The 10 week Arizona Fine Art Expo officially opened one week ago. Because of our busy schedules of trying to get the finishing touches of the tent set up as well as creating and hanging our own studio space within the Expo Christine and I are now just catching up on our blog.

The final days of set-up included the preparation of the artist’s display walls. This included protecting the carpet, spackling, and painting. We were lucky to have our experienced wall painters Kevin and Michelle Russell come in to work for a couple days in order to complete the task properly and with very little mess (except on them).

With only a couple of days till all the artists come in, the little details proved to be time consuming. Spot painting, sign hanging and parking stakes were added. The carpet was cleaned, the cafe was set up and the grounds were cleaned up as well. Sponsor Pathways Nursery completed the outdoor garden area by adding additional plants, a water fountain, bridges, and larger Koi fish to our beautiful pond.

On January 11, 12, & 13th, the artists began to arrive to begin setting up their individual galleries. With three days to complete the task, the atmosphere and comradery was one of optimism and excitement. Old friends reconnected and new friendships began to develop. Thunderbird Artists CEO Judi Combs did a wonderful job arranging the flowers throughout the Expo while artists busily prepared their studios. Approximately 100 artists will spend the next three months together creating and selling their artwork.

Opening day of the Arizona Fine Art Expo was on January 14th. With 9 weeks to go, make sure you stop by to see some of the best artists around. The Expo is open every day from 10am to 6pm just 5 miles north of the 101 along Scottsdale Rd at the intersection of JoMax. Hope to see you there.

Wrap-up video one:

Wrap-up video two:

Wrap-up video three: