DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, Tucson, AZ

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a wonderful gem in our desert.  This museum that was once Ted DeGrazia's studio is located in the foothills of Tucson, AZ, just a few miles from I10.  The museum is open 10-4 daily, and is free and open to the public.  Creative energy resonated in every nook and cranny.  Here are some photos of the grounds, the museum itself, and a few of my favorite works of art.

Best Malls in the East Valley!

In the summer, it's a tad warm to walk around outside, so summertime malls include Chandler Fashion Mall and Scottsdale Fashion Square!

Other favorites include San Tan Village, and Keirland Commons, but I'll take Tempe Marketplace any day of the week, rain or shine, hot or cold! 

Here are some photos!  ENJOY!  Stay cool!

Jerome

A few years ago, while celebrating our anniversary in Sedona, AZ, we decided to take a little detour to Jerome.  It was lovely!  There are so many great shops and things to see.  If you get a chance, stop by the Jerome Mine Museum.  Here are a few of my favorite photos!  Enjoy!

Laughing Moon Chronicles

I met Todd VanHooser at an event late last summer.  I found his theme intriguing so I picked up a few of his books.  I am currently reading The Lamplighter Collection.  It’s funny, I’m not usually a procrastinator, but to be honest, I don’t want to finish this book, I want to savor every moment, I don’t know if I want this book of short stories to end.  I have high hopes that when I’m done, there’ll be more ghost stories to read.  I don’t normally read ghost stories, I am careful to read them during the day, so ghosts don’t haunt my dreams.

His collection of short stories is loosely based on a city he visited many years ago.  I find myself holding my breath while I read.  Every story has a great moment or two that everyone can relate to.

I just felt an odd chill in the air.  I must retreat from this dark room…

You can find Todd VanHooser on Twitter @Laughing_Moon, on Facebook at facebook.com/laughingmoonchronicles or on his website at www.toddvanhooser.com

Michelle Penington Interview Part Two

Michelle Penington found her voice through oil painting, and she has a fascinating story to tell.  Each painting is filled with color, light, and emotion.  Michelle finds inspiration in emotion.  Losing track of time, Michelle paints night and day, and is especially creative when her muses are active in her life.

Michelle has a degree in Psychology and Business Administration.  She discovered painting, using her creative side just after she finished college.  She has been painting professionally for over 15 years.  Michelle’s grandmother was a costume designer for major motion pictures Hollywood.  Michelle wears her grandmother’s pendant for luck and inspiration.  Splitting her time between Southern California and Central Arizona, has greatly influenced her palette, using bright colors over muted tones, the stories told in her paintings come to life.  She lives in places that make her soul happy.  

Michelle hosts private studio shows twice a year and is pleased to announce her new affiliation with Dreams Gallery, located in Old Town Scottsdale. 7077 W. Main Street, Suite 13.  Her gallery reception is scheduled for March 22, 2014 from 5-8 pm.

Michelle has some new collaborative pieces in the works.  Her recent collaborations are with two dear friends, Ashley Norton, a singer/songwriter, and Asa Plum, an architect and photographer.

Michelle has two children, a boy and a girl, both are active in the arts.  Her lifelong goal is to leave a legacy for her children and secure a place in Art History.  Someday, Michelle would like to pack up her children and her friends and tour the United States on a tour bus.  She hopes to expand her national gallery representation and has aspirations to show her work in Europe. Once a year, Michelle donates a large painting to charity.  

For more information about Michelle’s work or to commission a painting please visit her website at www.michellepenington.com.

Written by Judy Wood Artist/Poet/Writer (For more information see http://aztreasures.blogspot.com)