Art Connection - Summer '23

editor’s WELCOME

A s summer rolls on we take some time out to cel- ebrate the richness of the season. It’s been a hot one here in Scottsdale, but that hasn’t kept us from celebrating the beauty around us and the positive impact of art in all forms. Most recently, we spent a day at the Musical Instru- ment Museum (MIM) in Phoenix. This museum is nothing short of spectacular, celebrating the impact of music and showcasing instruments from around the world! What a treasure and a must-see attraction in the Phoenix/Scottsdale area. Our travels will soon take us to Santa Fe, New Mexico to explore and dis- cover the world of art in this renowned destination. Look for some highlights in our next issue. The summer artist spotlight shines on Gabriela Aguilo. Her mixed media and encaustic works of art strike an ethereal chord, inviting the viewer to discover the story and emotion behind each work of art. In this intriguing interview, Gabriela shares how her dreams inspire her art and communicate universal messages of healing, love and self discovery.

some of the most intriguing precious and semi-pre- cious gemstones and elevate them to new heights by blending them with their signature style to create exquisite works of wearable art. Isabelle Posillico, Luciano Bortone, Paul Farmer and Shelli Kahl (Shell- Bell) take you on a journey through gemology, met- alsmithing and the immense craft that goes into their work. Step into a bit of art history and the stunning art studio of Stuart Yankell. Once owned by renowned sculptor Gutzon Borglum of Mount Rushmore fame, and several other impactful American artists, this studio is now where Stuart works his magic. The stu- dio, with hand-carved stone walls and soaring ceiling heights (to fit Borglum’s sculptures), are providing a backdrop for Stuart to experiment with scale. But this isn’t the only way this new space is influencing his work. Read on to find out what else it has inspired. Finally, be sure to catch the "Caring for Your Art" arti- cle. Artists share some of their expert tips for preserv- ing the longevity of your art (and your investment!). Back home here in Scottsdale, we are focused on curating and putting together the roster and plans for the 34th annual Celebration of Fine Art in 2024. We will be back at our same location just south of The Loop 101 in Scottsdale. Mark your calendars to join us between January 14 – March 24, 2024, and discover for yourself what lies in store. In the meantime, please be sure to keep up with the latest news and available works of art at celebrateart.com.

Out of a dream-like state, be whisked away to colorful world of gems in our Hidden Gems feature story. Meet some of our talented jewelers who painstakingly find

~Susan and Jake Potje

"Raven's View" 60" x60" by Stuart Yankell

Accordion on display at the MIM.

Paul Farmer with one of his many tools.

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Issue 1 | Summer 2023

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