July News – 2026

Independence, Inclusivity + Innovation: Celebrating America 250 at Sedona Arts Center

As America approaches its 250th anniversary, Sedona Arts Center invites you to join us for an extraordinary season of exhibitions that celebrate the creativity, diversity, and enduring spirit of our nation. Throughout FY27, we will present a dynamic lineup of exhibitions inspired by the theme “Independence, Inclusivity + Innovation: Celebrating America 250.”

From thought-provoking contemporary works to beloved annual traditions, this season reflects the many stories, cultures, and creative voices that define America.

Freedom

July 3 – August 16, 2026

We begin the season with Freedom, a powerful national exhibition exploring the many meanings of liberation—personal, political, cultural, and creative. Through painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, and installation, artists examine what freedom means across different experiences and communities, reminding us of art’s remarkable ability to inspire dialogue, challenge perspectives, and create meaningful change.

Beyond the Frame

August 21 – September 30, 2026

Innovation takes center stage with Beyond the Frame, celebrating artists who push creative boundaries through experimental materials, unconventional techniques, and bold new ideas. This exhibition showcases the evolving future of contemporary art while honoring the courage it takes to challenge expectations.

Sedona Plein Air at 22

October 26 – November 29, 2026

One of Sedona Arts Center’s signature traditions returns as we celebrate the 22nd Annual Sedona Plein Air Festival. This exhibition features work created on location throughout Sedona and the Verde Valley, extending the Festival for another month and providing the public another opportunity to see the work. The result is a stunning collection of paintings filled with the vibrant light, color, and beauty that make Sedona one of America’s most inspiring artistic destinations.

Holiday Market Exhibit + Sale

December 4–6, 2026

Find one-of-a-kind gifts while supporting regional artists during our annual Holiday Market Exhibit + Sale. Featuring up to 40 artists working in ceramics, jewelry, painting, fiber art, photography, glass, wood, mixed media, and more, this festive event offers something special for every collector and holiday shopper.

Out of the Fire: Ceramic Expression in the American Spirit

December 9, 2026 – January 10, 2027

This annual exhibition showcases outstanding student work alongside, for the first time, works by ceramics instructors. In celebration of America 250, Out of the Fire highlights the innovation, craftsmanship, and enduring American spirit that have defined Sedona Arts Center’s nationally recognized ceramics program since 1958.

Vision + Sound: An African American Experience

January 15 – February 28, 2027

Originally founded by Norma and Michael Cunningham and now proudly hosted by Sedona Arts Center, Vision + Soundcelebrates the artistic excellence and cultural contributions of African American artists from across Arizona. Through visual art, performances, artist talks, workshops, and an annual symposium in partnership with Arizona State University’s Center for the Study of Race & Democracy, the exhibition fosters meaningful conversations about identity, history, and community.

46th Annual Juried Friends Show

March 5 – April 18, 2027

A longtime favorite, the Friends Show brings together emerging and established artists from across the country working across every medium. This juried exhibition celebrates artistic excellence while offering visitors an inspiring look at the incredible diversity of today’s creative landscape.

First Peoples Exhibit

April 23 – May 30, 2027

The First Peoples Exhibit honors the rich artistic traditions and contemporary voices of Native American artists from the Southwest. Featuring pottery, weaving, jewelry, painting, and mixed media, the exhibition celebrates Indigenous creativity while sharing stories rooted in heritage, identity, and connection to the land.

17th Big Gay Art Show

June 4 – July 18, 2027

Closing the season is the beloved 17th Big Gay Art Show, an annual juried exhibition celebrating the creativity of LGBTQIA+ artists from across the country and their allies. Since its beginnings in 2009, the exhibition has grown into one of Sedona Arts Center’s most anticipated events, offering an inclusive, joyful space where artists from all backgrounds can share their stories and inspire connection.

A Season That Celebrates America Through Art

This year’s exhibition schedule reflects the many voices that make America’s creative landscape so vibrant. Together, these exhibitions explore freedom and innovation, honor cultural heritage, embrace diverse perspectives, and celebrate the power of artistic expression to bring people together.

We invite you to join us throughout the year as we celebrate America 250 through exhibitions that inspire conversation, foster community, and showcase the extraordinary creativity that continues to shape our nation.

We look forward to welcoming you to Sedona Arts Center for an unforgettable season.

I hope to see you soon!

Warmly,

Julie A. Richard