Art

Art in Tucson has a distinctive feel

Inspired by the subtle hues and changing light of the expansive Sonoran Desert, as well as the vibrant urban artistic community, artists flock to this corner of Arizona. From the traditional to the experimental, the arts are alive in Tucson. Our varied and distinct southwestern heritage also shimmers through the arts being created in this region, with voices of our Native American, Spanish and Mexican ancestors informing new generations. These influences woven together with the stories of the American Cowboy and the old west is what makes the cultural and artistic fabric of Tucson so rich and unique.

The galleries at Tohono Chul are a special place where these many influences come together, with exhibitions that explore the region through the eyes of our talented local artists and through the cultural stories that define and connect us.

Click on the links below to see all the great programs the gallery has to offer


Arts Programming

The Exhibits Department just received a $25,000 Community Investment Grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts for the third year in a row and a $7,500 General Operating Support Grant from the Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona for their arts programming and support of the local artist community! Did you know that Tohono Chul’s Exhibits Program, going into its 34th year, consistently works with more Arizona Artists than other arts organizations with comparable budgets in the state? The 2018-2019 Exhibition Calendar was extremely active, playing host to 153 exhibiting artists and featuring 1,055 artworks in 20 exhibitions. With recognition and financial assistance from the Arizona Commission on the Arts, the exhibitions scheduled for 2018-2019 will attract more artists from across the state and add to the rich history of Tohono Chul.

$25,000 in 2020, 2019 and 2018! from Arizona Commission for the Arts

The Arizona Commission on the Arts provides grants, programs, services and leadership in support of arts and arts education programs. In partnership with arts organizations, schools, festivals and individual artists, we endeavor to celebrate Arizona’s diverse communities and rich cultural traditions, inspire creativity, grow local economies and enhance quality of life for all Arizonans.

To learn more about ACA visit their website here.

$7,500 from Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona

The Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona mission is to advance artistic expression, civic participation, and equitable economic growth of our diverse community by supporting, promoting, and advocating for arts and culture in our region. They provide arts and cultural development services through direct funding, technical assistance and professional development opportunities, and manages the creation of public art for the City of Tucson and Pima County.

To learn more about Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona visit their website here


ARTISTORIES Interview with James Schaub

In this Episode of ARTISTORIES, James Schaub, Curator of Exhibitions at Tohono Chul talks about the current Dia de los Muertos Exhibition and its history, including this year’s ofrenda makers, Antonio Estrada and Gloria Valenzuela. He also talks about the art of current and past exhibitions and artists exhibited at Tohono Chul.


Join Our Art Exhibits Email List:

To receive regular updates of our exhibitions and receptions, subscribe below and when prompted, select the Exhibition Announcements & Receptions email list.

For Artists: To receive emails with exhibition opportunities including calls-for-entries, subscribe below and select the News and Opportunities for Artists email list.