and painting.”
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Cholla, which is difficult to procure, is a favorite material of Dave’s and has an organic, almost prehistoric feel to it. Some of the pieces are quite large and the reclamation process takes months. The wood is carefully bleached and treated to ensure no insects remain, then Dave takes time to consider the curves and planes of each piece as its intended purpose slowly takes shape in his mind. He then adds busts carved from other wood to top the cholla, often working through the night when inspiration strikes. “When you get something in front of you,” says Dave, “you look at it and look at it until you can see what it will become. It’s like when you read a book and really get a full concentration of your focus. It’s the same feeling. At night, it’s so quiet that you can go into yourself and think and create.”
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Most of the Studio Paleo sculptures are Western or Native American in theme, but recently, Dave and Sandy have collaborated to create figurative art in a new vein and have been pleased with the response. Two in particular have caught the eye of Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum. Last year, “Southern Girl” was chosen by the museum for its 37th annual Contemporary Crafts exhibition in 2016, and “The Traveling Librarian” has been selected for its 38th annual Contemporary Crafts exhibit, to be held February 10 through April 23, 2017. The librarian was inspired by a photo Sandy saw depicting women in 1920s New York City carrying small cabinets filled with books on their backs. The sculptural representation features clothing, shoes and books from the era. She captures the imagination and is opening doors to a widening clientele for Studio Paleo. The Daniels are enjoying the barrier-free art scene here in Phoenix, and it’s rewarding to see the appeal of their work for people of all ages and backgrounds. “Arizona is open to everybody,” says Dave. “If you have the talent, people appreciate your work. I thrive on the energy I get from making something new and fresh. I look at the work of other artists and appreciate it, but it’s a glance. I want to keep my own style and don’t want to copy anyone else. Sandy and I just like to create from what inspires us.” studiopaleo@gmail.com instagram.com/studiopaleo
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Writer Tom Scanlon
Few among us blend the art of climbing and the art of imagining climbing like Tere Zacher. In addition to being a champion swimmer and long-distance runner, she is an Arizona Hiking Adventures guide. As a counselor and sports psychologist, she is also an interior guide. When she tells her clients, “You can do whatever you set your mind to do,” she’s not just talking. A native of Mexico, she started swimming at 24, taking a local coach’s harsh comment that she was too old to start as inspiration, rather than as a roadblock. After competing in world championships in swimming, she came to Arizona, where she earned master’s degrees in counseling and sports psychology. Here, she met her husband, Kevin, a top swimming coach who trains several Olympic hopefuls — and bronze medal winner Taylor Ruck (Canada) — at Scottsdale Aquatic Club. They live in Scottsdale with their daughter, Kori.
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Life is a climb. Perhaps you’ve heard that phrase, or a similar variation, a million times or so. As 18th-century theologian Jonathan Edwards advised, “The way to Heaven is ascending; we must be content to travel uphill, though it be hard and tiresome, and contrary to the natural bias of our flesh.” What exactly does that mean? For most people, living in most places, it might be hard to picture the notion that life is an uphill battle. Yet here in Arizona, the climbing nature of life is a metaphor that blends with reality — for hikers, at least. Indeed, what better place to reflect on the exhausting, up-and-down Sisyphean repetitiveness that is our existence than at the top of a long, upward hike.
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Zacher is one of those people who has to be constantly pushing themselves. She now runs marathons, and was an alternate for the Mexican Olympic team, qualifying at age 44. She often trains on the spectacular trails in the hills and mountains of Scottsdale and beyond, in between her busy schedule as a motivational speaker, teacher and sports psychologist. So, who better to help match up hiking trails that fit stages of life? Zacher was presented several themes, and asked to name a hike that best fits each one. Commitment Hill This is a dual-purpose category: First, a hike that represents the ups and downs of a percolating relationship; and second, a good couples trail to experience pain, sweat and joy with your partner. Zacher’s choice: Camelback Mountain. “With most
hikes, it’s as easy as you want to make it,” she says. “But with Camelback, you have to be committed to be in the moment, willing to push yourself.” Details: There are two hiking options: the steeper Echo Canyon — watch out for ill-prepared tourists struggling in flip-flops — and the longer Cholla. The apex of each trail provides 360-degree views of Phoenix. For the average hiker, each trail is about a three-hour round trip, with more than a mile of vertical hiking. Location: 6131 E. Cholla Ln., Paradise Valley, 85253 Mid-Career Switchbacks While many long-term jobs provide a degree of stability, in today’s market they demand changes of direction, as well as finding new routes to reach goals. Zacher’s choice: Tom’s Thumb. As she will tell her clients, “Sometimes, you have a bigger goal — your ultimate goal where you want to be when you retire. In order to get there, you have to have several smaller goals. You think you’ve arrived, but you have to go down again, only to find you have more to climb.” This Scottsdale hike is a great visualization for that concept. Details: In this North Scottsdale series of paths, the main trail is 4.2 miles. The switchback-heavy trail has spectacular views, both of the beautiful desert blooms on the ground and long views of Four Peaks and Camelback. When you reach the top, you are rewarded with summit views of the McDowell Mountains. Location: 23015 N. 128th St., Scottsdale, 85255 Newborn Sprint What’s the best hike when you’ve got a baby at home? You want to get some exercise, but you don’t want to be away from the kid (or puppy, kitten, etc.) too long. Or perhaps there’s not another creature involved. Maybe you’re the newborn, ready to try this hiking thing, but not wanting to face an intimidating mountain for your first vertical steps. Zacher’s choice: Papago Park. “You go up and down in no time,” she says. “Swimming and running has been my main activity whenever possible. But when you have a baby, your mind is back home — you wonder if the baby is OK.” Papago, she says, is the way to go. And, as the baby gets older, it’s a nice place to introduce youngsters to hiking. “You can take the kids on a hike, and then go to the zoo after.”
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Details: The West Park Trail is 1.2 miles, with a relatively easy beginning. The second half of the trail is more challenging, with a few slopes that exceed a 5 percent grade. The West Park Loop Trail is also relatively easy, with a distance of 3.1 miles. Location: 625 N. Galvin Pkwy., Phoenix, 85008 Look Out Below: Breakup Basin The end of a relationship leaves many feeling they are in the depths, far below the surface of the happy world. Which hike provides the best visual for the feeling of being in a deep, dark hole? Zacher’s choice: The Grand Canyon. “You go down before you go up,” she says. But, as she tells clients, the journey will be worthwhile if you don’t give up. Details: There are multiple day-hike options on both the South Rim and North Rim. From the south, the Rim Trail is the easiest, the Grandview Trail the steepest and most difficult. As the park’s website notes, every year, 250 hikers have to be rescued (not the same hikers, of course). “The difference between a great adventure in Grand Canyon and a trip to the hospital (or worse) is up to you,” cautions the National Park Service website. “Do not attempt to hike from the rim to the river and back in one day.” Remember: It’s a long way down … and a long way back. Location: 20 S. Entrance Rd., Grand Canyon Village, 86023 Lookout (for the Unexpected) Mountain Life is nothing if not unpredictable. Which hike best represents the unexpected nature of the coming year? Zacher’s choice: The Seven Falls Trail in Tucson’s Sabino Canyon. “I always tell people that when changes come into our life, you have two ways to live,” she says. “You can embrace it and look forward to it, or you can resist it. Just like on a hike, you know you have to keep going or you’ll get stuck. Embrace the unexpected.” Details: This 7.8-mile trail in Northeast Tucson crosses Bear Creek seven times. After a series of switchbacks comes an uphill climb leading to the payoff, a stunning view of waterfalls. Location: 5900 N. Sabino Canyon Rd., Tucson, 85750
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2016 Viewing Area With time racing by, the month of January is perfect to pause and reflect on what happened in the last year. What’s the best place to visualize the near-past? Zacher’s choice: Alta Trail. “You have to reflect on the things that worked and didn’t work to be able to improve,” she says. “I coach kids, and they’ll have a race that sometimes is great and sometimes doesn’t come out well. So I’ll say, ‘Let’s sit and think about it.’ Or in my own races, I try to look for the things that worked and didn’t work in order to move forward.” Alta Trail is the perfect place to ponder. Details: This is a steep climb through South Mountain Park. The Alta Trail is a 9-mile round trip that is too challenging for beginners, which makes it enticing for experienced hikers who like solitude. Those who complete the steep hike to the ridgeline are afforded a view of the world at their feet, and the past in the rearview mirror. Location: 10919 S. Central Ave., Phoenix, 85042 New Year March Away with 2016, time to begin again. Which trail best symbolizes a fresh start? Zacher’s choice: Piestewa Peak Summit. “I love Piestewa Peak — it’s the first one I hiked when I moved here from Mexico,” she says. Formerly known as Squaw Peak, Piestewa represents the new climb we are about to begin: “You can always start anew. We love dates, and the New Year brings the opportunity to start fresh and think about goals you want to achieve. It’s a great time cosmically to make wishes.” Details: While there are various trails, the main one is a 2.4-mile trail leading to a 2,608-foot peak (named after Lori Piestewa, who died in Iraq). Often crowded, the trail begins deceptively easy, with an increasingly steep challenge.
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Black Mountain Trail Moderate – 2.3 miles Year-round Black Mountain Summit Park – Cave Creek Tom's Thumb Trail North Side Loop Trail Moderate – 3.9 miles March to October McDowell Mountain Regional Park Pinnacle Peak Trail Moderate – 3.9 miles March to October Pinnacle Peak Park – Scottsdale Spear S. Ranch Trailhead to Cave Creek Regional Park Moderate – 4 miles Year-round The Maricopa Trail
Lost Dog Wash Trail Easy – 4.5 miles Year-round McDowell Mountain Regional Park Dixie Mountain Loop Trail Easy – 4.7 miles Year-round Phoenix Sonoran Desert Preserve
Flatlander Easy – 1.25 miles Year-round Thunderbird Conservation Park – Glendale Sears Kay Ruins Trail Easy – 1.6 miles Year-round Tonto National Forest
Apache Wash Trail Moderate – 4 miles September to March Phoenix
MODERATE
EASY
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Cholla Trail Hard – 2.6 miles September to May
Union Peak Loop
Echo Canyon Park –
Moderate – 5.8 miles
Scottsdale
October to April
Cave Creek Trail and Skunk Creek Trail Hard – 10 miles Year-round Tonto National Forest
Phoenix Sonoran Desert Gateway and Tom's Thumb
Preserve
Sunflower Mine 4x4 Trail
Loop Trail
Hard – 28.7 miles
Deem Hills
Hard – 9.9 miles
March to October
Moderate – 4.3 miles
Circumference Trail
October to April
Tonto National Forest
Year-round
Moderate – 5.9 miles
McDowell Mountain
Table Mesa Trail
New River
February to November
Regional Park
Deem Hills Recreation Area Sunrise Mountain Trail Moderate – 4.3 miles March to October Hillcrest Park – Peoria
HARD
ADVANCED
NORTH VALLEY HIKING TRAILS Writer Grace Hill
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Writer Lara Piu Photographer Cathy Kreuger
A new restaurant and two-stage live music venue is slated to rock North Scottsdale. Located on Butherus Drive east of Scottsdale Road, BLK Live was brought over from Southern California by Skydoor Restaurants and Entertainment, where the company owns and operates several similar establishments in Huntington Beach and Ladera Ranch. “Our goal is to serve delicious and approachable food with the highest quality ingredients,” says Kevin Johnson, a Skydoor Restaurants and Entertainment principal. “We are providing the unique combination of a fine dining destination in a relaxed atmosphere with great entertainment.” At 20,000 square feet, BLK Live is among the largest establishments in the company’s portfolio. Growth plans are already in the works, with the addition of an expansive outdoor patio coming in the near future. The restaurant is managed by Robert “Cookie” Oliver, who also opened 13 Blue Martini lounges across the country and ran the High Street location in North Phoenix. “BLK Live brings a sense of classic rock ‘n’ roll nostalgia with a contemporary twist to the local music and restaurant scene,” Cookie says. “The cuisine is just as cutting-edge as the environment, with the use of liquor-infusion and pairing along with capitalizing on the latest and greatest dining trends. We love to keep things fresh and exciting.” Executive chef Daniel Hackett and sous chef Michael Casanova have crafted a sophisticated-yet-casual contemporary American menu, featuring hand-cut steaks, hand-formed burgers and black wagyu cattle beef, the “BLK” in BLK Live. The barbecue-stuffed burger is made with a Sailor Jerry spiced rum barbecue sauce, cheddar cheese and fried onions, and the el Jimador burger is marinated in el Jimador tequila and topped with tequila guacamole, bacon, pickled jalapenos, carrots, onions and pepper jack cheese. There’s also a meatloaf topped with a brown sugar glaze, a sautéed salmon served with couscous in a dashi broth, scallops served with butternut squash puree and smoked apple and fennel salad, and a large variety of appetizers, burgers, sandwiches and entrees.
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For the Waste Management Phoenix Open, they’ll offer a special package that includes parking, brunch, live music and shuttle service to and from the event. One of BLK Live’s most unique features is its concert hall and poolside Aqua Lounge. This is where you’ll find cabanas, oversized plush loungers and the icon-inspired art of Roman Pastucha, most likely the Valley’s only in-house restaurant residential artist. So far he has painted David Bowie; Janis Joplin; Jim Morrison; Kurt Cobain; AC/DC; Led Zeppelin; Prince, a portrait of the band, Cream with a young Eric Clapton; Ginger Baker and Jack Bruce. There are also two paintings of Jimi Hendrix — one in color and another in black and white — and a portrait of The Rolling Stones. “I have collaborated on several of the Skydoor Restaurants and Entertainment concepts, and each one is unique and innovative with its own theme,” Roman says. “Not only due to locale, but in an effort to keep each one true to the cuisine and ambiance BLK Live is trying to manifest. It is a rather fresh approach to design. When I first walked the site with designer Diana Benice, we discussed having portraits of rock icons to showcase in each one of the cabanas — crown jewels in a unique setting was the design sensibility.”
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His paintings are so realistic, they appear to be photos. Roman uses a unique airbrushed technique on acrylic that is then reproduced onto plexiglass, known as hyperrealism. The paintings have the look of a photo and are backlit at night for a dramatic effect. “It’s a thoughtful process, especially if I believe the art warrants a different medium,” he says. “The glimmering reflective surface of the pool paired perfectly with the backlit imagery, almost like modern-day stained glass. I continually saw the evening pool setting and the large panels of light reflecting off of the pool, so I thought, how do I create the optimal effect that I’m looking for? I love the problem-solving element of settings and overall venue design.” blkliveaz.com
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Writer Lara Piu
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Known for his refined, stylish sound, trumpeter Chris Botti will headline the upcoming Arizona Musicfest 2017 Winter Festival for the first time. The instrumentalist, credited for his ability to cross pop, classical and jazz boundaries with grace, will perform recording selections from his hit albums, including his Grammy winner, “Impressions.” Since the release of his “When I Fall In Love” album in 2004, Botti has grown to become the largest-selling American instrumental artist and has earned Gold, Platinum and Grammy awards. He’s recorded and performed with the likes of Sting, Barbra Streisand, Tony Bennett, Lady Gaga, Josh Groban, Yo-Yo Ma, Michael Bublé, Paul Simon, Joni Mitchell, John Mayer, Andrea Bocelli, Joshua Bell, Aerosmith's Steven Tyler and Frank Sinatra. Botti has appeared at Carnegie Hall, Hollywood Bowl, Sydney Opera House, Real Teatro di San Carlo in Italy and many other prestigious venues worldwide.
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Jan. 27 Chris Botti 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Rd., Scottsdale Tickets: $34-$82 In his last album, “Impressions,” Botti is joined by Andrea Bocelli, Vince Gill, Herbie Hancock, Mark Knopfler and David Foster. The album won the Grammy for Best Pop Instrumental Album in 2013. Botti’s performance will kick off the 18 acts performing in the 26th annual Arizona Musicfest Winter Festival, which will run January 27 through March 10. The festival will feature classical, jazz, bluegrass, Broadway, pop, folk and rock ‘n’ roll tribute band concerts. The legendary multiple Grammy Award-winning Manhattan Transfer will appear, along with vocal powerhouse Cantus, world-renowned classical violinist Midori, Kennedy Center honoree Mavis Staples, and Grammy Award-winner Patti Austin with The Festival Orchestra celebrating Ella Fitzgerald’s 100th birthday. Decades of Divas, which features the femme fatale likes of Billie and Aretha to Celine and Barbra, will close the season. Under the direction of Maestro Robert Moody, the Arizona Musicfest Festival Orchestra will also feature musicians from prestigious orchestras nationwide, including the Chicago Symphony, Cleveland Orchestra, National Symphony, Metropolitan Opera Orchestra and San Francisco Symphony, among others. azmusicfest.org January 2017
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In countries like Italy and Hungary, it is customary to ring in the new year with a bowl of lentils as a symbol of luck and prosperity. The nutrient-dense legumes are rich in fiber, protein, folate, iron and zinc. With chillier weather upon us, a steaming bowl of Lentil Soup is both comforting and nourishing, especially when accompanied by a generous dusting of Parmesan cheese and a hunk of warm, crusty bread.
Lentil Soup Yield: 8-10 servings Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 cups onions, diced 1 cup carrots, diced 1 cup celery, diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 2 tablespoons tomato paste ½ cup white wine (optional) 1 14.5-ounce can crushed tomatoes 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning 2 cups green or brown lentils, drained and rinsed 2½ quarts chicken stock, low sodium 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar salt and pepper to taste grated Parmesan cheese for garnish Directions: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery and garlic and sauté until softened, about 6-8 minutes. Add the tomato paste and stir to combine. Deglaze with white wine (optional) and cook for 2-3 minutes until the alcohol burns off. Add the crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, lentils and chicken stock. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and simmer for one hour until the lentils are tender.
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At the last minute, add the red wine vinegar. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Ladle the hot soup into individual serving bowls and garnish with Parmesan cheese.
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Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker
Enjoy a restaurant-worthy meal at home in less than 30 minutes with this recipe for Chicken Piccata. The chicken is pan-fried, then topped with a zesty lemon butter caper sauce, delivering loads of flavor without breaking the bank. Pair the chicken with mashed potatoes, pasta or rice and a crisp glass of white wine.
Chicken Piccata Yield: 4 servings Ingredients: Ÿ cup all-purpose flour, for dredging 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, butterflied and cut in half or 4 chicken cutlets (about 1.5 lbs) salt and pepper to taste 2 tablespoons olive oil Ÿ cup white wine (optional) ž cup chicken stock, low sodium 3 tablespoons capers, drained and rinsed juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons) 2 tablespoons butter, cold 1 teaspoon parsley, minced
Directions: Spread the flour onto a plate. Season the chicken on both sides with salt and pepper, then dredge lightly in the flour, shaking off the excess. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Gently place the chicken into the skillet and sear on both sides until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Depending on the size of the skillet, this may need to be done in batches. Remove the chicken to a plate and set aside. Deglaze the pan with the white wine (if using) and chicken stock. Using a wooden spoon or spatula, scrape the
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brown bits off the bottom of the pan. This will help flavor the sauce. Stir in the capers. Place the chicken back into the pan and simmer for 4-5 minutes, or until the chicken is warmed through and the sauce has reduced by half. Remove the chicken to a serving platter. Add the lemon juice to the sauce. Remove the pan from the heat, then add the cold butter. Swirl the sauce gently until the butter is melted and the sauce has thickened. Pour the sauce over the chicken. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.
Writer and photographer Monica Longenbaker
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North Scottsdale-Carefree Office 34305 N. Scottsdale Road Scottsdale, AZ 85266
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