Art State Arizona

Call for Writers – UNDERCOVER ARTS Magazine 2026 Edition - Seeking Passionate Storytellers to Highlight Arizona’s Creative Economy Deadline to Apply is June 20, 2026 - Link in the comments! UNDERCOVER ARTS Magazine is back! Produced by Art State Arizona (formerly SAACA), this annual print and digital publication is Arizona’s most comprehensive guide to the creative economy, amplifying the voices of artists, businesses, and cultural organizations statewide. The 2026 theme, “Culinary Arts,” explores the powerful intersections of food, culture, memory, identity, and community. Through stories of ritual, migration, labor, celebration, sustainability, and creativity, we invite writers to examine how food shapes the human experience and connects us across generations and geographies. We’re seeking thoughtful, compelling, and dynamic voices to bring these narratives to life. If you have a passion for the arts, culture, and storytelling, we invite you to apply! What We’re Looking For Feature Writers – Deep-dive profiles, investigative pieces, and long-form storytelling on arts, wellness, and the creative economy. Interviewers – Conduct compelling interviews with chefs, artists, cultural leaders, and community changemakers. Trend Reporters – Cover emerging arts movements, economic impact studies, and statewide creative sector insights. Spotlight Writers – Short-form pieces highlighting individual artists, creative businesses, or innovative programs. Cultural Critics – Reviews and opinion pieces on Arizona’s evolving arts scene. We welcome both seasoned journalists and emerging writers with a unique voice, strong research skills, and the ability to craft engaging narratives. #callforwriters #artstateaz #writercommunity #culinaryarts

THANK YOU @theovchamber ! On behalf of our entire team @artstateaz thank you for this recognition. Receiving the Outstanding Legacy Award is incredibly meaningful to us, because our story has always been rooted right here. We began in 1997 as the Greater Oro Valley Arts Council when Bob Weede and Dick Eggerding founded the organization, with a simple but bold idea that the arts should not sit on the sidelines, but live at the center of everyday life. Over time, we grew into the Southern Arizona Arts and Cultural Alliance, and just last year, stepped into a statewide vision as Art State Arizona. But through every chapter, Oro Valley has been our proving ground. This community didn’t just support the arts. You invited us into spaces where creativity could lead. In transportation corridors, in business development, in parks and recreation, in public art, in festivals and events, in healthcare settings, and in youth education. You trusted artists to help shape how a community looks, feels, and connects. And because of that trust, the arts here are not an accessory. They are part of the infrastructure of this town. This award reflects something much bigger than our organization. It reflects a community that believes creativity belongs everywhere. It reflects leaders who said yes to new ideas. And it reflects the many artists, partners, and residents who continue to show up and build something meaningful together. As we look ahead across Arizona, we carry Oro Valley with us. Its spirit, its willingness to collaborate, and its belief that the arts can strengthen every part of civic life. Thank you to the Chamber for this honor, and to the many leaders and partners who have paved the way for our work. We are deeply grateful, and we are just getting started. #ArtStateArizona #ArtStateAZ #Legacy

Today is Arizona Gives Day! At Art State Arizona, we’re building a stronger, more connected community by making the arts essential to everyday life. Today, your support helps artists thrive, expands programs, and brings creativity to those who need it most. “As a public artist, I connect color and creativity with community and culture. My mission is to build and support a strong local identity while emphasizing the importance of artwork and how central it is in our everyday lives. Art State Arizona has not only helped me achieve my vision throughout the years, but has also supported my growth as an artist by providing a variety of opportunities to participate in ranging from custom events, to culture-driven festivals, to large-scale public art projects. One thing’s for certain, Art State AZ ensures that Arizona continues to be a destination location for colorful, creative works of art that reflect the cultural diversity of our modern world.” �- Jesse Perry, Professional Muralist @mrdowntownphx $3000 FOR CATALYST!! Catalyst Creative Collective, powered @artstateaz is Tucson’s hub for creativity and community impact. Year-round, we bring the arts to life through workshops, live music and dance, culinary events, fundraisers, and education programs that inspire thousands. More than 15 nonprofits, local businesses, and artists call Catalyst home, including the Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra, Tucson Youth Music, and Esperanza Dance Project. “Catalyst is exactly what it says it is, a space that sparks change, not just in art, but in the people making it. It’s a place where artists can show up fully, be seen, and be heard without fear or judgment, where vulnerability isn’t weakness, but the fuel for connection. Being in that space reminds me how powerful the arts are in bringing people together, breaking down walls, and building a community that’s not just creative, but fiercely human. Supporting Catalyst isn’t just supporting art; it’s supporting a space where people can truly be themselves and grow together.” - Marz (Syir), Filmmaker, Rapper @syir_nofear Give today and be part of Arizona’s creative future. #AZGives #AZGivesDay

Tucson’s most spirited night returns on June 6 — and VIP tickets are almost gone. The World Margarita Championship is back for an unforgettable evening of cocktails, culinary creativity, live entertainment, and community celebration. Top chefs, restaurants, and mixologists go head-to-head with bold margarita creations and signature bites designed to impress. Each margarita is thoughtfully paired with bites from Tucson Originals Restaurants and acclaimed culinary partners, creating flavor experiences that are savory, spicy, fresh, and unforgettable. Guests sip, savor, and vote for their favorites while exploring inventive takes on the margarita—from elevated classics to unexpected flavor combinations, smoky mezcal blends, spicy infusions, fresh citrus profiles, and completely original creations that redefine what this iconic cocktail can be. Featuring participating culinary artists and beverage innovators including Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen, Barnyard Crafthouse & Eatery, Bashful Bandit Barbecue, Bisbee Breakfast Club, Casa Asada, Cruda, Dante’s Kitchen & Cocktails, El Corral, Garden Bistro at Tohono Chul, Humo Cocina Mexicana, Kingfisher, La Cocina DWTN, Noble Hops, Reforma Modern Mexican, Seis Kitchen, Whiskey Del Bac, Zio Peppe, Westward Look, Rocco’s, The Royal Room, and many more. Thinking VIP? Don’t wait. VIP tickets are almost sold out and include exclusive early access along with a private dessert reception and live music to close out the evening. Presented in partnership with Tucson Originals Restaurants, this annual tradition celebrates Tucson’s vibrant food culture while supporting Art State Arizona’s mission to make the arts an essential part of everyday life. June 6 5pm VIP 6pm GA The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa VIP tickets are nearly gone. General Admission is still available, but tickets are moving quickly. Get yours before this year’s championship sells out. #ArtStateAZ #TucsonOrignals #TucsonFoodie

Estamos emocionados de colaborar con Aprender y Jugar para un evento mensual para los más pequeños. La Hora de Cuentos Bilingüe fue diseñada para niños de 1 a 4 años y sus cuidadores. Acompáñanos en Catalyst, en el Tucson Mall, para disfrutar de lectura, arte y vocabulario básico en español. Las familias podrán conectarse, aprender y jugar juntas. Este espacio acogedor fomenta la convivencia, la creatividad y el aprendizaje con alegría para todos. Muchas gracias @papemaria Esperamos verlos el miércoles 5-20-2026 en Catalyst de 11 a.m. a 12 p.m. WHICH MEANS… We are excited to continue our partnership with Aprender y Jugar for a MONTHLY event for littles. Bilingual Storytime was designed for children Ages 1 - 4 and their caregivers. Join us at Catalyst in the Tucson Mall for reading, art, and simple Spanish vocabulary. Families will connect, learn, and play together. This welcoming space encourages bonding, creativity, and joyful learning for all! Thanks so much @papemaria We hope to see you there May 20th at Catalyst from 11am - 12pm #ArtStatAZ #ArtStateArizona #Literacy #SpeakSpanish #KidsEvent

Creativity can heal. Creativity can connect. Creativity can transform how we care for one another. Over the next several weeks, we’ll be sharing stories from Art State Arizona’s growing Arts & Health initiatives — programs exploring the role of creativity in wellness, memory care, aging, Veteran healing, and community connection across Arizona. From the AWE at Home creative aging project at Hacienda at the Canyon, to supporting Veteran artists through the National Veterans Creative Arts Festival, to community movement workshops with Exit 12 Dance Company at Catalyst Creative Collective, these partnerships are helping reimagine the arts as essential infrastructure for healthier communities. Because the arts aren’t extra. They’re essential to how we heal, belong, and thrive together. #ArtStateAZ #ArtsAndHealth #CreativeWellbeing #CreativeAging

Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating the opening of 'A New Way To See Greater Phoenix,' our new art exhibit exploring the region through local perspectives. The evening featured a panel discussion with Kate Marquez (@artstateaz ), Matt Baquet @thornscrubs (@_eros_works_ ) and Laura Spalding Best @bestsofphoenix (@dbgphx ) on how art drives the economy and shapes how Greater Phoenix is experienced locally and globally. @anewwaytocity ___ #ArtExhibit #ANewWayToCity #ANWTC #LocalArt

Camps, Classes and Air Conditioning! Summer is the perfect time to explore and nurture your kids’ artistic side with Bravissimo Art Center at Tucson Catalyst in Tucson Mall! “Bravissimo is an art school designed for mastery of drawing and color techniques. We teach you everything you need to know about drawing and painting by building a strong foundational structure of skills and abilities. At the same time, we build your portfolio, work on personal projects, and get you prepared to either enter the field or sell your work to industry standards and specifications. Each separate program caters to a variety of student objectives.” - @bravissimoartcenter The Bravisimo Art Center curriculum is centered around reliable techniques that professional artists utilize in their careers. In this all-encompassing program, students aim to master each technique they learn so they can eventually work in their desired field of choice. Bravissimo Art Center is ESA-approved! The program can be covered for full reimbursement through the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program. ESA covers homeschooling costs—including art lessons, curriculum, and tutoring. Turn your child’s passion into progress—at no out-of-pocket cost! #artcamp #artclasses #artclassesforkids @bravissimoartcenter @shoptucsonmallaz @artstateaz

The World Margarita Championship! Saturday, June 6!! Set against the backdrop of the Santa Catalina Mountains, The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa is a premier desert destination blending Southwestern architecture with expansive, resort-style amenities. The property features multiple outdoor pools, a signature golf course, spa facilities, and a wide range of indoor and outdoor event venues. Its flexible meeting and event spaces, paired with panoramic mountain views and a polished yet relaxed atmosphere, make it well-suited for large-scale gatherings, conferences, and immersive experiences that reflect the Sonoran Desert landscape. The World Margarita Championship brings together the region’s top chefs and mixologists for an unforgettable evening of bold flavors, inventive cocktails, and spirited competition. Sip, sample, and cast your vote as Tucson Originals Restaurants present signature bites paired with creative margarita offerings that reimagine this classic cocktail. More than a tasting event, the Championship is a vibrant celebration of food, art, and community. Live music, interactive arts experiences, and guests can connect with the culinary talent behind the flavors during chef meet-and-greets. Presented in partnership with Tucson Originals Restaurants, this beloved tradition showcases Tucson’s culinary innovation while supporting Art State Arizona’s mission to make the arts an essential part of everyday life. General Admission and VIP experiences (which are half gone already!) See June 6th at The Westin La Paloma Resort & Spa 3800 East Sunrise Drive, Tucson, Arizona 85718 @tucsonoriginalsrestaurants @westinlapaloma @tucsonfoodie @exploreorovalley

What happens when young musicians get up close with orchestral percussion? A lot of curiosity, creativity, and smiles! The inaugural Salon Series @tucsoncatalyst brought together Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra Principal Timpanist Russell Turner and students from Tucson Youth Music for an interactive evening exploring the world of orchestral percussion. From technique and performance insights to hands-on learning moments, students had the opportunity to connect directly with the music. Founded in 1979, the Southern Arizona Symphony Orchestra (SASO) is a community orchestra dedicated to inspiring audiences and artists through accessible and dynamic classical music experiences across Southern Arizona. Tucson Youth Music is a nonprofit organization providing free music education opportunities to underserved youth, helping students build confidence, creativity, and lifelong connections to music through mentorship and performance. The Salon Series is all about connection, mentorship, and creating opportunities for artists and young creatives to learn from one another through shared experiences. Hosted at Catalyst Creative Collective in the Tucson Mall. The first in a series of videos highlighting our Salon Series at Catalyst. @southernarizonasymphony @tucson_youth_music @shoptucsonmallaz #artstateaz #symphony #orchestra #youthmusic

Arizona’s creative spirit shines brighter because of the people who dare to build, inspire, advocate, and imagine a better future for our communities. Congratulations to the winners of the Arizona Creative Excellence Awards, honoring the individuals and organizations moving Arizona forward through creativity, leadership, and impact. Building on more than 40 years of recognition through the Governor’s Arts Awards, these honors celebrate the changemakers who strengthen culture, community, and connection across our state. This year’s winners represent the very best of Arizona’s creative ecosystem: Governor’s Award Theatrikos Theatre Company | Flagstaff, AZ Recognized for their lasting contribution to arts and culture, bringing storytelling, performance, and community together in Northern Arizona. @theatrikos Oonagh Award Love Where You Live | Globe, AZ Celebrated for uplifting community identity and inspiring civic pride through creative placemaking and local engagement. lovewhereyoulive_1 Shelley Award Colleen Jennings-Roggensack Vice President for Cultural Affairs at Arizona State University and Executive Director of ASU Gammage, honored for a career dedicated to expanding access to arts and culture while transforming Arizona’s creative landscape. @cjroggensack @arizonastateuniversity Since 1981, the Governor’s Arts Awards have celebrated more than 225 artists, educators, advocates, organizations, and leaders whose work reminds us that creativity is not an extra, it is essential. Here’s to the visionaries who continue shaping Arizona’s cultural future for generations to come. #arizonaartist #governorsawards #artstateaz #supportthearts

In the heart of a global science campus, Emerald Earth: A Photography Exhibition transforms the Ventana Gallery into a space where art and innovation meet. Presented by Roche Tissue Diagnostics and Art State Arizona, this exhibition unites colleagues and artists to explore the beauty and resilience of our planet through the color green. By blending scientific precision with creative vision, Emerald Earth sparks dialogue and strengthens community—proving that creativity is essential to progress. Join us for the Opening Night Reception, May 20, 5–7 PM, at Ventana Gallery, Oro Valley. #ROCHE #ArtStateAZ #Photography