OroValley Jazz Jam '07

The 8th annual Jazz Jam is scheduled for Saturday September 15th, and it sounds like fun! Enjoy drinks and hors d' oeuvres by the pool or kick back and relax with a blanket and a picnic basket on the lawn at the Hilton El Conquistador Resort while listening to some of the greatest Jazz musicians in the world. Let me tell you that there is nothing like sitting on the grounds of the El Conquistador Resort, gazing up at the magnificent Catalina Mountains as the sun sets and listening to great Jazz music! Basic seating tickets as well as sponsorship tickets are available thru the Greater Oro Valley Arts Council website, and VIP tickets including a three course dinner and wine are also available. If the thought of enjoying an incredible night under the stars while relaxing to the soothing sounds of smooth jazz sounds good, visit the Greater Oro Valley Arts Council before seats sell out!

Dance Fever in Oro Valley

Titled the Dancin' Geckos, this piece was created by Mathew Moutafis in June 2002. Located at the SW corner of Home Depot in Oro Valley, it really stands out against all the contractors trucks loading up on supplies next door. Home Depot and Alberstons were responsible for the project and its cost of $32,000. This metal sculpture is painted teal, and a material resembling brightly colored stain glass is inlayed and shines in the sunlight, making the geckos appear to dance. Pretty groovy!

Map to Dancin' Geckos

The Singing Coyote

The Singing Coyote was created by Mark Rossi and is located at the front entrance of a shopping area on the SW corner of La Canada and Lambert. The center features a few restaurants and other commercial businesses. This little guy appears to be "singing" , but to who? The moon, his partners in crime, nobody really knows. Approved in May 2003, this little fellow cost $2,300. No wonder he's singing!

Map to Singing Coyote

Mosaic Tile Furniture at Pizzeria Uno

This beautiful mosaic outdoor furniture is the work of Teresa Tile works, and is located at the front entrance of Pizzeria Uno. The work was approved in June of 2001 and the cost of the work was $10,000. Unfortunately my picture is not clear, so you really need to stop by and visit to see all the incredible detail and color involved. Stop by the restaurant for a drink and have a seat while you wait for your table.

Map to Pizzeria Uno

Oro Valley Learning Tree

My first entry regarding Oro Valley artwork is about a piece that really seems to sum up the beauty and creativity that each work represents, but also the education and passion that this artist is trying to convey. The Learning Tree, located on the SE corner of the Oro Valley Public Library is a bronzed sculpture that does just that. Approved in October 2002, this piece cost $32,000. Unfortunately the artist's name was not released, but his/her message regarding the importance of literacy was made clear with the following script that's located in the open faced book under the tree -

The more you read

The more you know

The more you grow

The stronger your voice

When speaking your mind

Or making a choice

It's really something to see, especially when the sun is shining down on the on the tree and leaves glitter like gold. If you're not familiar with the area I've provided a link below with directions.

Oro Valley Public Library Directions

Welcome to the Oro Valley Arts Blog!

Situated in the foothills of the Catalinas, Oro Valley is one of the state's leaders in public art projects. Almost $2 million worth of public art has been purchased by developers and the Town of Oro Valley in the last 10 years, the result of an ordinance passed in 1997 requiring 1 percent of the total of every new commercial construction budget in the town be designated for the purchase of public art. The Greater Oro Valley Arts Council plays a important role in the 1 percent for Public Art Program, by consulting with the town and developers to determine guidelines, locations and goals for individuals projects. GOVAC collects submissions from local artists and assist in the selection process. This results in a unique "outdoor art museum" that can lead residents and visitors throughout the Oro Valley area.

I've created this Blog to provide information about the Oro Valley community and it's focus on the arts. As there are over 30 pieces of artwork in the Oro Valley area, I will include blog entries describing the various works, along with photos and a little history behind them (when I can find any history!) I'll also include information about upcoming events in the "Oro Valley art world". Please enjoy the site and feel free to make comments and suggestions at any time!