– The ArtWalk in Downtown Scottsdale Turns 40 –
On October 23rd, the Scottsdale Gallery Association celebrated the 40th Anniversary of its very popular Thursday night Art Walk in Old Town Scottsdale. The evening’s festivities began with the Coronado Dons Marching Band and Flag Bearers from the Scottsdale School District who led a parade through town on the Art Walk trail.
Vice Mayor Guy Phillips of the Scottsdale City Council was on hand to read a proclamation from Governor Brewer as well as a letter from Scottsdale City Mayor Lane. Gathered around the speaker’s podium were store owners, vendors and many tourists and locals who were there to share in the celebration.
I frequently go to downtown Scottsdale on Thursday evenings for the weekly ArtWalk. I like strolling among the art galleries that stay open from 7 to 9 PM, welcoming everyone and sharing their beautiful and diverse works of art.
noted a grand opening sign on a new store called Art of Merlot. I enjoy these kinds of businesses where you bring a bottle of wine (or any beverage of your choice) and you are walked through the steps to create a pre-selected painting. I did this a couple of years ago and now have a fun piece of art after being led step-by-step (not paint by number!) by an artist. This business should be a fun addition to the Old Town area.
After the Art Walk, I strolled over to the Waterfront and was pleased to see many new stores featuring fabulous jewelry, designer furniture and two or three amazingly unique stationery stores.
I did miss one venue that is on my list to visit and write about. The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMOCA) is located at 7374 East Second Street in Scottsdale and has evolved into a fascinating museum with diverse and interesting exhibits. Find out more about the Museum by going to www.smoca.org. It’s open daily with reasonable entry fees and hosts various events throughout the year.
The Scottsdale ArtWalk is a fabulous attraction that keeps Old Scottsdale one of the most popular areas to visit and shop.
