Paradise Valley March 2016

Paradise Valley MARCH 2016

PVLifestylePubs.com

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biltmore arcadia

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Expressions of

Art

COLLECTING THE WEST MASTERWORKS OF MODERN ART WONDROUSLY WHIMSICAL WIND BELLS

B o n n e r D a v i d Galleries Traditional x Contemporary

Romona Youngquist

“Timeless� / oil on canvas / 30" x 30"

7040 E. Main Street x Scottsdale, AZ 85251 x www.bonnerdavid.com x art@bonnerdavid.com x 4 8 0 . 9 4 1 . 8 5 0 0

Lifestyle Letter

Celebrate The Arts

biltmore arcadia

I

t was a bitterly cold December day in Paris, yet the inside of The Louvre was filled with the warm glow of lights and the bustle of people. I remember just standing there in the corridor, absolutely speechless in the presence of such a great work. No, it wasn’t the Mona Lisa, it was something lesser-known to the general public— Antonio Canova’s Cupid and Psyche. I remember it was the first time a work of art had really spoken to me. I couldn’t explain what it was about that sculpture— maybe the way the cold, hard marble revealed such a depth of love and passion as the two figures locked in an embrace— that touched my soul so profoundly. As I traveled throughout Europe, I was lucky enough to experience many famous works of art—from Botticelli’s La Primavera, to Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel and Pieta, to Leonardo da Vinci’s Mona Lisa—yet none of them spoke to me the way this sculpture did.

During my year abroad, I not only gained a greater sense of appreciation for the works, but also for the artists. To this day, it still amazes me how someone could dream up something so spectacular and then translate it onto a medium. Take, for example, Michelangelo’s David. If you look closely at the sculpture, you can see each protruding vein on his hand, each curve of his throat and each ripple of muscle, as if he was about to be set in motion. And to think that one man created this masterpiece out of a piece of marble just amazes me.

In this spirit, our March “Arts” Issue recognizes both Paradise Valley artists and their works, featuring stories on contemporary artist Sara Abbott, Ballet Arizona’s master of dance IB Andersen, and the talented artisans churning out hand-crafted wind bells at Cosanti.

MARCH 2016 editor

Danielle Accovelli | Danielle.Accovelli@LifestylePubs.com sales director

Eric Williams advertising sales

Kat McMahon: kat.mcmahon@lifestylepubs.com Meg Zucker: meg.zucker@lifestylepubs.com contributing writers

Kathleen Blair, Michelle Guerrero, Kory Kilmer, Tara Miller, Alison Stanton, Teresa K. Traverse contributing photographers

Reese W. Candee, Rosalie O’Connor, Aimee Madsen, Gabe Mikesell, Elizabeth Hays Nord

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF SALES OFFICER

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor

ART DIRECTOR

| Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker, Kim Foster, Megan Seymour

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EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT APPLICATION ARCHITECT

Danielle Accovelli, Editor

| Matthew Perry

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DESIGN SPECIALIST

Until Next Month,

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| Melanie Carlisle | Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

ON THE COVER An original work by Cosanti PHOTOGRAPHY BY AIMEE MADSEN

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

TALK TO US

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Paradise Valley’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors.

Information in Paradise Valley Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

JILL

BRENENSTUHL

P V

L U X U R Y

R E A L

E S T A T E

Helping You Find the Perfect Home in Paradise

Resident of Paradise Valley for Over 20 Years

The Expert for Buying and Selling in Paradise Valley

Jill Brenenstuhl Paradise Valley Specialist

COLDWELL BANKER RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE

602-524-1677

jillbrenenstuhl@gmail.com PVLuxuryRealEstate.com

March 2016

Departments

18

8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Artist’s Palette

14

Times Past

26

Local Limelight

27

Sold Properties

28

Locally Owned

30

Giving Back

18 Desert Bells

32

Lifestyle Calendar

Cosanti honors the legacy of its founder

34

Parting Thoughts

with magnificent hand-crafted works.

22 Prima Perfection

Ballet Arizona stays on pointe with its new spring programs.

26 Musical Interlude

Experience the many sights and sounds of The MIM Center.

14

22

26

Lifestyle Publications Arizona | California | Colorado | Florida | Georgia | Idaho | Illinois | Kansas | Missouri | Montana | Ohio | Oklahoma | Texas | Utah

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Good Times

Friends of the Arizona Cancer Center's Evening with Friends Fundraiser

This spectacular western-themed event will feature a memorable evening of shopping, dining and dancing to raise funds and support The University of Arizona Cancer Center's mission to prevent and cure cancer.

Barbie Boyle, Nancy Geiger

Group of Supporters

Beth Komadina, Julia Shea Flynn

Shaun Woolsey, Couple

Suzanne Hanson, Colleen Donimari

Paige Cooley, Missy Cooley, Barbi Woolsey, JC Flake, Nancy Berge

Childhelp's 12th Annual Drive the Dream Gala The sold-out event benefitting abused and neglected children in Arizona featured a sumptuous dinner, a heartfelt awards ceremony, celebrity guests, including Melissa Peterman, John O'Hurley and Cheryl Ladd, and a special performance by Michael Bolton.

Melissa Peterman, Yvonne Fedderson, Maks Honorary chairs Dr. Stacey J. Stephenson and Governor Doug Ducey; Joey Ciolli (Grimaldi's) Chmerkovsky and Sara O'Meara Richard J Stephenson with Michael Bolton and Joseph Cinque

Founders Sara O’Meara and Yvonne Fedderson with co-chairs Char Davis Hubble, Deborah Pshebniski and Erika Williams John O'Hurley 8

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Carol Hebets and the Bondurants

DEAR DOCTOR, EHR IS FRUSTATING ENOUGH, DON’T LET BUYING OR SELLING A HOME STRESS YOU. Area Specialist You Can Trust CALL ME

602-845-9115

LLC

Arcadia Sold

www.ClaudiaPartovi.com claudia@partovi.com

Another Happy Physician

Around Town

AROUND TOWN

THE CAMBY HOTEL OPENS IN PHOENIX The Camby, the highly anticipated independent lifestyle hotel in Phoenix, is now open, revealing an elegantly urban respite where

the 2015 Beth McDonald Woman of the Year Award, presented by Shea Homes and the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort & Spa. The winner will receive a $2,500 check from Shea Homes and a weekend getaway from the Hyatt Regency, along with a special Woman of the Year trophy from Tiffany’s. For more information, please visit Kez999.com.

3RD ANNUAL ITALIAN FESTIVAL

tradition meets invention. A captivating blend of sophistication,

The Italian Festival brings Italian culture, food, fashion and more to

cutting-edge style and statement-making design, this one-of-a-

Scottsdale for its biggest year yet. Hosted by the Italian Association

kind hotel experience delivers refined revelry and is the first hotel

of Arizona, a local 501c(3), this two-day celebration will double in size,

in Arizona to be a part of Autograph Collection Hotels – Marriott

taking up the entire Scottsdale Waterfront on Saturday, March 19 and

International’s curated portfolio of hotels recognized for celebrating

Sunday, March 20. The event features everything from live music and

individuality. The Autograph Collection promises that their properties

unique, hand-crafted Italian items to wine tastings, authentic Italian

will be exactly like nothing else, and The Camby certainly delivers.

cuisine and artists straight from Italy. Of course, no Italian event

The Hotel offers 277 luxury guest accommodations; a new restau-

would be complete without gelato, Italy’s favorite dessert. With over

rant, Artizen, Crafted American Kitchen & Bar; two new bars; a fresh

10,000 visitors last year, the Italian Festival is expecting even higher

rooftop pool experience; Zest, a boutique spa; and a contemporary

numbers this year with more vendors and entertainment for everyone

fitness center. For more information, please visit TheCamby.com.

to enjoy. For more information, please visit ItalianFestivalAZ.com.

ANNUAL HEATHER FARR MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT The Xavier Preparatory Dad’s Club will host its Annual Heather Farr Memorial Co-Ed Golf Tournament on Friday, March 11th at the Arizona Biltmore Golf Club in Phoenix. The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. with registration, pre-tournament activities and lunch. There will be a shotgun start at 12:00 p.m., and an awards cocktail reception following the tournament. Ticket prices begin at $250 for a single golfer, Courtesy of Emeri Callahan

20TH CELEBRATION OF THE FRESH START GALA

with all proceeds benefitting Xavier's students. For more information, please visit XavierPrepDadsClub.org.

COLLEGE PROFESSOR WINS PRESTIGIOUS NATIONAL ART AWARD

The 20th Celebration of the Fresh Start Gala will honor two

Xavier College Preparatory alumna April Bojorquez (Class of 1999)

decades of support for Fresh Start Women’s Foundation on Saturday,

has been honored with the prestigious Creative Capital Award to

March 12, 2016 at The Phoenician. Guests will be treated to incred-

continue her collaborative work with artist Matt Garcia in exploring

ible live entertainment, dancing, a gourmet dinner and many more

relationships between art, ecology and society. In 2010, the two

memorable surprises throughout this special evening. The Gala will

artists created their desert ArtLAB in Phoenix to inform a discourse

also include a heartfelt presentation of Fresh Start’s prestigious

regarding dryland ecologies through multimedia performance

Founders’ Award, which will honor Nancy Hanley, an ardent com-

and visual and social art. April is currently a faculty member in the

munity volunteer and supporter. For more information, please visit

Department of American Ethnic Studies and an assistant curator at

FreshStartWomen.org.

the Marianna Kistler Beach Museum at Kansas State University.

2015 WOMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD

LOOKING FOR THE NEXT HIT BUSINESS REALITY SERIES

After 12 months of recognizing extraordinary women in the Valley for the differences they have made in the community, 99.9 KEZ and

Owners Joni Sucato and Susie Merwin of the Screening Room

Beth McDonald are getting ready to crown one special woman with

Agency are conducting an open call submission contest for a Reality

10

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

Series featuring Arizona-based businesses.

Have you always thought you or your business should be the next new reality series? If so, this is your chance! Rules for submission are: No professional footage; 1.5-2 minutes long; vertical phone footage, and a short one-page description of your business and

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“Our Family Values Bring You The Value You Deserve!”

SEASONAL TABLE DINNER SERIES AT DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN The Seasonal Table Dinner Series at the Desert Botanical Garden will feature a four-course dinner of fresh, locally-sourced seasonal cuisine with wine pairings. Each dinner will be held in a special Garden location chosen for its beauty. This year’s series invites guests on a journey to experience some of the world’s best-loved wine regions through food, drink and music.

Guests will enjoy cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and al fresco dining amidst the beauty of the desert. Musical entertainment accom-

CALL US or you’ll pay more!

panies your four-course dinner and each

Our “V

meal is created by a distinguished chef who will be on hand to discuss the menu.

On Thursday, March 3 travel through the rich flavors of Argentina with Chef Matt Taylor of Gertrude’s. For more information, please visit DBG.org.

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11

Artist’s Palette

PA I N T I N G T H E

ARTIST SARA ABBOTT ADDS A SPLASH OF COLOR TO THE VALLEY’S CONTEMPORARY ART SCENE WHERE DO YOU FIND INSPIRATION FOR YOUR WORK? ARTICLE ALISON STANTON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

S

ara Abbott and her husband, Bob Lynn, who is president and founder of La Grande Orange restaurants, reside on the border of Paradise Valley in a 1964 Al Beadle home.

Abbott, who is known for her contemporary pieces featuring a variety of colors and combination artwork, which includes both photography and paint, took some time away from her easel to answer a few questions about her art.

HOW LONG HAVE YOU WORKED AS AN ARTIST?

At first I had my own studio in Downtown Phoenix in 1998, where I worked as an independent artist and shared an old architect office space with three other painters. We would work in the space and hold a ‘one night only’ show every month. I now have a studio in Phoenix and in Santa Monica, California.

LOOKING BACK, WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO BECOME AN ARTIST?

My mother would always draw landscapes and flowers on my lunch bags, and as a 6-year-old, I drew a portrait of my father that was published in the newspaper. Then I really became focused on art when I took a photography class in college. I then left business school to focus on a Fine Arts Major specializing in photography, but also including ceramics, color theory and drawing.

CURRENTLY, WHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE MEDIUMS TO USE?

Right now, I prefer to work in inks, oils and pigment. Six months ago, I started my ‘Ink Paintings,’ a series of canvas pieces using waste ink from printers. I also work in mixed media, mixing my photography with painting.

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

My husband and I travel a lot. I like to say we travel for food, art and music. There is always so much inspiration and learning that can come from traveling. Our favorite place right now is London. The sophistication of the Mayfair neighborhood contrasted with the grittiness of East London—we love that. I am also inspired by other artists and had the privilege of meeting Chuck Close last year; what a powerhouse!

DO YOU HAVE A PHILOSOPHY ABOUT YOUR ARTWORK?

Show up to the studio and work; let yourself be free to create with a mission in mind.

WILL YOU COMMENT ON THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTEMPORARY ART AND WHAT IT MEANS TO YOU?

Life would be pretty dull without modern art. It is a deep passion that drives me to want to get up in the morning and contribute something. I was a very competitive athlete throughout school, and I think that helps too.

WHO ARE SOME ARTISTS THAT YOU ADMIRE?

Artists who I admire include Ed Ruscha, Mike and Doug Starn, Marilyn Minter and Hunt Slonem. Musicians I especially like include Foals, Interpol, Chromatics, Nick Cave and Hiatus Kaiyote.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT ARIZONA?

Warm nights, open space and great light.

WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS?

It better be an LGO restaurant or I’ll be in trouble at home!

Seriously, I love Ingo’s for the best Greyhound I’ve ever had and the Little Ingo grass-fed burger—yum!

March 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

13

Times Past

A

kid originally from Western Pennsylvania who didn’t move to this side of the Mississippi River

until he was well into his forties might seem like an odd choice for True West Magazine’s “2016 True Westerner of the Year” award. However, for anyone who has met Abe Hays, they know the recognition is nothing short of a long-time coming.

Now a Paradise Valley resident, Abe’s love affair with the West began in 1935, when his family would travel to the base of the San Francisco Peaks just north of Flagstaff to stay on a ranch for a few weeks each summer.

“There is just something about the scenery, the native people and history, and just the general ambiance and lifestyle of being on a ranch and living that kind of life as a young boy. It would be pretty easy to say I was never able to get it out of me,” explains Abe, discussing what pulled him westward after those early days spent at Fern Mountain Ranch.

Following the lead of his father, who was also a collector, Abe began his own collection in the 1940s with the goal of gathering art and artifacts that were either made or used in the nineteen western states.

COWBOY

SPIRIT ABE HAYS COLLECTS THE HISTORY OF THE WEST ARTICLE KORY KILMER PHOTOGRAPHY REES W. CANDEE, GABE MIKESELL, ELIZABETH HAYS NORD

After a successful career in public relations, Abe moved to Scottsdale in 1976 and opened the Arizona West Gallery on Main Street, where he could continue to focus on his collection and become an advocate for the region’s often overlooked heritage of craftsmanship.

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

“There is just something about the scenery, the native people and history, and just the general ambiance and lifestyle of being on a ranch and living that kind of life as a young boy.

It would be pretty easy to say I was never able to get it out of me.”

Courtesy of Rees W. Candee

Over

a

half-century

later,

the Abe Hays Spirit of the West Collection has grown to over 1,200 artifacts and is featured as an ongoing exhibition at Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West. Divided into categories such as western gear made in

prisons,

western

movies,

parades, saloons and others, the collection offers many different examples of holsters, spurs, guns, bronco belts, knives, hats and billheads (invoices), among many others, some of which are exceedingly rare.

The highlight of the exhibition is a variety of saddles on display, some of which date back to the

Courtesy of Rees W. Candee

1800s. As a vital part of life in the Old West, the collection represents

directly off of these saddles. It offers an

many different saddle-makers and dif-

extension of this extraordinary collection to

ferent eras of production.

be shared with the public as people walk up

“When

we

were

developing

the

to or leave the museum.”

of the worthiest as their westerner of the year.

“That

magazine

has

become

rather

important over the years, and it’s just marvelous now,” says Hays. “(True West Executive

museum, I felt that the artwork on these

As one of the driving forces behind

Editor) Bob Boze Bell told me that it was long

saddles was deserving of being shared

Western Spirit, it is only fitting that the

overdue. I don’t know if that is true or not, but

with the public in different ways,” says

museum not only house the Abe Hays col-

I am very honored.”

Mike Fox, director of Western Spirit.

lection, but in many ways be inspired by it.

For more information on the Abe Hays

“I had sandblasted throughout the

After a lifetime of preserving and promoting

Spirit of the West Collection, please visit

property, on the sidewalks and in the

the western way of life, it is also clear that

ScottsdaleMuseumWest.org.

courtyard, different designs that we took

True West Magazine has indeed selected one

CONTINUED >

March 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

15

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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17

Cosanti Honors the Legacy of Founder Paolo Soleri with Exquisitely-Curated, Custom Goods ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE PHOTOGRAPHY AIMEE MADSEN

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

C

osanti is a world-renowned foundry, and studio of Paolo Soleri, nestled in the heart of Paradise Valley. But you probably don’t know the first thing about this hidden treasure.

“Cosanti is well-known around the world,” says Roger Tomalty, director of Paolo Soleri Studios. “But often people that are living in Paradise Valley are the least informed about it.”

It’s not hard to see why, either. A single blink-and-you’ll-miss-it sign on the side of Doubletree Ranch Road is all that informs drivers that it’s there. But you’ll want to make time for this place.

Park on the gravel road and be prepared to experience a feast for the senses. Soleri’s famed wind bells—not to be confused with wind chimes—line just about every inch of the foundry. You’ll see them immediately at the entryway, hanging from the trees.

When you enter the main building—the structures were all designed by Soleri—they’re strung up from the ceiling and are quite striking. Cast out of bronze or ceramics, the bells are usually shiny gold or green in color with intricate shapes etched onto them. Also hanging from many of the bells are thin sheets of bronze in triangular shapes. The bells can be less than a pound or up to a few hundred, depending on the additions to them. The look is industrial yet warm,

and the bells are instantly recognizable to anyone who’s familiar with Soleri, who lived at Cosanti until his passing at age 95 in 2013.

The short version of the artist’s story goes like this: Italian-born Paolo Soleri moved out to Arizona so he could apprentice under Frank Lloyd Wright. Soleri then decided to strike out on his own.

He married the daughter of a client who commissioned one of his first works and returned with her to Italy for their honeymoon.

While there, he was commissioned on a whim to build a ceramics factory, which got him started on his best-known creations.

After returning to Arizona, Soleri set up shop on a five-acre plot of land in Paradise Valley, where he designed all of the U-shaped, dark, Earth-colored buildings that now line the property. He then began inviting students to the foundry to apprentice under him, and although he passed in 2013, his legacy and practice still lives on today.

“It’s hands-on learning by doing,” says Tomalty of the students who come to study at Cosanti. On a recent visit, we watched students in heavy-duty gear pour bright orange liquid bronze into sand casts—Cosanti churns out about 250 bells per week, or about 13,000 to 15,000 per year, and each is a one-of-a-kind piece.

CONTINUED >

March 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

19

DESERT BELLS (CON TI N U ED)

“It’s a place that has to be experienced.

Everywhere you turn and look, there’s something profound and beautiful.”

“Those ceramics took on a desert, earthy feature,” says Tomalty, who has worked at the studio for 45 years.

There are 25 to 30 different bell shapes, all originally designed by Soleri.

“Each bell has a pattern, but the designs are going to change the surface. All of the designs you see on the surfaces are done by hand by the foundry workers. Hence, we call the bells Cosanti originals.”

Although the workers etch the designs into the bells, they’re created with a distinct look in mind.

“We very carefully train the new people so that the designs fall within a range that is recognizable as Cosanti Originals Paolo Soleri Bells,” says Tomalty, speaking over the near constant din of the property’s furnace.

The shape of the bells and position of the clapper—a cross-shaped device that’s inside the bell—determine the sound each one emits. Although many buy and place them outside, you also can spot them at Sky Harbor airport, the Mayo Clinic and the bridge at Scottsdale and Camelback.

Although best-known for their bronze bells, since they last forever, visitors will also find ceramic bells, coasters, hot plates, vases and cups for sale too.

Besides a learning environment, the foundry also serves as a community gathering place. The five-acre plot of land has been the site of numerous weddings, high school student workshops, receptions and dinners.

Cosanti’s next major project? Olive oil culled from the property’s trees that will be sold in ceramic jars crafted at the foundry.

“It’s a place that has to be experienced,” says Tomalty.

“Everywhere you turn and look, there’s something profound and beautiful.”

For more information, please visit Cosanti.com.

20

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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March 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

21

LIVING ART IB Andersen Takes Dance to New Heights as Artistic Director of Ballet Arizona ARTICLE DANIELLE ACCOVELLI PHOTOGRAPHY ROSALIE O'CONNOR

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Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

O

ne could easily say Denmark native and Artistic Director of Ballet Arizona IB Andersen is a master of his art, that being dance, of course.

“I actually started ballroom dancing when I was four and I liked it a lot,” says Andersen. “Then my mother took me to audition for the Royal Danish Ballet School and I got in; but I really didn’t know much about ballet until I started there.”

While at the Royal Danish Ballet School, Andersen continued to flourish as a dancer and eventually joined the Royal Danish Ballet at age 16. By the time he was 20, Andersen had become a principle dancer—the youngest one in the company’s history. From there, Andersen continued to build his reputation in Europe, until he finally caught the eye of New York City Ballet (NYCB) director George Balanchine, who is regarded as the foremost contemporary choreographer in the ballet world.

“New York City Ballet is one of the best companies in the world; and working with Balanchine, who I would say was probably one of the best choreographers that ever lived, and having ballets created on me by him was a huge privilege,” says Andersen.

After retiring as principle from NYCB and beginning a second career as a guest ballet master, Andersen decided that it was time for a change and moved to sunny Phoenix, Arizona. Once he was settled in Phoenix, Andersen accepted the position as Artistic Director of Ballet Arizona, where he is now in charge of the company and acts as main choreographer.

Although his career has been marked by incredible success, Andersen has never lost sight of the reason he is so passionate about dance—a pure love of the art form as a means of expression.

“Dance is the closest relative you could say to music, which in my opinion, is the ultimate form of art because it has so much variety in what it can express,” says Andersen. “Ballet is just like that, it’s a very pure art form and it hits you in a deeper sense than many other things do.”

Always one to share his wealth of knowledge when it comes to dance, Andersen strives to elevate the style, technique and skills of young dancers, while also enriching their lives and helping them discover their calling.

“I like working with young people and developing dancers,” says Andersen. “I’ve been privileged to work with some of the best in the industry, so I have an ability to give on, and I enjoy that because I really believe in dance.”

It is also safe to say that the fire dance ignites in Andersen will not go out anytime soon, as he continues to share his gift and love of the art form with both company members and audiences alike.

“I don’t think [my love of dance] will ever be diminished because it has become a part of me.”

CONTINUED >

March 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

23

LIVING ART

(CON TI N U ED)

A FIRST LOOK AT SOME OF BALLET ARIZONA’S UPCOMING PROGRAMS TODAY’S MASTERS MARCH 24-27, 2016

This exquisite program of contemporary ballets represents the continuing development of the art form and its dancers, featuring modern choreography that pushes the boundaries of classical ballet to produce an absolutely enchanting showcase that will appeal to all audiences.

“I think its very important as a dancer to have works created on you and choreographed for your body rather than ones that have been previously choreographed because it contributes to the evolution of the art form as a whole,” says Andersen.

ALL BALANCHINE MAY 5-8, 2016

After working closely with George Balanchine and demonstrating a remarkable affinity for his distinctive style, Andersen was appointed as a Balanchine Repetiteur and is now part of a select group of artists worldwide authorized to stage Balanchine’s masterpieces. This year, Ballet Arizona will perform three works by the lauded choreographer: Symphony in Three Movements, Apollo and Walpurgisnacht.

AN EVENING AT DESERT BOTANICAL GARDEN MAY 17- JUNE 4, 2016

Ballet Arizona will once again return to Desert Botanical Garden for an enchanting evening amidst its whimsical surrounds, which will serve as backdrop for Andersen’s beautifully choreographed works.

“I am very much looking forward to this show because it’s such an interesting venue,” says Andersen. “It’s amazing to be outside in the desert and just being there is an amazing experience.”

For more information, please visit BalletAZ.org.

24

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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March 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

25

Local Limelight

Hitting a High Note SWEET SOUNDS ABOUND AT THE MIM CENTER ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

P

hoenix’s Musical Instrument Museum, or the MIM Center, offers visitors what many museums don’t: interaction. Catch a show at their on-site venue, designed so there isn’t a bad seat in the house, or bang on some drums on the first floor before heading up to the second floor for a first-hand look at colorful instruments from around the world. When you approach most instruments in the collection, you’ll hear them through the provided headset.

“It’s a fantastic resource,” says Rich Walter, curator for USA and Canada at the museum. “It’s an opportunity to really share cultures from all over the world through the lens of the music they make.”

On the first floor, you’ll find a rotating gallery where a special exhibition is switched out roughly every 6 to 12 months. The current centerpiece of the Target Gallery is dedicated to the Stradivarius violin. In addition to seeing these famed violins—many believed to be made in the 17th and 18th centuries, producing the absolute best sounds—visitors can listen to them being played while learning about their history.

“We were really trying to identify a pinnacle of telling the story of music making, and the Stradivarius violin has, for so many people around the world for generations, represented something of a pinnacle of musical instrument making,” says Walter.

The MIM also features programming centered around this exhibit, including performances by notable violinists and a family weekend, dubbed String Break weekend, where kids can learn more about string instruments.

The focus on kids is undeniable. On the ground floor, there’s a playroom for kids and another room where kids and adults alike can 26

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

try out different instruments. They can hit gongs, run a mallet across an xylophone and pound on drums— a nice break from upstairs where visitors can look, but not touch, the instruments on display.

One of the shining stars of the bottom floor is the Artist Collection gallery that houses pieces from celebrities. You can see a blue Marchesa dress Taylor Swift wore, and a few instruments she’s played during performances. Johnny Cash’s guitar and black suit are there too, as is the piano where John Lennon composed “Imagine.” You can also feast your eyes on one of Elvis’ guitars, which the MIM Center helped restore the neck of. Guests can even watch MIM Center conservationists work through a glass window mere steps from the exhibit.

Upstairs is where all the different musical instruments from around the world rest. Expect to see, and hear, elaborate multi-pieces from Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Europe, Latin America and North America. The collection here is massive, but your senses will delight in taking in all the different cultures via their native music. Watch traditional European folk dancing, stand inches behind the drum kit that Primus drummer Tim Alexander once played, and even hear traditional Indian chants from here in the Southwest.

Besides its fascinating interior, the MIM is just a gorgeous space all-around. The light-filled interior features high, sweeping ceilings and stunning views of Phoenix’s many mountains. It’s a fitting space for one of the most impressive museums, not just here in Phoenix, but in the world.

For more information on the MIM, please visit MIM.org.

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ORIGINAL LIST

SOLD $$

Per Sq Ft

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$7,195,000

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DOM* 165 85 499 70 208 73 49 39 115 53 320 83 156 6 189 96 73 52

BDRMS

BATHS

5

8

6

6

5

5

5

6

4

6

4

6

4

5

5

6

3

3

4

5

4

5

6

4

5

6

6

5

3

3

4

4

4

4

5

4

Information obtained from Comparative Market Analysis for 01-01-16 through 01-31-16. *DOM=Days on Market.

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Locally Owned

Equipoise by Lyle London

Ult Reality Show

by Joan Waters

A LITTLE SLICE OF ARIZONA HISTORY, SHEMER ART CENTER IS HERE TO STAY

T

ARTICLE KATHLEEN BLAIR | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

hanks to Martha Evvard Shemer’s generosity, a bit of Arizona’s history was preserved in 1984 when she purchased and donated the property on Camelback Road and Arcadia to the City of Phoenix.

In 1919, investors purchased 640 acres of land, built a small home on the property for the foreman and named the area Arcadia. However, excessive expenses and the Depression halted the project, and over the years, two other families acquired the property, each making renovations. Today, many of the home’s original features can still be seen, which adds to the charm and coziness of this historic landmark.

Over the last 30 years, Shemer’s wish to provide a community center for Phoenix residents has been realized as the home transitioned into an arts center offering year-round art classes, workshops, lectures and exhibits. It has been named by USA Today as “One of the 10 Best Museums in Phoenix” and voted one of Phoenix’s “Points of Pride” by residents.

A look at some of the Center’s programs: NEW HORIZONS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ART EXHIBITION

Since the Center opened, each year high schools in the area submit two pieces of art by talented students to be shown at the Center.

These works are done in a variety of mediums and categories. Each is judged and the winners are awarded scholarships. This year’s 72 pieces are incredible works of art, many available for purchase.

ARIZONA OUTDOOR SCULPTURE SHOWCASE

The showcase features local artists’ work displayed in the Center’s garden. These beautiful, one-of-a-kind creations are available for viewing and purchase. Famous artists include Kevin Caron, Jeff Downing, David Knorr, Shelby Larson, Matthew Mosher, Hector Ortega, Charles Sleichter and Joan Waters, just to name a few. Their works 28

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

cover different styles and mediums, from brightly colored ceramics to beautiful metal sculptures. This exhibit, with pieces changing as the art is sold, will be on display through November 2017.

FINE ART IN THE GARDEN

On Saturday, March 12th, from 9a.m. to 4p.m., the Center invites you to enjoy the work of 20 local artists who will make their pieces available for purchase. The art featured will include oil paintings, pastels, watercolors, fused glass, ceramics, jewelry, metal, printmaking, wood, sculptures and quilting. There also will be a raffle, food vendors and live music.

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE

Classes are held year-round and are taught by professional artists. Classes offered include drawing, painting, print-making, sculpture, ceramics, mixed media and photography. For children, the Center also offers after-school art classes and Spring Break and Summer camps.

“We want the community to embrace the Center not only for art classes and exhibitions, but also for our gift shop or enjoying the views and ambiance of our sculpture garden,” comments Shonna James, executive director of the Center. “The Shemer Art Center is also available to rent for parking needs, weddings, rehearsal dinners, board and corporate meetings.”

The Shemer Art Center is truly a charming artistic experience.

Whether viewing an exhibit, taking an art class or attending a lecture or workshop, each visit will be a memorable one at this slice of history that Martha Evvard Shemer gifted to us all.

For more information on classes and events, please visit ShemerArtCenter.org.

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29

Giving Back

As Sweet As A

ookie GIRL SCOUTS TROOP 634 LENDS A HAND TO THE PHOENIX COMMUNITY ARTICLE TERESA K. TRAVERSE PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

B

right green cookie boxes filled with Thin Mints and Samoas might be the first image that appears when you hear the words “Girl Scouts.” However, this organization is about much more than just peddling these tasty treats.

The national Girl Scouts organization was founded in 1912 with hopes of inspiring girls to find their “strengths, passions and talents.” The Phoenixbased Girl Scouts-Arizona Pine Council includes more than 25,000 girls in kindergarten through twelfth grade, and about 11,000 adult members, troop leaders, mentors and program leaders.

Michelle Hubbard is one of those dedicated troop leaders, serving as leader of Troop 634 since 2006. She describes the whole experience of watching the girls in her troop grow over the last ten years as simply “amazing,” recalling one experience in particular with a shy girl in foster care who she saw blossom and go on to become the second best cookie seller of the bunch.

“It was so neat to see her rediscover herself, have some confidence and know that she’s not the horrible person she was told she was.”

That transformation is a perfect example of how the Girl Scouts aims to help young women thrive. “[Girl Scouts] gives them really good life skills that you may not learn at home,” says Hubbard. “Some parents don’t teach those things and schools don’t teach them either. So here’s another avenue to help women feel

30

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

empowered and confident, and to give them the tools they need to survive through high school, college, jobs and beyond.”

When the girls first join, they start out as brownies and earn “badges” for completing tasks like arts and crafts or hiking. As the girls grow older, the program becomes less structured and more tailored to the individual members’ interests. Some troops venture out into the great outdoors, others work with the local police departments, and all of the troops complete community service projects, which is Troop 634’s specialty.

“My girls love volunteering.

They just cannot seem to get enough of it. They have really big hearts and have a lot of fun doing different volunteer activities.”

Although her troop is based in the West Valley, they volunteer around the entire Valley. Recently, the troop donated about 79 backpacks for a back-to-school drive and sent about 20 stuffed animals to the Buckeye Police Department to give to kids in crisis situations.

They’ll also be donating 2,000 Easter crafts to St. Vincent De Paul.

These numbers alone are impressive, but become even more so when you consider the fact that Hubbard’s troop is made up of just five girls, all 15 and 16 years-old.

And the troop’s biggest fundraiser? It’s most iconic one, of course—cookie sales. According to Hubbard, her troop gets roughly 75 cents per box during the February sales and uses the money they raise to help fund their community service projects.

“We’re always trying to do an awful lot with a small amount of money,” says Hubbard. “It’s really rewarding to see them take the wheel and watch them just drive all these things.”

Girls age out of the program at age 18, but they can continue to volunteer with the Girl Scouts as adults.

“You’re always green,” says Hubbard. “When they’re in a troop, they build lasting relationships … I have some core kids who have been in Girl Scouts for ten years. They’re really like a group of sisters.”

For more information on Girl Scouts- Arizona Pine Council, please visit GirlScoutsAZ.org.

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March 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

31

Lifestyle Calendar

March MARCH 1 - APRIL 1

MARCH 5

SPRING TRAINING

SPRING TRAINING FESTIVAL

PHOENIX, SCOTTSDALE

SCOTTSDALE

There’s nothing better than a thrilling game of baseball under the

Scottsdale’s award-winning Spring Training Festival has returned for

warm Arizona sun, and that is exactly what Spring Training is all

another grand-slam event. This fun and festive celebration brings to-

about. Scottsdale is home to the San Francisco Giants, Colorado

gether the best of baseball to kick-off Cactus League Spring Training

Rockies and Arizona Diamondbacks, while Phoenix hosts the Chi-

and another season of America’s Favorite Pastime with family-friend-

cago White Sox, Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers.

ly activities, live music, food trucks and more. ScottsdaleAZ.gov

CactusLeauge.com

MARCH 10 CAREER CONNECTORS SCOTTSDALE Come and discover Career Connectors, a nonprofit organization connecting professionals to high-quality resources and hiring companies. Each event includes professional career speakers with presentations on relevant job search topics, three to four featured hiring companies, networking, resume help, career coaches, LinkedIn coaches and business portraits. CareerConnectors.org

MARCH 11 - 13 46TH SCOTTSDALE ARTS FESTIVAL SCOTTSDALE Recognized as one of the top art fairs in America, this fabulous weekend-long festival celebrates the best of art in all its forms, featuring

MARCH 4 - 6

175 jury-selected artists, live music and entertainment, local gourmet

OUT WEST BALLOON FEST

food trucks, creative activities for kids, free admission to SMoCA and

GLENDALE

more. ScottsdaleArtsFestival.org

Watch as the sky over the University of Phoenix Stadium becomes dotted with over 50 brightly-colored hot air balloons. Not only will spectators witness the launch of these beautiful balloons, but they will also be able to see them land and glow on Friday and Saturday evening. OutWestBalloonFest.com

MARCH 5 & 6 58TH ANNUAL HEARD MUSEUM GUILD INDIAN FAIR & MARKET PHOENIX Artists from across the country will gather at the Heard to demonstrate their talent and display their artworks at this acclaimed festival. Patrons attending will be

MARCH 11

able to view and purchase these works

CONSERVATION SCIENCE NIGHT

done in a wide variety of mediums, including jewelry, pottery, weav-

PHOENIX

ing, painting, carving and sculpture. Heard.org

Put on your science hat and get ready to become a conservation scientist during the SciTech Festival at the Phoenix Zoo. Participate

32

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

in hands-on activities, meet real conservation scientists and discover all the ways you can participate in conservation at this most fun and informative event. PhoenixZoo.org

business directory ART & PHOTOGRAPHY Bonner David Art Galleries (480) 941-8500 bonnerdavid.com

DENTISTS & ORTHODONTICS Beischel Family Dental (480) 948-1450 bfdentalaz.com

MARCH 15 - 20 A GENTLEMAN'S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER PHOENIX This knock- ‘em-dead uproarious show hits the stages of ASU Gammage Theater. The musical tells the story of Monty Navarro, a distant heir to a family fortune who sets out to take the money by eliminating eight pesky relatives, all while juggling both his mistress and fiancé.

ASUGammage.com

MARCH 19 & 20 SPRING PLANT SALE PHOENIX Take a piece of the desert’s beauty home with you during the Desert Botanical Garden’s Spring Plant Sale. Garden volunteers, horticulturists and professional landscape designers will all be on-hand to answer questions, assist in plant selections and offer advice throughout this positively blooming event. DBG.org

MARCH 24

Closet Masters (480) 991-4399 closetmasters.net Re-Bath and Kitchens (480) 998-8900 rebathandkitchens.com

OTHER

American Auction Co. (800) 801-8880 americanauctionco.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS

PET CARE

Fit Republic (480) 324-1200 citizenoffit.com

Applewood Pet Resort (480) 596-1190 applewoodpetresort.com

Pulse Fitness (480) 907-5900 pulsefitnessaz.com

REAL ESTATE

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS LaBlonde Homes (480) 585-1845 lablonde.com

Brenenstuhl PV Luxury Real Estate (602) 524-1677 pvluxuryrealestate.com Claudia Partovi Fine Properties LLC (602) 845-9115 claudiapartovi.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Distinctive Interiors & Design RESTAURANTS, (480) 948-0591 FOOD & BEVERAGE distinctiveinteriorsanddesign.com French’s Meat Shoppe (480) 949-8911 frenchsmeatshop.com JK Cabinets (480) 219-9580 jkkitchencabinets2you.com SALONS & SPAS Amazing Lash Studio Potato Barn (602) 529-4366 (480) 745-3240 amazinglashstudio.com

HOME SERVICES

Cesar Mazier Landscaping (602) 265-0920 cmazier.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS The Green Goddess (602) 971-8110 greengoddess.com

5TH ANNUAL BURGER BATTLE SCOTTSDALE The competition heats up at Hotel Valley Ho as some of the Valley’s best chefs and restaurants fire up their grills and go headto-head to win Best Burger in the Valley, as guests sample their way through the many booths serving up these juicy delights.

ScottsdaleFest.org

March 2016 | Paradise Valley Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

The Creative Process WORDS TARA MILLER

I

sat there for a couple of hours, doing yoga, eating lunch, thinking about writing this article. What inspires me to paint? Or write songs? The creative process. Hmmm, hmmm.... twiddle, doodle, blank page. Truth is, I don't know how the creative process happens, it just does. There is no one way that my creativity comes to fruition.

Sometimes I can sit down and spit out a song or a painting in a short time. Other times, it's labored and takes weeks. I don't know how it's going to turn out in the end…never how I imagined it in the beginning. And that's okay; that’s what makes it fun.

Sometimes I surround myself with inspiring images: a sky I want to fall into, flowers I think are pretty, a certain look or glance, a flowing dress, a movement, a regal animal, the curves of a beautiful instrument... I paint what I want to see on my own walls. It's not for you. It's for me. Often they coincide with what is going on in my life.

What inspires me to paint? People. Nature. Music. Poetry. Obsession.

Passion. Sadness. Death. Heartbreak. Loving. Living. I don't paint to make you want to stand up for some political agenda, or because all the designers say this style is the new trend, or because these are the sizes and colors consumers are buying at the moment. If I did, there would be no passion, no yearning, no desire to get it out. Because then it would be for you, and not me. I'm selfish with my creativity. I'm only doing it to get it out of my system; because I need to. I can't ignore it. I don't feel right if I do.

Sometimes I look at a freshly gessoed canvas, or sit in front of the keyboard with no lights, only candles, and say, “Whoever would like to be a part of this process right now, you are welcome to join.” I've had people come up to me on the street and say, “That looks exactly like my dead sister!” The painting they are referring to is called “Life is Fleeting,” which I painted at a time in my life where a handful of relatives and friends all died in a short span of time. Coincidence? I don't think so. Divine interaction is more like it. The music that I write and the paintings that I birth are like bookmarks, reminders of a time in my life where I loved deeply, was heartbroken, pensive, inspired, ebullient, missing someone, or happy to meet someone new.

I live. I feel. Therefore, I must create. Living life is my muse. People betray you.

They love you. People you love die. People you love, love you deeply back. It's all worth it because music and art help us remember, and figure it all out.

For more information about Tara and her works, please visit TaraMillerFineArt.CarbonMade.com.

34

Paradise Valley Lifestyle | March 2016

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