1958
Canyon Kiva Begins
Inspired by Sedona and led by Egyptian sculptor Nassan Gobran, local visionaries established Sedona's first art center as a place where artists could work, teach, and learn together.
About SAC
A Creative Home Since 1958
Sedona Arts Center grew from a small group of artists and visionaries into a cultural anchor for Northern Arizona, connecting people through art, education, exhibitions, and creative discovery.
Background
From Canyon Kiva to Sedona Arts Center
The Art Barn and SAC campus have been a creative gathering place through decades of growth, reinvention, and community commitment.
1961
Sedona Arts Center Opens
The organization became Sedona Arts Center and officially reopened with a celebration attended by 300 guests, becoming a lasting creative and social hub.
1994
A Growing Campus
A new building added an art gallery, classroom space, and room for community theatre, expanding how SAC served artists, students, and visitors.
2001
Education and Exhibitions
The mission was refined around education through SAC School of the Arts and gallery exhibitions of the visual arts.
2021
A Renewed Vision
Emerging from the pandemic, SAC began a new strategic phase focused on arts education, community leadership, and a broader regional and national role.
Today
A Living Legacy
As one of Northern Arizona's oldest 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, SAC continues to be a gathering place for artists and the community.
Vision, Mission, Values
Rooted in place, focused on creativity
Vision
Our vision is that Sedona is a center for excellence in the arts.
Mission
Our mission is to connect, enrich, educate and lead through the inspiring power of the arts and creative discovery.
Legacy
SAC continues the founders' belief that artists and community flourish when they have a place to gather, learn, exhibit, and exchange ideas.
Organizational Values
- Innovative - Always advancing excellence
- Agile - Resilient amidst changing situations
- Inclusive - Welcoming of diverse people and perspectives
- Collaborative - Cultivating generosity and community spirit
- Transparent - Deserving of trust
- Respectful - Being mindful and purposeful with each other
- Grounded - Energized by our unique sense of place
Experience SAC today
Visit the gallery, explore workshops, or support the next chapter of Sedona Arts Center.