Arizona Graffitti - Jewelry

Artist's Biography

Dianne Ryan began making jewelry as a high school hobby in Long Beach, California. While her first love was painting, she continued her interest in beading when she moved to Arizona in the early 1980’s, learning new techniques along the way. She first sold her work to a boutique where she also worked, and her success there encouraged her to show her designs elsewhere. Eventually, she switched her focus from painting and began a business selling her jewelry designs as Arizona Graffitti. Inspired by the rugged landscape of the Arizona Mountains, as well as vintage pieces from a bygone era, she continues to sell today with her daughter Alisha Gates. Alisha also began learning beading techniques from her mother in high school, but began a serious pursuit in her early 20’s, when she began to sell as Stonewear Designs. She takes her cue from the local scenery much like her mother, and also experiments with wire working and home décor. She has passed along her creative heritage to her daughter (and Dianne’s granddaughter), India, who also loves painting and jewelry design.

Karen Boomer - Glass Art

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

My art is about self-discovery. I create it to excite the intellect and stir the imagination of its viewer. When viewers move around my pieces, they'll notice hidden patterns, light changes, and unexpected details they didn't see at first. As they discover the hidden possibilities in art, I hope they discover unrealized potential in themselves. This is my art's purpose: to inspire others to be who they're meant to be. By examining our inner selves, we recognize the transformative moments that lead to enrichment, enlightenment, and balance. When I fire glass in the kiln or flame, I explore abstract concepts about the changing nature of life and how we discover true purpose and fulfillment in the midst of change. Glass is uniquely appropriate for this vision. It is both solid and liquid, transparent and opaque, reflective and refractive. My approach to glass is analytical and intuitive, abstract and natural. Pieces have a feeling of both stability and fluidity. The intellectual challenge of solving a puzzle is mixed with fun. I've grown as an artist in the last few years and my art reflects this in scale and complexity. Subjects are drawn from new concepts I discover every day. Always with me glass continues to show me the way to balance change with the inner peace, a quality I hope transforms others' lives as it has my own.

Robert Brubaker - Sculptor

Artist's Biography

Robert Brubaker, living American Artist. Born 1952, Chicago, Illinois. Bachelor Of Fine Art degree, Illinois Wesleyan University, 1974. Graduate Studies in ceramic arts, Illinois State University, 1976. June 1976, On The Road… In 1977 I was fortunate to become a member of a fine cooperative sculpture studio in San Rafael California; working artists, the real deal, it all starts there. Kicked around Northern California for several years, showing in local galleries and juried shows. I landed in Davis Ca. and began showing with a gallery in Sacramento. That work would become my life, it was 1980. Anthropomorphism had taken over my sculpture by then and all human figures had animal heads, or animal skull heads. It was just how I saw things. My Bob Dog character came along in 1985, the result of a friend saying he was going to start calling me “Bob Dog”, from the movie “Rancho Deluxe”. The dog head has been my default personality ever since. Shows how far a suggestion from an old film can go. In the “early days”, I was very fortunate to be part of the “New Western Art” movement. Being represented by the two premier fine art galleries in Arizona at the time. First, starting in 1983 with the Elaine Horwitch Galleries and after Elaine’s passing in 1991, with the Susanne Brown Gallery. As an artist I have also been involved with some very fine public art programs. One of note is the Phoenix Airport Museum, Sky Harbor, my affiliation dates 1991 to present. In the past few years I have been conducting ceramic sculpture workshops at art centers through out the western United States. Open form teaching makes for wonderful artistic interaction. I have been a professional studio artist my entire adult life, always sculptural. Can’t even think flat. My wife Bonnie and I have lived in Cornville Arizona since 1987. We came to see the elephant...

Dolores Chiappone - Oil

Artist's Biography

Born in Rochester NY., 1931, Dolores has lived in a wide array of locales allowing for a rich backdrop of experience to filter into her art. From New York to Mexico she has professionally painted for over 50 years and her works are valued in collections around the globe. With Pre-Columbian art being her primary influence, Dolores Chiappone's work sings of a place where spirit converges with body - an inner world where tactile circumstance merges with subjective mythologies of the soul. In this middle ground her art somehow transcends representation and grows closer to life. In this way her work is pure Realism, and whether rapture or rancor her paintings reflect life in its purest, most cognitive form. Ms. Chiappone has settled in Arizona after living in Carmel for many years and is still painting the mindscapes of her imagination.

Judy Coffman - Ceramic

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

As an artist, I believe that original art should be affordable for all people. I love creating art that makes one smile; I especially enjoy sculpting animals in a whimsical way. I delight in the mystery and fun of a raku firing. I love color, spontaneity and happy accidents. I find clay therapeutic, but most of all I love the feel of clay! It touches my soul!

Artist's Biography

My interest in art started in early childhood. Born in Milwaukee, WI, I won an art drawing contest in first grade! I then took Saturday oil painting classes during the summer. My parents gave me encouragement when they framed the one and only completed oil painting from that summer. The oil painting still hangs in my home today. Throughout my adult life I raised three children, worked in the travel industry; then the California court system. I retired from California Superior Court as a Jury Supervisor in 2003. I took a variety of art courses and workshops throughout those years. Mostly painting classes in various mediums; water color, oil and acrylic. Then for a short time in the 1970’s, I had the chance to experiment with clay. However, during that same time my family had an opportunity to move to Northern California. Raising a family in a new area, exploring the beauty of San Francisco, and working at a new job didn’t leave much time to dabble in art. I still painted on occasion. In 1994, remembering my brief encounter with clay in the 70’s, I decided to sign up for a sculpture class at Solano County Community College, Fairfield, CA. It was called Sculpture & the Human Form. Marc Lancet, the head of the Art Department was my teacher at that time. A female bust was the start of an unending exploration into the world of clay. One hundred pounds of clay was pushed, manipulated, paddled and sculpted into a work of art. That was just the beginning of my exciting journey into the ceramic arts. As I wanted the full scope of the clay experience, I took wheel classes to learn how to throw a functional piece of pottery. However, my true love is hand building and sculpture. In 2003, my husband and I moved to Prescott, Arizona. A studio was built in my home. I have continued to take classes and workshops. With its varied and many facets, I am forever hooked on clay!

Melanie Corradi - Oil

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

The scent of linseed hangs sweet. The air is excited by too many lights focused in one spot. An endless arrangement of color swirls in front of my hand and quickens my heart. A glowing white rectangle of cloth in front of me is infinite possibility. The smell of a new taste. Enchantment of sound. The color of touch. Embarrassing encounters. Intuition. Consideration. Perspective in relation to situation. Investigation results in action. Paint chronicles thought. The basic motion of applying color to a surface is a stream that trickles down through my thoughts, experience, and excitement over every possible outcome. Art resides in the act of exploration. Every color poses a question. Every stroke answers with another. The honesty of art attracts me. No amount of technique can mask the reality of my own personal awkwardness. No amount of passion hides lack of contemplation, or vice versa. Even if I try to hide that which I consider to be my faults, that falsity hangs on the wall for all to see. Reality states that others will encounter each piece exactly as it is when I am done with it. All will inevitably be viewed through the eyes of time. The no longer pristine canvas is now a permanent record of not only everything I am investigating, but also everything I am ignoring. The thoughts of one woman for one moment. Melanie was born on March 27, 1975. With a father in the Air Force, she moved periodically during childhood, eventually starting college at the University of Evansville in Indiana. During her sophomore year, Melanie spent a semester studying painting at the Lorenzo, d’Medici Academy in Florence, Italy. After that she returned to the states and graduated in 1998 with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from Arizona State University. While still in school at ASU, Melanie found her way into the company of the House Studios, a notoriously unconventional art collective in downtown Phoenix. This also led to being represented in her first gallery, Art One Gallery in Scottsdale, AZ. As a means to explore the body as a form of expression, and also support her painting career, Melanie ventured on to apprentice and tattoo at Clan Tatu in Tempe, AZ. Wishing to be fully involved in the tattoo community, Melanie has attended and tattooed at many conventions including at the Women’s Tattoo Convention in Orlando, Florida, the infamous Inkslinger’s Ball in Hollywood, CA and the International Tribal Convention in Borneo, Malaysia. In 2003 Melanie started twentynine31, an experimental art space in Phoenix, AZ. Twentynine31 is Corradi’s resident gallery designed to support her concept of communication during the process of creation.

Megan Dean - Jeweler & Print Artist

Artist's Biography

Megan Dean is a native of Arizona and a resident of Prescott, AZ. Megan received her Bachelor's of Fine Art from the University of Arizona in 2003 and thereafter returned to Prescott. Megan is a printmaker as well as a beaded jewelry artist. In printmaking she works predominantly with the techniques of monoprint and relief. Megan continues to take classes and work in the Printmaking department at Yavapai College. Megan is an avid reader and is also interested in gardening, cooking and spending time with her friends and family. In her jewelry Megan uses lots of copper, reflecting on her Arizona upbringing as well as a nod to many of her family members that worked in the copper mines of Morenci, AZ. Megan uses semi-precious stones, glass, and natural elements such as bone, horn and freshwater pearls in her work as well as high quality metals like niobium for her ear wires. Niobium is perfect for anyone with sensitive ears. Adornment and the history of beads is of unending interest to Megan and everything she creates is one-of-a-kind. Megan's visual art can be seen at the Jerome Artists Cooperative Gallery in Jerome, AZ. Megan's goal is to be a working artist, a continually kinder and smarter person and to be "the change you wish to see in the world."

Johanna Dozer - Glass Art

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

I believe in the importance of nature and the self. The balance of life and nature, following nature is key in life. Nature holds an abundance of shapes, images and amazement’s. As a society, we need to learn from listening, watching, and following nature. Our planet is an incredible being with strength, beauty and healing that is constantly changing and growing, all key elements in life and art. We start with this belief of learning and following nature as our inspiration to create art for life.

Artist's Biography

Johanna Dozer was born in Phoenix, AZ. Growing up in a city enjoying the culture Phoenix had to offer while raining sheep in an orange orchard area of town. Upon finishing my Bachelor of Art degree at the University of Arizona I moved to Connecticut where I opened a photography studio. I received validation from the art community as my work was accepted and judged in gallery art showings, grants and positive press. After over ten years in Connecticut I felt a pull to return to Phoenix and the boldness of the desert. I returned to my childhood home in the city to be in “touch with the earth” by raising sheep and growing citrus. Upon returning I became captured by glass blowing. Glass is holds an embodiment of elements of complexity that has been in my life.

Phyllis Earls - Embellished Glass

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

An early memory, age five: Big, beautiful orange nasturtiums, painted as high as I could reach on our white front porch. Subsequent memory: A large bucket of soapy water and a scrub brush, erasing my very first masterpiece, all supervised by my mother, hands on hips. Time went on and the happiness and sense of freedom gained from that thing called art stayed and is with me still. At different stages of my life, I have focused my work in series - watercolors; acrylics; mixed media. Although I still work on various projects, the last several years I have become more and more enamored with the process of work on glass. The layering of paint, collage and metal leafing in a reverse fashion on clear glass objects, resulting in unique and beautiful art pieces, has become one of the most engaging endeavors in which I have expressed my creative self. My work is currently represented by Ian Russell Gallery in Prescott, AZ. I hope you will enjoy my glass art pieces as much as I enjoy the process of bringing them to life.

Kris Eberhard - Illuminated Leather Jewelry

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

My formal training (Bachelor of Fine Arts)emphasized the classic studio disciplines of drawin and painting. Over many years, I also worked in traditional media - watercolor, oil, pastel - executing the standard human figure studies and portraiture, simultaneously experimenting with a variety of craft media such as wood, fiber, cold glass and leather, among others. In the late 19 eighty's, I became excited about an innovative new acrylic painting material called interference colors, which actually have no true colors (pigment) of their own, but which refract light ( like the scales on butterfly wings), producing on optical color sensation that appear and disappear by turn. magic! Corralling magic, I learned, it takes tenacity. Experiments on traditional flat canvas yieldng unexciting results. I found it required to curved, dimensional surface to exploit the shining, shifting quality of the paint. at some point, I brush a stroke piece of scrap of leather from some past projects. The fine grain of the leather combined with the brilliance of the paint, produced a rich, scintillating surface. It was perfect! Touching the thin lining leather reminded me of the feeling of fresh leaves. To me, leaves are one of the more under-appreciated beauties of the natural world. So that's where I begin. with simple "illuminated leather" leaves mounted as earrings, and they were great hit. New acquaintances were generous about teaching me the engineering aspects of the jewelry field - attaching findings and making parts hand correctly. While I use fantasy colors on small pieces, I use natural history resources to research the larger, species - accurate pieces. I use best quality artists acrylic media and domestic animal leather products ( mostly from sheep, but occasionally from pigs or cattle). Earrings findings are all surgical steel base, which is hypo-allergenic for most people. My butterflies, tropical fish and leaves have "migrated" to the U.S., and many have been carried as far as Europe, Asia and South America. I'm happy that I've developed the means to give permanent form to nature's evanescence, beautiful creatures.

Bill Fields - Wood Carvings

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Bill Fields lives south of Prescott, Arizona, in a historic cabin at the base of Maverick Mountain. Near the headwaters of the Hassayampa River, Bill and his wife, Laura, have been living "off-the-grid" for forty years on the Oro Flame Mining Claim. "The inspiration for my art comes from my deep love of this land and a respect for the natural world. The logs are carved from locally harvested wood. Many of the subjects I use are a reflection of the local environment including rattlesnakes, hawks, eagles, and owls. The electric tools I use for carving are powered by the sun, hence the name, 'Solar Spirit Poles.' My corn maidens have been popular and are a symbol of fertility, finished with native pigments from the Hopi Reservation. All my poles are sealed and protected for outdoor display."

Fitch Pottery - Pottery

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

A native of Arizona, Rick Fitch received his Bachelor of Arts in Art Education from the College of Education at Arizona State University. He has continued to take graduate classes toward a Masters degree in Fine Arts at ASU, and has participated in workshops from several potters who are nationally recognized. Following graduation, Rick was an instructor of ceramics and jewelry at the high school level for several years. Rick and his family still reside in Arizona where he is now fully committed to his career as a studio potter. Rick's pottery captures the style, beauty and colors of the southwest. He is intrigued with shaping, designing and decorating the functional pottery he produces. The ceramic artwork Rick produces is both wheel-thrown and hand built, ranging from intimate dinnerware sets and serving pieces to commissioned decorative creations. He pays -particular attention to the form and function of his ceramic artwork so as to present his clients with a product that is aesthetically pleasing. Rick travels the southwestern states participating in juried art exhibitions. His work has won numerous awards and is included in many galleries and gift shops throughout the United States and some foreign countries.

Kim Fox - Jewelry Design

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

At the age of 50, Kim Fox decided to make a major change in her life. After spending over 20 years in technology she decided to return to her first love, the arts. It started with a harmless strand of beads and grew. By the time she was 55 she decided to take an inheritance from her mother and her retirement and redefine the second half of her life by going back to school. Kim Fox's education includes Design and Graduate Gemologist diplomas at Gemological Institute of America as well as training in traditional jewelry manufacturing methods at Revere Academy in San Francisco. Her jewelry has won two international design competitions and articles about her and her work have appeared in Ornament Magazine, Bead and Button, Beads 2009 and 2010, MJSA Journal as well as other magazines. Kim is a member of the GIA Alumni Association, AGTA (American Gem Trade Association and MJSA (Manufacturing Jewelry Suppliers Association). All of the work she does is manufactured in the USA.

Don Francis - Wood Craft

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

I make stuff. It seems lately I have been making a lot of boxes and pendants. Pendants are straightforward items that need only to be beautiful, pretty, or interesting. Boxes, though, are different. Boxes also need to be beautiful, pretty, or interesting; they also provide a function and, sometimes, a utility. I use boxes to keep things in. I use boxes to keep things out. Sometimes I make a box just to have an easy way to display an equisite piece of wood. Not working from diagrams, plans or patterns, the outcome of my work is always a surprise. I have been making stuff for about as long as I can remember. I grew up in Prescott, got married in the Court House in Prescott, and we moved to Phoenix to make a living. After retiring we ended up back in Prescott. I sign most of my stuff with F22. "F" is for my initial and 22 is an anniversary date

C S Fritz - Mixed Media

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

“Fanciful, humorous, grotesque…”, “fresh, new, exciting, one to watch…” are a few of the words used to express the works brought forth by artist Casey Fritz, or better known as C.S. Fritz. Currently living in Prescott Valley with his wife and two kids, Casey originally yields from San Clemente, CA. He grew up being cultured in “classic” horror films and attributes this to the way he does art today. He started drawing as soon as he could hold a pencil, but never went farther than doodles until 2008 after reading Watchmen, sparking a new desire to reignite his passion for art. After one online art class, he said enough. He decided that he wanted to do it his own way, and began to pull ideas out of his own mind. Thus began the first series “Robots Encountering Earth” depicting what would happen if huge, yet gentle robots came to earth to explore. Equipped with spray paint, black ink, and canvas, the ideas came to life, and Casey got his first art show at the Raven in May of 2008 with a sold out show. The first ever in Raven’s history! After the huge success with his first show, Casey got the attention of a few independent newspapers in town namely Pop Rocket, and The Noise based in Flagstaff which led him to his second showing in Flagstaff at Mountain Oasis, another sale out. His pieces seemed to be attracting a lot of attention, but it wasn't’t just the eccentric art that was drawing people in. “I hate seeing an awesome piece of art, wanting it, reading the price tag and then vomiting at the cost of it. Art shouldn't’t be that way!” Fritz exclaims in an interview with The Noise. Keeping the cost of his art down keeps it affordable for the masses, and that is a principle he bases his artist career on. Besides canvas work, Casey also has does a monthly comic strip in Pop Rocket called Pocket Full of Bees telling real life stories of what it was like growing up with his mom, brother, and sister. Now he has started his new creation in the Noise: Hell’s Interview. His artist career is moving quickly, and he is so excited to be partnered up with the Ian Russell Gallery and is ecstatic for what the future holds for him. C.S Fritz has been nominated as visual artist of the year in Prescott Arizona for 2011 Casey lives in Prescott Valley with his wife and two kids and works full time at Calvary Chapel of Prescott.

Tanya Garvis - Glass Fused On Copper

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Tanya has always appreciated fine art. After years in the restaurant business and in marketing, she became worn out at the very prospect of continuing in those fields. One day, she happened upon some art at a gallery, and was smitten by it. She left her name and number with the owner, hoping to apprentice with the artist. She knew the likelihood of this was slim. Almost two YEARS LATER, she got the call. After apprenticing with Dennis Berry and learning the fine process of enameling, she became convinced that she had finally found her calling. She also learned that glass and copper fused together create extraordinary visual effects. No two designs are the same. She has a studio in Deephaven, Minnesota. In addition to creating art, she loves traveling, reading, gardening and ‘hanging out’ with her family. She is married to a really cool guy, and has 2 amazing children (seriously). Her husband spends countless hours helping her build frames and glue pieces together. Tanya was born and raised in the Twin City area. She also spent several of her formative years living in Germany. She attended the University of Minnesota and graduated with degrees in Marketing and Psychology

Rick Geib - Bronze

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Rick Geib, bronze artist, started working in ceramics in 1995. In 2000 he became employed at a bronze foundry learning all aspects of the lost wax process. "Surrounded by art and artists at the foundry, I began to learn about composition and refinement as well as all aspects of the lost wax casting process (ceramic shell and vacuum investment). I tr to put myself in technical and artistic situations which are beyond my ability, I find immersion education invaluable. All stages of my sculpts, start to finish, including all post sculpt production are performed by myself. I make my own clay, tools and methods of armature which fit my style. I am almost completely self-taught, both artistically and technically. The friendship with fantasy artist Gary Persello has been the closest thing to formal instruction I have had. I did not even take art classes in high school, so I feel the work is really coming from an honest place, intuitive and free of academic authority. With the medium of bronze there is a large skill set to acquire (if you do all the work yourself) and it takes a very long time to master all the steps. I see every stage of creating as an adventure. It is as much a joy to create and experience the process as it is to create the sculpture itself. To me, creating is about personal growth, the challenge of being honest with myself. My intention is to create sculpture that draws the view in and elicits feelings of harmony, peace and wonder, to create strong spatial presence with minimal material." Rick currently lives in Prescott, Arizona. There he works freelance at his home studio performing various aspects of post sculpting production for local artists and foundries and tries to maintain a sense of humor.

Raina Gentry - Acrylic Mixed Media

Artist's Biography

Raina was born and raised in Southern California. As a young adult, she moved to Arizona to attend Prescott College where she earned a BA degree in Environmental Philosophy. In 2000 she went back to school to earn a degree in art from the UA, in Tucson. Raina’s artwork incorporates her studies in printmaking, life drawing, collage, and painting, and is heavily influenced by her education at Prescott College. She views each canvas as a playground for her psyche. Each piece evolving naturally and intuitively, with little structure or expectation about the final outcome. Through this organic approach to art making, Raina believes that she taps into, and expresses universal themes that many people can identify with. Through complex layering of various media, with a focus on the human form, and nature, she creates meaningful, evocative works that draw her viewers in.

Trace Glau - Found Object Art

Artist's Biography

Trace Glau was born and raised in Prescott, and continues to make Northern Arizona her home, currently living in Flagstaff. Trace’s educational background is in the areas of Printmaking, Metalsmithing, Education and Psychology. Drawing on inspiration from organic forms found in nature as well as the human body, Trace integrates these natural shapes into her paintings and sculptures. She has been working with recycled materials and found objects to create one of a kind recycled art creations, including nests. The concept of space and place is something that Trace enjoys depicting in her work and feels that concept is something everyone can relate to. Utilizing her formal training from her BFA and MED, Trace enjoys teaching art at Coconino Community College where her students experience her true passion for the subject. Her art influences comes from her Grandmother, Frances Fields, as well as both of her parents, Greg and Courtney, who create art using writing, photography and needlework. In 2012, Trace and Greg will host their 3rd Annual Father/Daughter Art Show together.

Sarah Harms - Jewelry

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Originally from Chicago area, I am a mother, artist, and wife, readjusting to life after relocating across the country to Arizona. I am making jewelry, blacksmithing, and exploring the wonderful state of Arizona with my family. Life is good! Many of my designs incorporate ancient symbolism including goddesses, spirals, suns, and moons. I believe that symbols can be inspiring and empowering for people, whatever the meaning is for them. Symbols can also have powerful energy, so I only use what I believe to be positive images. My intent as a jeweler is to create a well-crafted, cool looking, affordable piece of wearable art with positive energy for the wearer.

Tim Hull - Clay Artist

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

The beauty of porcelain and stoneware clay, along with alternative firing and finishing proccesses, has kept Tim Hull working as a clay artist since 1992. By utilizing a variety of surface design techniques, Tim’s claywork takes on a sculptural appeal. Current bodies of work include, Salt-Flash Wall Art and Porcelain Shadow Box Designs.

Judith Mitchell - Jewelry

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Judith Mitchell is a multi-media artist. She taught painting for 25 + years, before becoming an interior designer. She is fascinated by form and color. Beadwork is her way of expressing her ongoing passionate with design. She has been married to well known jewelry designer for 48 years. she is a mother of 3 and a grandmother of 8. Her motto in life is, "To create, is to live." Beadwork is a relaxing and fulfilling hobby, when work is busy and intense. Her logo is "Winddancers". Winddancers is the essence of many cultures. To dance upon the wind, is to explore the freedom of beauty and design, and feel the essence of times gone by a and times yet to be. I have gathered up beautiful thing, and have them into the force of the wind, where they will dance together and become wonderful things. Enjoy!

Patti Ortiz - Acrylic

Artist's Biography

Patti Ortiz graduated cum laude with a BFA from the University of North Texas 1980. Her studies revolved around literature, art history, art education and a wide variety of studio work that includes, advertising art, ceramics, drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture. Following twelve years of working in the retail book industry, she took some time to travel and eventually found work in Grand Canyon National Park. It was while working at Phantom Ranch that her desire to produce art emerged once again. She has been working as a professional artist within the Northern Arizona art scene since 1995. Patti is also one of the founders of Prescott's Art!

Michael Peloquin - Sculpture

Artist's Biography

Mike was raised in Minnesota, studied architecture, and worked as an architectural designer and draftsman for a national home building company in Minnesota and Seattle, and for architects, in Minneapolis and Prescott, Arizona. For several years in the past he has also worked as an Account Executive for several national corporations promoting and selling building materials. He's worked as an Instructor, teaching Architectural Drafting and Design in Vocational School in Minnesota and Yavapai College in Prescott, AZ. Mike was self employed for 30 years, at one time employing 150 people, and is now retired. Mike opened his architectural office in 1980 in Minnesota but for health reasons he and his wife Darla moved, and opened his architectural office in Prescott, Arizona in 1987. In 1988 he won a contest designing a logo for the Prescott Chamber of Commerce and since then has designed 200 homes in the Prescott area. One of his homes was featured in Prescott Woman Magazine in 2005, and a picture of another home he designed was in Money Magazine in 2006. A hobby Mike developed over the years comes from motorcycle riding and picking up junk while hiking and walking. After seeing what other bike sculptures have done, welding junk motorcycle or car parts together to make a bike sculpture, he decided to design and developed his own type of motorcycle sculpture out of other kinds of junk people threw away. He discovered, by combining junk which looks like miniature motorcycle parts, customizing them and putting them together with all kinds of other pieces of junk, he was able to come up with “ReCycle” a motorcycle sculpture made from recycled junk.

Dania Piotti - Acrylic

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Reflecting back as cliché as it may sound, it appears that I have been painting since birth. Whenever the desire strikes, the outlet of being able to express myself through art is an intrinsic release of the unexpected. Evolving as an artist is a constant endeavor. Through the years I have seen my work transpire into a true meaning of myself, developing an understanding of my own internal banter. The expressions along with the depth of one’s eyes I paint are a constant thread in my work. Though I tend to focus on the vulnerability of women, I develop their strengths as I see a mirror of myself in most of what I paint. Evoking different emotions from an array of viewers is all in retrospect – as what is being painted speaks to the inner chaos of my own emotions which find their way on the canvas. Over time I have explored several art mediums, however more often than not, I circle back to acrylic paint, for both its vibrancy and great depth of colours. My influences are foremost represented through my Aunt, who communicated best through her eyes. The eyes are truly a gateway to your soul. Following suit, everything I see and feel are communicated equally as such. The art of painting is very therapeutic and in no way could I imagine my journey as an artist ever coming to an end. Rather continuously evolving through the passage of time.

Robert Raes - Woodworker

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

A woodworker most of my adult life, I learned wood turning and carving from a local master. Wood Art has now become my passion; I hope you enjoy viewing it as much as I did creating it. I lean to Asian themes: Asian birdhouses, lanterns, vessels and next up Teapots. My art is more of a vignette than a single object. 'The beauty of things imperfect and simple' sums up how I approach my work. My work is a slice of time at a pleasant moment, captured in wood.

John Ryszka II - Glass Art

Gail Schimberg - Iconographer

Mary Schulte - Mosaic Artist

Artist's Biography

Mary Schulte was born in Southern California and grew up in Arizona. She attended Northern Arizona University, Arizona State University and University of California, Los Angeles. For many years she works for an airline, traveling throughout the world, while continuing art studies in various media. For the past 12 years, she has concentrated on mosaic, sculpture and jewelry. She has exhibited and won awards in numerous juried show and galleries in California and Arizona. Mary moved to Prescott in December 2005, and has since completed the mosaic components of 3 public art projects, and won awards Yavapai College and Prescott Center for the Arts. She currently work in teaches classes at her studio in Prescott. Commissioned artwork is welcome.

Diana Simpson - Bronze

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Although doing art has always been an important part of her life growing up in Arizona, it was only a decade ago that she began her first clay figure and got “hooked.” Years of experience working in a foundry nurtured her innate talents. Diana’s work is currently shown in several fine art galleries in the Southwest. Of her preference for sculpture, Diana says “It’s a medium that allows a great deal of freedom of expression. It’s art one can touch, and bronze carries with it a sense of permanence.”

John Skurja - Bronze

Artist's Biography

John Skurja was born in Prescott, Arizona. He loved and excelled in art throughout his early school years. He received his Bachelors Degree in Art Education from Arizona State University in 1972 and he obtained his Masters Degree in Art Education in 1978 from Northern Arizona University. John has produced numerous drawings, paintings, etchings, serigraphs, jewelry and sculpture. His passion for sculpture was sparked when he started working for a fine art bronze foundry, Noggle Bronze Works, in Prescott during 1972. After teaching Art at the Prescott Public Schools for six years he purchased and co-owned a foundry for five years. In 1986, he started his own foundry, Skurja Art Castings. Today, with over thirty-seven years of foundry experience, his foundry business produces exquisite bronzes for well-established sculptors throughout Arizona and the United States. John juggles between running a successful business and seriously pursing his artistic career in sculpting. He continues his passion for art by vigorously studying, observing and learning where ever possible. “For me, creating sculpture is personal. It is a time for my heart and soul to come forth, to guide my hands through the creative processes, manipulating and interpret ting thought and materials into design and form. My intent is to evoke a response from the viewer. In the case of my frog sculptures, hopefully that response is one of pleasure and joy! I feel so very fortunate to love my work and to work at what I love. John is currently and exclusively showing his bronzes at the Ian Russell Fine Art Gallery. “Skurja frog sculptures” can be found in a growing number of private collections worldwide. Outdoor public placements of John’s work include: Cypress Gardens, Florida; Yavapai Community College Sculpture Garden, Prescott, Arizona; Na Aina Kai Botanical Gardens, Kilauea, Kuai, Hawaii; Detroit Zoo, Michigan; Desert Samaritan Hospital Children’s Garden, Phoenix, Arizona; Public Garden, Texas.

Spoonfed - Woodwork

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Handcrafted Hardwood Utensils made in Arizona.

Bryan Tubbs - Sculptor

Fred Wilson 3 - Miniture Oil

Artist's Biography

For years my art was a learning process and hobby. Marketing, Managerment, and Design was my chosen profession. In the late 70's after moving my family to Arizona, my creative side took over and with the tutoring of many Artists, painting became my passion. After moving to the Prescott Area, I became involved in managing and owning my own gallery. Health issues forced me to retire from my professional life and now I am living my life long dream creationg paintings of the Rim Country in Northern Arizona and landscapes of Europe, in my studio. My interest in miniture and ACEO paintings seems to be my venue, the challenge to see how much depth and detail I can achieve in each painting is now my daily task.

E.C. Wynne - Bronze

Artist's Biography

Currently residing in the beautiful red rock country of Arizona, E.C. Wynne has diverged from a successful career in the commercial art field, where she won international recognition, into fine arts. The wide acceptance of her work and several national awards was the stimulus in this change of artistic direction. One of Ms. Wynne's dreams continues to be realized specializing in fine arts, where her sensitive and loving attention to detail of subject is apparent in her much loved paintings and sculptures.

Bill Cramer - Oil

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Bill Cramer grew up in Riverside, CA exploring the deserts and hills near his home. Family summer camping trips and learning the sport of rock climbing further cemented his love of the outdoors. Despite his attempt to become a professional fulltime college student, Bill finally graduated from Cal State University Long Beach with an BFA degree in drawing and painting plus a minor in outdoor studies. He went almost nowhere with that until a move to central Arizona opened his eyes to the possibilities of landscape painting. Today he divides his time between his family, his art and his outdoor pursuits. The landscape paintings I create are an expression of my lifelong enjoyment of nature. When I'm not painting I'm usually out rock climbing or hiking. These trips often result in new ideas and refrences for future works. I enjoy plein air painting, but believe that time in the studio is equally important. This is in addition to my favorite job as a "stay-at-home" dad.

Bill Cramer - Oil

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Bill Cramer grew up in Riverside, CA exploring the deserts and hills near his home. Family summer camping trips and learning the sport of rock climbing further cemented his love of the outdoors. Despite his attempt to become a professional fulltime college student, Bill finally graduated from Cal State University Long Beach with an BFA degree in drawing and painting plus a minor in outdoor studies. He went almost nowhere with that until a move to central Arizona opened his eyes to the possibilities of landscape painting. Today he divides his time between his family, his art and his outdoor pursuits. The landscape paintings I create are an expression of my lifelong enjoyment of nature. When I'm not painting I'm usually out rock climbing or hiking. These trips often result in new ideas and refrences for future works. I enjoy plein air painting, but believe that time in the studio is equally important. This is in addition to my favorite job as a "stay-at-home" dad.

Bill Cramer - Oil

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Bill Cramer grew up in Riverside, CA exploring the deserts and hills near his home. Family summer camping trips and learning the sport of rock climbing further cemented his love of the outdoors. Despite his attempt to become a professional fulltime college student, Bill finally graduated from Cal State University Long Beach with an BFA degree in drawing and painting plus a minor in outdoor studies. He went almost nowhere with that until a move to central Arizona opened his eyes to the possibilities of landscape painting. Today he divides his time between his family, his art and his outdoor pursuits. The landscape paintings I create are an expression of my lifelong enjoyment of nature. When I'm not painting I'm usually out rock climbing or hiking. These trips often result in new ideas and refrences for future works. I enjoy plein air painting, but believe that time in the studio is equally important. This is in addition to my favorite job as a "stay-at-home" dad.

Gary Persello - Bronze

Artist's Biography

Eager to draw from life and his vivid imagination, Gary has been rendering and modeling on the drawing pad and in sculpture since early childhood. By age twelve, he was designing silk screen logos for local businesses and his own comic characters were printed on a line of T-shirts by the age of sixteen. With several oil paintings already commissioned to him, Gary graduated with an Associate degree in Commercial Art at seventeen. His formal fine arts education continued at Kent State University in Ohio. He later graduated with honors from the Pittsburgh Art Institute, majoring in Visual Communications with strong emphasis on Sculptural Special Effects. Gary spent a total of fifteen years working at a local bronze foundry which helped him evolve into the competent and creative Bronze Sculptor that he is today. It allowed him to master all aspects of the casting process including mold-making, pulling and working waxes, welding and assembly, rough and finish chasing, and his specialty, multi-color patinas. To this day, Gary still executes all of these steps himself on every bronze he produces, an uncommon practice among bronze artists of today. His work thus represents a caliber of excellence in artistry and craftsmanship rarely found in contemporary bronze sculpture. In recent years, Gary has been recognized for his efforts with several honorable awards including Best of Show Peer Choice at the Sedona National Sculpture Walk, First and Best of Show in the Science Fiction Westercon in Phoenix, Arizona, and First for Best 3-Dimensional work at the World Fantasy Art Show in Atlanta, Georgia. This experience led to a 1993 "Chesley Award" from the American Science Fiction Artists Association for Best 3-D. His work has also been featured in several books, including Spectrum 1, The Frank Collection, and The Chesley Awards Retrospective.

Paul Abbott - Oil

Artist's Biography

Born in London, 1960, Paul Abbott has been painting since he was a child. Turning his bedroom into an art studio at the age of 14, he continued to paint all through the 80's and 90's and in 1992, moved to Paris where he lived and worked in an abandoned factory in the artist quarter of the city and his work received international recognition. Returning to the UK in 1995, he continued to paint and exhibit his work in both London and Paris including verious portrait competitions such as the Mall Galleries and the National Portrait Gallery London. In 2001, he moved to the US and began exhibiting in LA, Atlanta and throughout the Southwest. He was asked to travel wth Prince Charles on a tour o the Middle East in 2003 as the accompanying artist and was the recent winner of the 2012 Bucky Award for Outstanding Visual Artist. Paul has taught painting in the US and in Europe for over 20 years and currently lives, paints, and teaches in Prescott, AZ.

Lenny J. Axford - Clay sculpture & water color

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Lenny presents a series of Sculptures, Prints and Cards which bring to life the rugged personalities that characterize the Old West, in a whimsical style and a shot of humor.

Artist's Biography

Born with a western wind in his soul, Lenny has held a passion for art and music since early childhood. He grazed on a steady diet of TV and movie westerns with a healthy dose of Mad Magazine for dessert.

Corey Collins - Metal Sculpture

Jane Cheek - Beaded Miniature Sculpture

Rudy Erdmamn - Wood Carved Sculpture

Brandon Eubanks - Metal Sculpture

Corey Collins - Metal Sculpture

Artist's Biography

Junk metal has always been a part of Corey’s life, from rambling around scrap yards with his grandfather as a child to the whimsical creatures he creates today. Over time, Corey has developed a true love for making original art from recycled and found metal. If it can be welded, it can be made into a unique piece of art! For Corey, the sky is the limit. Each piece of Corey’s artwork is a hand-crafted, one of a kind creation. Ideas for his work come straight from his imagination with no written plan in mind. The results range from silly to serious. “I get an idea in my head, and I start to work with it,” he says. “I like it when the pieces just flow together and give soul to my work.” Corey’s art has been on display at galleries and shows in Colorado, including the “Doors to the Past” Art Exhibit in Cripple Creek, the Pink Sink in Florence and John Ault’s Gallery in Salida. His work has traveled as far as New York and Canada. Of his largest piece, “Eos: Greek Goddess of the Dawn”, NDI Art Gallery in Bournemouth, England commented that “This work of art is sheer genius.”

Corey Collins.. - Metal Sculpture

Artist's Biography

Junk metal has always been a part of Corey’s life, from rambling around scrap yards with his grandfather as a child to the whimsical creatures he creates today. Over time, Corey has developed a true love for making original art from recycled and found metal. If it can be welded, it can be made into a unique piece of art! For Corey, the sky is the limit. Each piece of Corey’s artwork is a hand-crafted, one of a kind creation. Ideas for his work come straight from his imagination with no written plan in mind. The results range from silly to serious. “I get an idea in my head, and I start to work with it,” he says. “I like it when the pieces just flow together and give soul to my work.” Corey’s art has been on display at galleries and shows in Colorado, including the “Doors to the Past” Art Exhibit in Cripple Creek, the Pink Sink in Florence and John Ault’s Gallery in Salida. His work has traveled as far as New York and Canada. Of his largest piece, “Eos: Greek Goddess of the Dawn”, NDI Art Gallery in Bournemouth, England commented that “This work of art is sheer genius.”

Corey Collins... - Metal Sculpture

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Each piece of Corey's artwork is a hand-crafted, one of a kind, creation. Ideas for his work come straight from his imagination with no written plan in mind. The results range from silly to serious. "I get an idea in my head and I start to work with it," he says. "I like it when the pieces just flow together and give soul to my work."

Artist's Biography

Junk metal has always been a part of Corey's life-- from rambling around scrap yards with his grandfather as a child to the whimsical creatures he creates today. Over time, Corey has developed a true love for making original art from recycled and found metal. If it can be welded, it can be made into a unique piece of art! For Corey, the sky is the limit. Corey's art has been on display at galleries and shows in Colorado, including the "Doors to the Past" Art Exhibit in Cripple Creek, the Pink Sink in Florence and John Ault's Gallery in Salida. His work has traveled as far as New York and Canada. Of his largest piece, "Eos: Greek Goddess of the Dawn", NDI Art Gallery in Bournemouth, England commented that "This work of art is sheer genius."

Ian Russell - Water Color Art

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

I love the beauty of the Southwest and the breathtaking intensity of the landscape. As difficult as it is to explore these places by foot it is even more challenging and rewarding to bring what I experience to life through the images that I paint. I have painted places and people that have touched my life since I was a teenager. I strive to capture the element of a place, or a human life, that makes the ordinary exceptional. To show true beauty I often find it best to depict things as they really are, not as we imagine them to be.

I love to paint and communicate my passions through my work. To gain national and worldwide recognition as a painter is a goal I work on daily. I have always used my art as a way to support myself financially as well as find peace with my world. I believe that my paintings showcase the wondrous beauty of Arizona and the spectacular sights that await the adventurous spirit.

Artist's Biography

Born and raised in the San Francisco region of California, Ian was inspired as a child by the Old Masters works that filled many museums and galleries in the area. Ian's appreciation for the fantasy art of Frank Frazetta and modern master Norman Rockwell infused him with his passion to learn to paint. With oil paints out of his price range, watercolors were the natural choice for Ian to develop his talents. In 1985 Ian was transplanted to Prescott Arizona to finish his high school career. During this transition, art became the major focus in his life. By graduation in 1988, Ian was enjoying success as an artist by showing in galleries in Prescott and statewide.

The early 90's found Ian developing his skills not just as a painter but also as a master bronze foundry man. Over time it became apparent that Ian's true passion was not only to create art, but to help market and sell his works and the creations of others. In 1995 he opened A'Loft Gallery of Fine Art in Prescott. He enjoyed running his successful gallery for seven years until he decided to concentrate on his own art. For several years he built a collection of new pieces and in 2007 he opened the Ian Russell Gallery of Fine Art to showcase his latest works along side his vast catalogue of past creations.

Achievements:

• 1986-1989 - 1st Place Prescott Fine Arts Scholastic Scholarship competition.
• 1991- 1st Place & Best of Show. Elizabeth Prince Gallery. National Juried Competition.
• 1996 - One Man Solo Exhibition. Eclectic Junction for Art. Chicago, IL.
• 2001 - Peoples Choice Award. Phippen Western Museum, Memorial Show.
• 2002 - One Man Solo Exhibition. Talaqupaque, Sedona, AZ.
• 2004, 2005 & 2007 - One Man Solo Exhibition. Wil McNabb Jewelry Studio and Gallery. Flagstaff, AZ.

Education:

• 1985-1988 Prescott High School. Prescott, AZ.
• 1988-1989: Yavapai Community College. Prescott, AZ.
• 1989: San Francisco Art Institute. San Francisco, CA.

Rich Charpentier - Photography

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Interested in sharing my new found home with family and friends, I began the task of learning new photographic techniques to truly relay the vivid colors and textures of the Southwest. I've spent countless hours studying digital photography techniques trying to find the right blend of tools that allow me to capture and share photos that are beyond unique. I discovered Prescott March 13th, 2007. Since pulling into town I've hiked, cycled and climbed all over the Prescott, and expanded my explorations whenever time permits. During all my activities my camera comes along, and I keep working on sharing the majesty of Northern Arizona.

Artist's Biography

Raised outside of Worcester, MA., Rich grew up enjoying hikes along old fire trails, spending time exploring stone foundations of colonial homes, and swimming away his summers on Manchaug Pond. While not a photo buff during his youth, he did enjoy everything about the outdoors, which continues to this day.

Transplanted to Florida in 1984 Rich took up new outdoor activities. Surfing, windsurfing, and skateboarding took the place of long hikes. After relocating to Orlando for college the next adventures took place on bicycle. That's when he began dreaming of long distance cycling, long distance hiking, and other adventures.

After relocating to New Hampshire for Graduate School in Economics Rich discovered a new passion. Digital Technology. For nearly a decade he worked in the Wireless Engineering field for such companies as Sprint PCS, AT&T Wireless, and US Cellular. Interestingly enough, he carried his tech passion along with his passion for the outdoors and found ways to combine them. In 2001 he hiked the Appalachian Trail, and fellow hikers gave him the Trail Name of Gadget due to the technology carried in his pack. A Canon Digital Elph documented the hike along the trail, and was his first real exposure to Digital Photography.

After a severe illness in 2005 Rich hit the road with a 25 foot Airstream. The goals were simple. Heal, see the country, and find a new place to call home. Along his travels he continued combining his love for travel and digital tech, authoring the book "The Digital RV" and writing mobile tech columns for travel magazines. During this time he also expanded on his knowledge of digital photography.

In 2007 Rich discovered Prescott and decided to remain as a resident of the town. Here he continues to work on perfecting photographic techniques in order to relay the true scope of the Western sights he sees for family and friends back on the East Coast. The number of subjects to shoot is almost overwhelming, and he doesn't see an end to photographic opportunities for quite some time.......

Geoffry Brown - Custom Jeweler

Artist's Biography

Born to a family of wit and artistry, Geoffrey Brown found early expression for his talents as a commercial artist in San Francisco. In 1970 he began turning his designs into brass and silver jewelry, selling as a street artist at festivals and to upscale stores, including Saks Fifth Avenue. He loved to explore San Francisco to sketch the beautiful wrought iron and stained glass artwork of the city's ornate homes. Most of these designs were classic Victorian and Nuevo period creations, and you can still see their influence in the flowing lines and asymmetric balance of Geoffrey's current offerings. Geoffrey Brown is now a prominent jewelry designer and manufacturer in Northern Arizona. He has done work for the Phippen Museum, Arizona Highways and movie stars. He has even had his ensembles worn to White House events. Geoffrey has been a goldsmith and owned jewelry stores in the Prescott area since 1978, and currently designs for the Ian Russell Gallery, and a few stores in the Western United States.

Don Rantz - Pastel Artist

Artist's Biography

Don Rantz has devoted his career to capturing the subtleties of light found in the skies and land of the West. He was raised in Williams, Arizona, and spent his boyhood exploring the forests and mountains behind his home. From an early age, he grew to appreciate the land, water and sky of his native Arizona.

He studied oil painting and figure drawing at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff in the Eighties, preferring realism at a time when the prevailing winds blew in the direction of anything but representational accuracy. After college, he worked a great number of different jobs, traveling and living throughout the West, studying its many faces and adding to his vocabulary of shape and light.

In 1994, he married the artist, Beth Neely, and together they returned to Prescott, Arizona, her home town. They started a design firm and in 1998 they illustrated together two award winning children's books, Don't Call me Pig-A Javelina's Story, and Lizards for Lunch-A Roadrunner's Tale.

He first started working with pastels in 2003, and quickly developed the ability to capture light in the style he had always dreamed of, a style he could never quite capture in oil. He found that pastels' extensive range of dark and light colors enabled him to convey the realistic feeling of the land in an exciting new way.

In 2006, he won the Ruth Richeson Award for Excellence in the Pastel Journal 100 competition, sponsored by Pastel Journal magazine, for his piece Desert Vista. The following year he received Honorable Mention in the same competition for his painting Desert Backlight, which was featured on the cover of the Pastel Journal Magazine. Desert Backlight also won second place overall in the 2007 New Mexico Pastel Society National Show.

Marcia Molnar - Painter

Artist's Statement & Philosophy

Marcia Molnar lives in Prescott, Arizona, a beautiful place where the surroundings, sky and people are responsible for her paintings and the stories they begin. Her life "is a simple but grand adventure spent with George, my husband, who is also an artist, and Rocky our dog." Although Marcia has no formal art training, her dad was an artist and a gallery owner who gave her plenty of instruction when she was young. Molnar's paintings have changed with events in her life; she excelled as a portrait artist but when her children Ben and Shasta left home she said she began painting "whatever happened to be in my path." Molnar believes that the best times in her life have been waiting for the unexpected. She does not define the "unexpected" but states, 'It hits like a meteor, it happens with a change of light or an interesting shape. Sometimes the sunset is so intense in Arizona I swear the color blue has a sound." Although she paints for herself, others share her experiences. "If anyone has lingered for a sunset on Vulture Mine Road just past Wickenburg in the long shadows of the saguaros, they will recognize me as a kindred spirit," says Molnar. The fifty seven year old artist in predicting her future believes, "As long as I have life I will tell my stories with a paint brush and I will be the luckiest of the lucky."