Sedona Art Center, Arizona

Arts and culture thrives in Sedona, Arizona! And just to prove it, the Sedona Art Center has become a popular place to visit in this “red rock country.” Sedona is a picturesque city surrounded by some beautiful monoliths in the true desert tradition. Folks visiting love to tour the nearby canyons and experience the charm of the breathtaking scenery. But you still must take time to partake in the cultural aspect of this area.

People come from all over the world to experience the special art events held at the Sedona Art Center. Well-known outdoor painters appear at the Sedona Plein Air Festival each year. In May, the center does some fundraising with the Pin-Up Show. Northern Arizona artists come to show their work. You can even purchase their unique work.

Art collectors flock to Sedona each December to purchase fine art at the Annual Small Works Show and Silent Auction. It doesn’t matter if you are new to collecting. There’s always something to learn, and always something to buy.

Any time of year you can visit the Community Exhibition Art Gallery where you’ll view private exhibitions that give you a real taste of Arizona’s best. Enjoy the delicate jewelry and the life-sized sculptures. You can browse fiber art and photography for a wide array of beautiful displays. There is truly cutting-edge fine art for the art lover.

For a wonderful experience, you must make it a point to attend the reception at the Fine Art Gallery. It’s free and open to the public in the evening on the first Friday of each month. When you meet the local artists, you’ll be invited to have a glass of wine and chat for a while.

Of course, if you’re a budding artist you’ll love the opportunity to take part in the Nassan Gobran School of the Arts. With numerous classes and workshops by nationally known instructors, it can be the start of a promising career. It doesn’t matter your medium. There’s something for everybody. Their purpose is “to nurture creativity and artistic development through the joy of discovery, learning, and sharing,” and it really shows. When visiting, you can take one of the convenient three- to five-day art workshops.

The Sedona Art Center has gone through many changes over the years. Starting in 1958, the original name was “Canyon Kiva” and it was established in the Jordan Apple and Peach Packing Barn. It became the creative hub of the community. The name changed in 1961 to what it is today, and was re-opened with a large celebration.

Don’t hesitate to stop by. You’ll find plenty of lodging like classy hotels, trendy resorts or quaint B&Bs. The choice is yours!