editor’s WELCOME A s we have just wrapped up our 34th season of the Celebration of Fine Art our hearts are filled with gratitude for the one-of-a-kind experience that happens under the “big white tent”. We are grate- ful to every artist and every visitor who journeyed through the door to share in the experience of inspiring energy and creativity that courses through the tent. Each day we heard people express the delight and joy they felt as they walked through the show and connected with the artists at work. The diversity of talent and mediums was unrivaled. The welcoming spirit of the artists matched the curiosity and intrigue of the visitors. A good time was had by all. And, amid all that fun, vast amounts of art were acquired by enthusiastic collectors and art lovers. We are humbled by the thought of how many homes––large and small, near and far, and modern to traditional––are enhanced by works of art from the Celebra- tion of Fine Art. The truth is, it is not just about acquiring the art, but the connection to the artist and the story that enhances the value and experience of collecting at the Celebration. More than 30 years ago, we could not have imagined what the ripple effect would be of bringing art lovers and artists together under one big roof. In this issue, we invite you to connect with and discover more about mother and son abstract artists Robin and Colin Branham. Find out more about their artistic story of legacy and growth. Next, read about how artists use unexpected mediums in expressing their artistic vision. Then get an inside look at the working studio of sculptor Ryan Schmidt. In 2025, you will find us in our new location just a stone’s throw away (quite literally) to the south of our current location. Although we are not moving far, we will be busy putting in all of the infrastructure that supports the tent allowing us to provide a home for creativity and con- nectivity where you can continue to be part of the Celebration story! To get an idea of what it takes to make it all happen each year, read “Making Magic”. The article will take you behind the scenes, giving you a glimpse of just some of the work that takes place throughout the year. Finally, stay tuned for updates throughout the year as we prepare for our 35th Anniversary. Opening January 18, 2025. And thank you again for an unforgettable 2024 season!
ARTIST SPOTLIGHT: ROBIN & COLIN BRANHAM How abstract art has influenced three generations of Branhams and how they're carrying on the legacy. UNEXPECTED MEDIUMS There is often more to art than what initially meets the eye. Discover some of the artists who are using unthinkable materials to create art rich with story.
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JOURNEY INTO THE UNEXPECTED Explore more artwork composed of interesting materials that surprise and delight.
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FROM THE ARTIST STUDIO: A CONVERSATION WITH RYAN SCHMIDT Journey inside the "tiny" studio where Ryan composes his massive steel sculptures. He also shares some of the complexities that come with stretching metal. MAKING MAGIC: HOW THE CELEBRATION OF FINE ART COMES TOGETHER What does it take to bring a show of this caliber to fruition every year? Susan Morrow Potje shares just some of the moving parts and pieces of this year- round operation.
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Artist Spotlight: Robin & Colin Branham
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10 Journey Into the
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Unexpected Mediums: Using unthinkable materials to craft a story
Unexpected: Materials that surpise and delight
On the cover: "Three Generations", 60x48, acrylic, Robert, Robin and Colin Branham
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ART CONNECTION DISCOVER NEW AND CONNECT
From the Artist Studio: Venture inside Ryan's temporary studio at the Celebration of Fine Art.
CONTACT US Celebration of Fine Art 7900 E. Greenway Rd., Suite 101 Scottsdale, AZ 85260
480.443.7695 | info@celebrateart.com celebrateart.com
14 Beyond the Tent: Discover just some of the year-round operations that go into putting the Celebration of Fine Art together.
~ Susan and Jake Potje
Issue 3 | Winter/Spring 2024
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Issue 3 | Winter/Spring 2024
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