John and Lauri Maeder craft art in ‘desert lace’ / Sedona Red Rock News
John and Lauri Maeder have discovered a way to reveal unique aspects of cacti innards in their artwork and jewelry. Their process of removing the plant’s outer layers is a closely-guarded secret, developed about a decade ago over the course of 23 months.
Native art has a rich history; this is what its future looks like / Arizona Republic
Many Native artists rely on sales of their creations to put food on the table, pay for gas and utilities, and clothes on their kids’ backs. But contending with the tsunami of cheaper fraudulent art is just one challenge in a world where Native artists must navigate what Apache artist Douglas Miles calls, “Native American Industrial Arts Complex.”
Phoenix Art Museum’s curator of engagement knows how to create community ‘in a genuine way’ / Arizona Republic
Giovana Aviles is the new curator of community engagement at the Phoenix Art Museum. The position allows her to build connections with the Phoenix metro arts community by facilitating workshops, creating events, and collaborating with community organizations.
Peter Kjome, President and CEO of The Phoenix Symphony / KFYI
Peter Kjome, President and CEO of the Phoenix Symphony since 2023, brings a multi-faceted background to his role with experience in the nonprofit and private sectors, while blending a deep love of classical music with a passion for business.
Creighton University showcases ‘The Beauty of Autism — Visual Art and Poetry’ at Park Central in Phoenix / Arizona Digital Free Press
Creighton University is showcasing Blair Bunting: Journeys, Neurodivergence and Belonging at its Virginia G. Piper Charitable Trust Health Sciences Building at Park Central. Curated by Dr. James Burns and featuring the work of acclaimed photographer Blair Bunting—both of whom openly discuss their experiences living with autism—the exhibition provides a unique opportunity to explore neurodiversity through creative expression.
The spectacular dance contest that brings nations together / BBC
There’s no better place to see hoop dancers at the top of their game than at the World Championship Hoop Dance Contest in Phoenix. Held over two days each February, the contest is the most prestigious celebration of complex Indigenous dance style that requires speedy footwork and skillful mastery of up to as many as 50 hoops.
Art from Scratch: Creative Cathy Sheeter exhibits at museum / Tucson WeeklyCathy Sheeter is part of an exclusive group of American master scratchboard artists, creating art that looks like a high-definition photo, particularly from a distance. Her work will be highlighted through Jan. 5 at the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum’s Ironwood Gallery.
Things to do:
Wednesday, Nov. 27 – Sunday, Jan. 12: ZooLights – Phoenix Zoo
Friday, Nov. 29 – Monday, Dec. 30: Las Noches de las Luminarias, Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix
Through Sunday, Jan. 5: Tianyu Lights Festival, Phoenix
Through January: “Micro to Macro” exhibit, Flinn Foundation, Phoenix