Superior AZ

We discovered an amazing little community last summer!  I'd love to share some photos of Superior, AZ!  Next time you have a free day, drive a bit east and visit!  Happy New Year!  2018

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)

Art Supplies!

As a mixed media artist, I am very interested in the best art supplies.  I recommend two shops:

First, Frenzy Stamper in Scottsdale, AZ!   I enjoy walking around the downtown Scottsdale 5^th Avenue area on weekdays, always stopping in to say hello to the friendly, helpful owner of Frenzy Stamper.  You’ll find fine art papers and envelopes, Copic markers, craft items, stamps and inks, glitter; in every form imaginable, paints, pearly paints, everything you could possibly hope for is at this lovely shop!  Frenzy Stamper is next to the bronze horse fountain on the north side of 5^th Avenue!  The store also carries some unusual 3D embellishments, the best selection in town!  If you need a dose of inspiration, this is the store for you!  You can visit the website for hours and class schedules at www.frenzystamper.com

Second, I really enjoy shopping with the helpful, knowledgeable staff at Blick’s in Tempe, AZ!  They have a great selection of art supplies including fine art papers, paints (watercolor, acrylic, and oil), canvases in every size, chalk pastels, pencils, pens, printmaking supplies, markers, clay and sculpting tools, architectural supplies, a great selection of art portfolios of all sizes, and the list goes on and on.  The manager has worked at Blick’s (formerly Utrecht) for several years.  You can Blick’s on the corner of Scottsdale Road and University or visit the website at http://www.dickblick.com/stores/arizona Be creative!  Happy shopping!

Renee Meredith ~ Local Artist

Renee Meredith has a full time job, however, next weekend she is making her first professional appearance as an artist at Jack O’Con in Albuquerque, NM.

Renee has always had a love for painting and decided in June it was time to refine her art skills.  She has a great sense of style in her art.  Her attention to detail and sensitivity to line and color gives her an edge.

In addition to having a booth at the con, she will also be showing some of her work at a local museum.  If you’re in Albuquerque next weekend, stop by and see her work at The Metropolis Art Gallery / Metropolis Comic Art Gallery  1102 Mountain Road NW, Suite 202, Albuquerque, NM.  The opening event runs from 7pm to 10pm October 30^th.

You can find more of Renee's artwork on her website: www.drinkndrawart.com

Renee Meredith quote: "I want to bring joy to people through art. It just warms my heart and brings me a great thrill when someone appreciates my artwork." 

Good luck at your first con Renee!

Courtney Cotter ~ Local Musician

It is my great pleasure to introduce another local treasure, Courtney Cotter.  Courtney has a rich, pure, sweet voice.  Courtney was born in Mesa, AZ, and comes from a large family.  She writes and composes her own songs and lyrics.  There is so much wisdom and sensitivity in her lyrics.  She met some of her musical accompanists in a Jazz class at Mesa High School.  She has two albums available.  Her first CD, Home I Roam, was recorded in NY.  Her latest CD, Rooftops, was self produced here in Mesa, Arizona.  Rooftops opens with an upbeat song titled Stand in the Rain and closes with an instrumental, the title track, Rooftops. The instrumental track, Rooftops, reminds me of that feeling you get on a chilly Christmas morning, so much joy and anticipation.  There is so much variety in this gem of an album.  Be sure to pick up your copy of Home I Roam and soon to be released Rooftops.  You can follow her journey at courtneycottermusic.com.