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Madaras Gallery, located on Swan Road in Tucson, AZ, welcomes with a Madaras original on aluminum, which will you color and joy for years, even in the Arizona sun.
Hey there, fellow art lovers! When I first decided to pack up and head West, I was beyond excited—not just because I’d be closer to my son, but also because I couldn’t wait to dive into the Southwest art scene. As a stained glass artisan for some 25 years, I was all kinds of eager to see where my craft could go in this vibrant, colorful, new environment.
You might remember Kevin Lynch, that visionary urban planner who said cities should be “made by art, shaped for human purposes.” I’ve always loved that idea, and it’s more relevant than ever today. Culture isn’t just about pretty things to look at; it’s shaping our cities in big ways. Did you know that according to a March 2024 report from the National Endowment for the Arts and the Bureau of Economic Analysis, the arts and cultural industries contributed a whopping $1.1 trillion—4.3% of the U.S. GDP—to our economy in 2022? That’s huge!
Now, while big cities like New York are known for this, Tucson is also making waves. Here, art isn’t just transforming the city; it’s driving growth in ways you can see and feel. Tucson’s downtown is experiencing a real renaissance, with the arts at the heart of it.
Tucson is home to over 200 arts-related organizations and dozens of galleries, making it a magnet for people, businesses, and visitors. Let me share some gems with you:
- Philabaum Glass Gallery & Studio: Ever seen blown glass art that makes you go “wow”? This is the place, showcasing stunning works by local legend, Tom Philabaum.
“The Dignity of Peace” by Ray Tigerman; 36×60, original acrylic
- DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun: It’s not just art; it’s history. This National Historic District is where Ted DeGrazia worked his magic, and it’s set on 10 beautiful acres.
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Madaras Gallery: I paid my first visit to this gallery a couple of days ago and was blown away by the collection of amazing talent from artists across Arizona. If you’re into Southwestern art, Diana Madaras’ award-winning work, and that of her guest artists, will not disappoint.
But here’s the thing—the arts here aren’t just for show. They’re changing the fabric of our neighborhoods. Just like in cities around the globe, Tucson’s arts scene is driving real estate and development. Areas near cultural spots are seeing new life, with investments pouring in and property values going up.
It’s not just about economics, though. Art in Tucson builds community, turns neighborhoods into vibrant, joyful, places where you want to hang out, live, and engage. It’s what I call “artful living,” where creativity and community are at the core of urban growth.
Discover the allure of Diana Madaras’ gallery, featuring exquisite, high-end artworks alongside lovely, budget-friendly gifts.
Sotheby’s, founded in 1744, stands as one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious auction houses, renowned for its rich history and unparalleled expertise in the art market. Located in the heart of London, with additional salerooms in New York, Hong Kong, and beyond, Sotheby’s has been the stage for some of the most significant sales and cultural moments in art, antiques, jewelry, and collectibles. With a legacy of curating and selling masterpieces, from Old Masters to contemporary art, Sotheby’s not only facilitates the exchange of cultural treasures but also shapes the narratives of art history, connecting collectors, artists, and enthusiasts across the globe. Click here for our current and upcoming exhibitions and auctions and to explore the latest in art and luxury.
Heather Neill, Stained Glass Artisan
Heather Neill, wearer of many hats, is an Associate Broker and Global Real Estate Advisor for Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty, and stained glass artisan for 25 years, specializing in high quality, custom, bespoke pieces.
