Hidden in the Hills Artist Studio Tour

Last Day of 2011 Tour!

2011-11-27T09:27:00.000-07:00

It's a completely beautiful day, and it's the last day to visit our 45 open artist studios here in the desert foothills.

Take a look at this video of studios from last year HERE.

And then go to our website at HiddenintheHills.org to plan your own custom tour before you set off!

And don't forget that we have many studio profiles and short videos from this year's tour right here on our blog. Just look in the October and November archives.

Thanks so much for your interest and support of our event and of the Sonoran Arts League!

Jeanne Bonine, Studio No. 29

2011-11-26T15:52:00.005-07:00

Jeanne's luscious floral watercolors have made many an art lover devoted collectors over the year. This year, she is also exhibiting paintings inspired by her trip to Kenya. Come by to get jazzed for Christmas with her multiple trees and to see one of the loveliest studios and homes on the tour.

Here is a snippet of Jeanne's offerings:

If you are not seeing a video screen, just click HERE to watch the video.

See you this weekend! www.hiddeninthehills.org

BH Bowman Studios, Studio 13

2011-11-26T06:00:00.002-07:00

Abstract painter Barbara Bowman shares her studio with photographer Frank Biondo and ceramicist Vickie Morrow. Be sure to visit on Saturday when she offers live music in the beautiful high Sonoran Desert setting.

If you are not seeing a video screen, just click HERE to view the video.

See you this weekend! www.hiddeninthehills.org

Studio at Canyon del Oro, No. 9

2011-11-25T18:30:00.007-07:00

Host Paulette Nikel invites you to visit the most hidden of all the studios hidden in the hills. Desert views like you've never seen before, as well as old master style oil paintings by Paulette, pet and wildlife paintings by Jan Taylor, and unique fine jewelry by Patti Windes.

Take a quick glance at our video to get a taste of what you'll see!

If you are not seeing a video screen, please click HERE to view the video.

Make your own custom map at hiddeninthehills.org. See you this weekend!

Jaye & Les Lawrence Studio, No. 20

2011-11-25T06:30:00.002-07:00

We have already profiled the Lawrence Studio, but we did want to share this 1-minute video of what it has to offer. The artwork is unusual and edgy and creative, and you really must stop by!

If you are not seeing a video screen, please click HERE to go the video.

Many thanks for your patronage, and we'll see you on the tour this weekend!

www.hiddeninthehills.org

Desert Rat Forge and Desert Studio, Nos. 8 and 10

2011-11-24T18:30:00.000-07:00

Paul Diefenderfer of Desert Rat Forge and his guest artists Liz Carlier, Joshua States and Rodger LaBrash are hitting the iron pretty hard in this demo-intensive studio. They have also joined forces with Desert Studio, featuring host and glass artist David Wheeler and his guests Elizabeth dunlop (water, glass and mixed media) and Jane Odom (glass and jewelry).

Take a look at this short video to get a taste of these exciting artists hidden in desert highlands

If you are not seeing a video screen, please click HERE to view the video.

Make your own custom map at hiddeninthehills.org. See you this weekend!

Linda Blumel Studio, No. 27

2011-11-24T06:30:00.008-07:00

At Linda Blumel's studio, you will see unique bracelets, necklaces and earrings, ceramic vessels and sculptures, watercolor, acrylic and oil paintings, mosaic mirrors and myriad other creations.

We offer you a glimpse of it all with this short video!

If you are not seeing a video screen, please click HERE to view.

See you this weekend!
Make your custom map at www.hiddeninthehills.org!

Christoph's Ceramic Studio, No. 31

2011-11-23T06:30:00.009-07:00

A fine art ceramicist for 35 years, Christopher Heede creates incredibly beautiful artwork. His ceramics and glass art is inspired by nature, especially the Arizona Sonoran Desert, with its expansive sky, dramatic monsoon storms, and the variety of life.

Take a moment to watch this 1-minute video for a taste of your coming visit to the studio.

If you are not seeing the video screen, please click HERE for your viewing pleasure.

See you there this weekend!

Virginia Brooks Studio, No. 16

2011-11-22T06:30:00.004-07:00

Oil painter Virginia Brooks (virginiabrooks.com) invites you to her Carefree studio for beautiful scenery, art and fun conversations with her guest artists: fine jeweler Donna Law (dlawjewelrydesigns.com); bronze sculptor Paula Yates (paulayatessculpture.com); and watercolorist and 2011 HITH cover artist Steve Stento (stevestento.com).

Please take a look at this 2-minute video for a taste of your coming visit to Studio 16!

If you are not seeing the video screen, please click HERE for your viewing pleasure.

See you there this weekend!

Robert Thornley Sculpture Studio, No. 15

2011-11-21T06:30:00.006-07:00

Acclaimed sculptor Robert Thornley considers his vocation a living collaboration with the stone, his chosen medium. Robert's sculptures harmonize with the natural surroundings of his desert sculpture garden in the center of Cave Creek.

Please take a look at this 1-minute video for a taste of what you will find at Studio 15. (www.robertthornley.com)

If you are not seeing the video, please click HERE to be directed to the Sonoran Arts League's YouTube channel.

See you next weekend!

Katalin Ehling Studio, No. 36

2011-11-19T18:30:00.008-07:00

Batik artist Katalin Ehling welcomes you to her studio.

Studio 36 continues in its 15th year of offering the finest quality in the art of jewelry, wooodturning, and batiks both on fabric and on paper.

Studio Host Katalin Ehling introduces her just published memoir, WAXING LIFE. In it, she shares her fifty year art adventure, forty of which have been in the art of batik.

In addition to new works, Katalin will also be featuring some Southwest and other batiks which are highlighted in her book.

Wood vessel by Morrie Elmer

Morrie Elmer, hollow vessel wood turner extraordinaire, returns for his 13th year in Katalin’s studio. His use of exotic woods and precious gems such as turquoise and coral showcase the uniqueness of his creations.

Fine jewelry by Joan Gould

Jeweler Joan Gould

Third generation Arizona native Joan Gould’s creative spirit finds home in the Sonoran Desert and the San Francisco Peaks just north of Flagstaff. Her one of a kind pieces of fine jewelry are a combination of metals and gems, truly unique pieces in gold, silver and bronze.

Morrie Elmer's wood vessels

All the artists enjoy demonstrating and talking about their techniques. Please join us in a delightful setting, pausing to refresh with a drink and various snack items.

Painted Hills Studio, No. 6

2011-11-19T06:00:00.019-07:00

Rub a dub dub,
FIVE maids formed a club
And what do you think they do?

A Batiker, Two Painters,
A Master Printmaker,
And a Metal Embosser too!

Meet them ALL at STUDIO No. 6 ~ The Painted Hills Studio! Join us for Printmaking Demos and Repujado Basics. Catherine will be watercolor painting as time allows.

batik by Cathy Ross

Cathy Ross ~ Colorful Batiks on Paper and Wood (catherinerossstudio.com)

With Sunshiny Faces, watercolor by Catherine Sickafoose

Catherine Sickafoose ~ Snapshots in Watercolor (catherinesickafoose.com)

Untitled I, acrylic by Carole Matthews

Carole Matthews ~ Lively Acrylics

Corn Maiden, etching by Marjorie Rogers

Marjorie Rogers ~ Original Hand Printed Etchings (5acrearts.com/MarjorieRogers.html)

Metal embossing by Lynda Abare

Lynda Abare ~ REPUJADO, the Fine Art of Metal Embossing (acrearts.com/lyndaAbare.html)

See you in the hills!

Laughing Glass Studio, No. 41

2011-11-18T06:00:00.005-07:00

Laughing Glass Studio is full of color and light and laughs.

Laughing Glass Studio (www.laughingglass.com) was founded in 1990 by a "corporate refugee" and "truck driver." For 2 years Carole Perry and Don Carroll honed their glass making skills and learned art retailing at outdoor craft fairs.

Serengheti, glass tapestry

A former IBMer, Carole Perry, began developing her signature style and moved from craft fairs to galleries with the acceptance of her unique Glass Tapestries (freehand sculpture made of 1000's of glass threads). Her signature work can be found in top glass galleries from California to Florida as well as in serious glass collections around the world.

Trucker turned artist Don Carroll deliberately placed his emphasis on responding to a growing demand for affordable and functional art glass. His decorative platters, bowls and dinnerware often include designs that reflect his love of the old west and out west. He even uses real gold pans for molds. The past few years have seen a more stylized and contemporary design evolve.

The work coming out of Laughing Glass Studio today is constantly evolving. Last year's muted elegance has given way to contemporary abstracts in bold new colors and shapes. Imagine triangular dinnerware, square bowls and horizontal vessels. Bright colored polka dots abound.

Collaboration between Laughing Glass
and guest artist Claudia Robinson

In addition to art tableware, Laughing Glass Studio is emerging as a preeminent source for unique art glass awards and custom architectural glass, including tables, tiles, light sconces and custom "window" panels. A long and successful collaboration with Claudia Robinson, metal sculptor, has generated The Original Poppy Gardens, HandStand Kids, Ocotillos, tables large and small, and the delightful kinetic sculptures, Wind Totems. This year’s newest collaboration can only be described as “seeing is believing!”

Mixed media, Claudia Robinson

Time to Make Your Custom Tour Map!

2011-11-17T19:00:00.002-07:00

Okay, folks, it's time to do a little art research and design your custom tour map.

Start by clicking HERE.

Click on a studio number and take a gander at the artists showing there. Click on a name and you'll find examples of their art.

Add your favorites artists and studios to your tour with the links provided.

Print it out when you're done! The studios you chose to visit will be highlighted on the map printout!

You can even save your custom map and come back later to change it. Pretty cool, huh? We love our website. So will you, and ....

See you this weekend!

Karen Leeds & Bela Fidel, Studio 25

2011-11-17T06:00:00.024-07:00

Karen Leeds and Bela Fidel promise a colorful visit!

Near the Edge, Karen Leeds

Karen Leeds and Bela Fidel are a “regular stop” on the Hidden in the Hills Tour, specializing in contemporary, abstract paintings and original small gifts. It is easy to access from major streets but it is also tucked away in an inviting desert setting perfect for this show. If you are coming from the south, this is a great first studio to visit.

Lightness of Being, Bela Fidel

Both artists are well known locally with works hanging in prominent public venues in the valley. Karen (karenleeds.com) works in acrylic, oil pastel, and in vibrantly colored silk paintings and scarves. She is also introducing a new way of hanging her original silk paintings using bamboo, river rocks, copper wire, semi-precious beads, feathers and more. Visit Studio 25 for silk painting demonstrations, and to see her unique and organic alternative to traditional framing.

Bela (belafidel.com) creates elegant abstractions in oils, as well as striking compositions in encaustics (hot wax), a technique dating back thousands of years. Bela says of her art, “My intention is to develop abstract work that is elegant and beautiful. Since elegance implies simplicity, I am seeking to find expression with a minimalist abstraction while also occasionally using geometric and non-geometric shapes.” Bela will be doing encaustic demonstrations on Fridays and Sundays.

Pink Peonies, Corinne McAuley
15" x 6", 27,000 beads

In addition, we are very pleased to host a guest bead artist this year named Corinne McAuley (corinnemcauleyfineart.com), whose intricate tapestries working thousands of beads into complex patterns offers visitors a glimpse of a medium not to be seen anywhere else on the tour. Corinne and her work were recently featured in the Sonoran News. All three artists are juried members of the Sonoran Arts League.

Fall Fire, Corinne McAuley
12" x 12", 42,700 beads

Studio 25 offers informative and fun demonstrations covering six mediums, impressive art galleries, original small treasures for holiday gift giving, and plenty of enticing refreshments. We look forward to sharing our passion and Holiday cheer with you!

BH Bowman Studios, Studio 13

2011-11-15T16:47:00.026-07:00

Desert Bloom by Barbara Bowman

Largely self taught, Barbara Bowman draws much of her from the Abstract Expressionism style of the Color-Field genre employed by American artist, Mark Rothko. Like Rothko, Bowman pays vigorous attention to balanced, brilliant hues, depth, and expanding dimensions in mostly duel color fields. Her colors are intricately woven and meticulously layered one on top of the other to create a visual journey. Her pieces literally jump off the wall.

Barbara says, “Personal expression is full of complexities. It’s our bright side, our dark side and the connection between them. And it’s how we relate to our surroundings. Ultimately, it’s about simplifying the complexities to find the perfect balance of who we are.” www.bhbowmanstudios.com/

Through the creative fusion of photography and digital painting, Frank Biondo’s work brings together aspects of impressionism and realism that gives each piece a uniquely distinctive character. The final piece embodies the spirit of both a photograph and a painting.

While in college, Frank majored in advertising art, photography and fine art. He spent his professional career in the advertising world, as an art director for 35 years at New York ‘s top ad agencies, and later establishing his own graphic design studio. When time allowed, Frank would paint in his favorite medium, watercolor. Now he combines his love of photography and painting to create unique works of art that embody both disciplines. www.frankbiondo.com

Vickie Morrow is a tile and mosaic artist and a potter. Most of the time, she even makes tile for her mosaic backsplashes, table tops, mirrors, trays and art pieces.

Vickie also hand builds vessels, bowls and vases. She is always experimenting with different clays, shapes, different construction techniques and the wonderful world of high fire glazes.

Recently Vickie installed a 50" x 50" handmade tile mosaic commission for the new Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Currently Vickie is doing a volunteer mosaic, working with the families of South Mountain for the new Salvation Army South Mountain Kroc Center. Vickie offers mosaic classes from her home in Scottsdale. tileartmosaics.com

Studio 13 is your lucky number for a stimulating artist studio visit!

Hideaway Studio, No. 26

2011-11-13T16:24:00.002-07:00

Fine art photography

The three artists in Hideaway Studios all are contemporary artists although in different mediums. Kazu Okutomi's photography is dramatic and decorative, not the usual landscape. He brings the experience of 46 years in fine art and commercial photography taken across the United States to the show. Much of his work is dramatically framed and instantly catches the eye, creating unique pieces for today's homes and offices. (kazuphoto.com)

Green Mystique, Pat Stacy

Pat Stacy works in acrylics and mixed media to create colorful, abstract, contemporary paintings that capture the eye, imagination and heart. Working with symbols, she leads the viewer to ponder the stories and questions in the painting as well as enjoy the shapes, colors and forms on the textured canvas.

Gourd art, Reg McCormick

Reg McCormick (www.omygourd.com) is a gourd artist specializing in unusual design, shape and form. Reg is not your usual gourd artist. You will not find feathers and findings in most of his work, but rather intricate and creative carving and design that embellish and bring the gourd to life.

Hideaway Studio, also known as Kazu Photography Studio, presents a unique variety of work, and should not to be missed.

Linda Budge Studio, No. 14

2011-11-12T18:58:00.040-07:00

The Golden Tones, Linda Budge

Studio No. 14 is one of three studios located along the Galloway Wash, with good parking and availability. We invite you to come and see us! Pick up a directory, map, a cup of coffee and a piece of our delicious home made coffee cake. And, while you're munching on that, take a look at our studio featuring Linda Budge, Kyle Hobratschk and Carolyn Sato.

Thorny Path, Linda Budge

Traditional in technique, with an emphasis on value, light and edges, Linda Budge's oil paintings depict wildlife caught up in the act of desert living. Her paintings are a portrayal of the moment, a walk on the wild side, a glimpse into nature. All painted in the classical realistic style she has exhibited for over 30 years as a professional artist. www.lindabudge.com

Artichoke Study, Kyle Hobratschk

Kyle Hobratschk uses the drawing based mediums of watercolor and printmaking to investigate both manmade and natural structures and their spatial relations. Recent work studies modest early to mid twentieth centur residential architecture and means of ornamentation. This body of work has been paralleled with designing and building functional furniture with an emphasis in joinery. www.kylehobratschk.com

Celestial Voyage, Carolyn Sato

Carolyn Sato's art education in the U.S and in Japan has yielded her unique limited edition bronze sculpturesthat honor" our world's magnificent "Celestial Voyage." She says, “My sculptures emerge from within and beyond—from my soul, my Muse, and the spirit of the piece itself. My job when I sculpt is to open to the pulsing flow-of-life message that unfolds during the co-creative process. www.soulartbycarolyn.com

A visit to Linda's studio means some very good artsy conversation in a relaxed and beautiful setting.

Coyote Crossing Studio, No. 11

2011-11-11T11:04:00.001-07:00

Coyote Crossing Studio sits on a hill in Cave Creek, overlooking Grapevine Wash. In addition to being Dick Mueller’s home and studio, it is home to abundant wildlife: the namesake coyotes, deer, javelina, bobcats and an assortment of birds, reptiles and rodents. Most of these creatures find their way into Dick’s art.

Dick Mueller, graphite & colored
pencil artist and studio host

Dick describes his inspiration, ”As the song says, ‘My heroes have always been cowboys’. Growing up with Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, and Hopalong laid the foundation for my love of and curiosity about the dress, faces, and activities of the west of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Using photographs (old and new) for inspiration, I try to paint a feeling and/or action with pencils. Working in a very representational style, my intent is to give the viewer a sense of nostalgia, curiosity, humor, peaceful reflection and inspiration.” Dick has been awarded first place in the drawing category at the Phippen Western Art Show in Prescott, AZ twice. www.coyotecrossingstudio.com

Mixed media and acrylic artist Jaxine Cummins considers herself a native Arizonan; she graduated from Tempe High School, raised two sons and attended night school at Glendale College, starting an art career at the young age of 50. Jaxine says "art" and a couple of great teachers changed her life for the better (a new way to see). Jaxine loves exploring life through the eyes of an artist. An eclectic artist, she uses almost all of the media and lets her imagination run wild. Jaxine is known for her exciting colors and her enthusiasm. She also likes getting new artists excited enough to explore. This came out when she taught the boys at Arizona Department of Corrections facility at Buckeye, the most exciting job she ever had. www.jaxine.com

Photographers Alan and Penny Lowy will be demonstrating their hand-coloring B&W photography techniques using colored pencils on digital images. Alan teaches weekend digital photography workshops year-round at his North Phoenix (New River) studio and he also teaches photography at PVCC Community College and at the Scottsdale Artist School. www.cavecreek-photo.com

Gourd artist Karen Friend explains, “One of the things I like about working with gourds is that each gourd has its own personality. I evaluate to see how that gourd can best be utilized with respect to its character and my own vision of how to bring out its hidden qualities."

When the design process begins, Karen creates a pencil sketch on the gourd. She then brings her design into sharper focus with burning and carving tools. For color, Karen utilizes a broad palette of shoe dyes, inks, acrylics, oils, watercolors and colored pencils. For texture: beadwork, precious stone inlay, metal conchos, seeds and natural objects such as antlers and gnarled wood locally harvested on her properties in the desert and in the mountains are used to embellish and enhance the basic gourd design. www.soaringspiritstudio.com

Justine Mantor-Waldie's art works reflect the vistas of the McDowell and Superstition Mountains she views from her Fountain Hills home. Her images focus on the shape-patterns seen across the land as she depicts the shifting abstractions of light and shadow as it is altered by the desert seasons, the time of day, or the weather patterns as they affect the clouds billowing across the sky. Justine achieves her highly unusual effects by using ink, acrylic paint, and oil pastels. www.justjustine.com

We look forward to seeing you this month!

Harmon Studios, No. 24

2011-11-10T12:11:00.000-07:00

Fine jewelry by Julia Harmon

Jon and Julia Harmon welcome you to a richly varied array of artwork from a number of local artists.

Pentaglobe by Jon Harmon

Bronze sculptor and painter Jon is teaming up with his wife Julia [jeweler] to create sculptural jewelry in both bronze and fine silver. Jon took the Award for Excellence in the 2010 SAL Small Works Show last year for his pendant Earthrise. In addition, he took 1st place in the Manhattan Beach Hometown Fair for a necklace and 2nd place in the Cave Creek Film & Art Festival for his Javaerolina sculpture in 2007. Jon also had a one-man show at Artist By the Sea gallery in Redondo Beach. Julia currently teaches jewelry classes at several venues in the East Valley and has shown at the Arizona Fine Art Expo. She sells her jewelry at two Taos museums and several stores.

Fused glass by Karen Ledin

Karen Ledin creates edgy, fun fused glass pieces that are both beautiful and functional. Each piece is unique and, when not in use, is meant to be displayed as artwork.

Artichoke by Donna Levine

Schooled in Florence, Italy, Donna Levine has taught art classes for over 40 years and currently teaches at several venues in the Valley. Her art appeared on the cover of Images AZ and in Phoenix Home and Garden. Donna currently serves as an art critic for the Sonoran Arts League and the ScottsdaleArtists League, and beginning in January, will again show at the Arizona Fine Art Expo.

Glass bead by Diane Sepanski

Diane Sepanski is a lampworking bead artist and jeweler. She received Fire Mountain Gems' 1st Place in Metals in 2009, an Award for Excellence for an Overseas Artist in the 2009 Art Clay Silver Accessories contest in Japan, 1st place in Mixed Media for 2010 Metal Clay Today magazine, has been featured in two calendars and Flow magazine. Diane also teaches glasswork and jewelry in the West Valley.

Studio at Galloway Wash, No. 12

2011-11-07T07:45:00.001-07:00

Judy Bruce and studio dog Winnie prepare for the big event.

One of Jim's cement dogs

Jim and Judy Bruce are preparing for an exciting Hidden in the Hills at Studio 12, along with their extraordinary guest artists.

Mixed media by Judy Bruce

The Bruce studio, as always, focuses on contemporary art. Jim Bruce (www.jimbruceart.com) has new cement dogs with wonderful gestures and a few surprise animals . Judy Bruce (www.judybruceart.com) has been working on her Vulnerable and Fractured images, as well as the Ravaged Face series with many new figures focusing on the dualities in life. You will find monotypes, watercolor, acrylics and oil all combined in mixed media. Judy explores texture, pattern and color in a surreal, expressive, abstract manner. Jim and Judy's abstract figures are metaphors for the joy and the despair of our times.

Acrylic by Marty Gibson

The visual world of science stimulates Marty Gibson's imagination with views of nature that can be stirring in its beauty, composition and texture. Taking the images and ideas of modern science and translating them through the medium of paint, she works to depict both their physical and metaphorical dimensions. She says, "I have chosen to work in an abstract manner, to go beyond and develop the images that interest me." www.martygibson.com

Jeweler Sue Lewis describes her artful silver pieces, "One by one each piece has been thoughtfully conceived and tenderly created as a peaceful pause with respect for the sacred in the simple. Creating poetic objects as my response to nature and the human condition is my focus." www.sukilew.com

Sue Lewis' fine jewelry

Mike and Pat Markham ceramics

Mike and Pat Markham are an extraordinary couple as well as superb ceramicists. Rarely will you see work as lovely and masterful as theirs. The Markhams offer functional dishes, vases, vessels, as well as Mike's remarkable sculpture often paired with metal and other materials. The Markhams will be your first stop when you park at Studio No. 12, so be sure to say howdy!

The Bruces hope you will visit, whether or not you intend to purchase. Enjoy coffee, tea or wine with us as you view our new work! Be sure to make the Galloway Wash studios your first stop on the Hidden in the Hills tour!

Toni Perrin Studio, No. 21

2011-11-03T11:03:00.004-07:00

Friday's Wash, oil painting by Toni Perrin

Welcome to Toni Perrin Studio, where you will see a wide variety of artful media and chat with friendly artists!

Fiona Purdy's Coyote Crossing

Fiona Purdy (juried artist) creates colorful, detailed acrylic paintings of animals. Subjects are showcased inside exquisitely designed hand-painted borders. Fiona paints many animal portraits on commission, specializing in horses and dogs.

Stone sculpture
by Gedion Nyonhongo

Gedion Nyonhongo is an internationally known sculptor who works in stone imported from Africa. Gedion's beautifully designed carvings are evocative and spiritual. Pieces range in size from large statements to table top.

Midnight Glow, stone
& antique glass beads

Kathryn Darner is an imaginative jeweler who creates themed pieces. Working mainly with beads and semi-precious stones, Kathryn combines color harmony and lively patterns into wearable art.

Karen Budan (juried artist) is an award-winning pastellist. Karen's work features still-life subject matter in a realistic style. She balances the softness of pastel with the accuracy of drawing.

Marbles II, pastel by Karen Budan

Toni Perrin (juried artist) is a landscape painter who does portraiture and a variety of subjects. Toni's landscape oil paintings are primarily plein air works created on location. Her lyrical style includes painterly brushwork and careful attention to light.

Peaceful River, oil by Toni Perrin

Les and Jaye Lawrence Studio, No. 20

2011-11-02T16:37:00.008-07:00

Les and Jaye Lawrence Studio is located in Carefree and rests at the foot of Black Mountain. The view of this Sonoran desert landmark is beautiful and invites a visit to see the art as well as the scenery. The house was remodeled to create studio space, as well as a display and galley areas. Please say hello to each of the studio artists below….

Lynn Ballinger was fortunate enough to retire from practicing law in 2005 in order to pursue her creative side. She embarked on an intensive course of study to learn wirework and metalsmithing.

“I produce unique pieces that incorporate ancient artifacts, fossilized bone, semi-precious stones and other natural materials into wearable works of art. I rarely have a pre-conceived notion of what I am going to create. I start with a unique piece of bone or an unusual cabochon and let the design take its course. I add or take away elements until I feel that it is just the right balance of form and color. When I am finished, I feel a wonderful sense of serenity and connection to my work, and my clients seem to as well. I feel very fortunate that I have realized my dream and continue to explore new techniques and materials.”

Jeanne Otis taught art at ASU for 30 years and is now retired as Professor Emeritus.

“Color is where I start with new work. It is a continuous dialogue, especially with the quality of color that is unique to ceramic materials. The works evolved from visual ideas I pursued as a painter earlier in my career. Their conception has become more architectural, relying on the interplay of actual and illusory depth of light, shadow and transparency.

My present work using large clay slabs goes back to my roots in color field paintings. I now have the full spectrum of ceramic color which has allowed me to develop ceramic colored pencils and silk screened patterns for the works. I often re-fire work up to 6-8 times. That includes the small tea bowls as well as large scale wall sculpture at 6’ to 10’ feet.”

Les Lawrence took his first clay coursework in the 1960s, received an MFA in Art from ASU and was a Professor of Art at Grossmont College 1970- 2005.

“I have worked in many media but have specialized in ceramic work. My clay work places emphasis on the container forms and has photographic roots in France, as far back as the mid-1800s when vitrified photographs on porcelain were developed and widely used.

I try to capture in the fired work, that moment in the clay when it is soft and malleable. My images are arranged in a narrative and repeated to convey private thoughts that seldom are pointedly direct. I am willing to allow viewers to create their own meanings when viewing this work. I have returned to steel work and sculpture recently.”

Jaye Lawrence received an MFA in Sculpture from ASU in 1974 and spent her early artistic years influenced by the evolving abstract European weaving tradition.

“My work has evolved to a more personal figurative expression often times exploring magic realism. My sculptures are fragmented allusions to both the figure and its environment. The landscape imagery emerges from the body. Fragments of the human figure merge with the linear structure as air, light, and earth.

Southern folk artists whose works are raw and emotion filled, often on the edge also fascinate me. Examples are furniture, animals as well as figurative sculptures made of clay, sticks, roots, etc., put together in very direct ways- nailed, wired, twisted, etc. I prefer to use primitive direct techniques that do not hide the identity of the materials I use.”

Art at Black Mountain Studio, No. 19

2011-10-28T09:51:00.000-07:00

Come and explore nature and art as they come together at Art at Black Mountain Studio. The studio is nestled in two acres of mesquite groves at the base of Black Mountain.

Indulge your senses...
The studio showcases ceramics and paintings, uniquely created for this tour. You'll have the opportunity to meet the artists and discuss their work, see active demos, and watch the natural light dance with their art.

Daphne Azzi (www.daphneazzi.com)

Daphne Azziz ceramics

Daphne’s work emphasizes the impact of nature and ecosystem on our everyday lives through her use of organic colors, textures and shapes. Her work, both ceramic art and functional pottery, underscores the connection we have to the earth and to each other. The use of nature based forms helps her to explore the dichotomy of the endurance and fragility of our environment and mankind. Although that great icon of Nature - the leaf - still figures prominently in her work, much of her new work for 2011 Hidden in the Hills celebrates the Desert and the Mountain areas of Arizona, with color palates and forms that reflect the environment of the Valley and native people , and the textures and shapes of the White Mountain area and its pine forests in North East Arizona.

Joan M. Collins (www.artatblackmountain.com)

Joan Collins mixed media

Joan's acrylic and watercolor work expresses a combination of her passion for travel and her vivid dreams. Her work typically represents a celebration of simple moments in life, often in natural settings and sometimes in figurative forms. Her new work for Hidden in the Hills 2011 has evolved from travel to Alaska, Maui, Kauai, and she has even incorporated findings from the tailings in the La Plata territory of Colorada. She named this series "True Grit" after the original John Wayne movie filmed in the same region. Though painting is her primary medium, she has also completed course work in sculpture of which she has sold one-of-a-kind pieces in bronze and stone.

See more artwork and design your custom tour map at www.hiddeninthehills.org.

Linda Blumel Studo, No. 27

2011-10-27T10:20:00.018-07:00

Stunning ceramics in a stunning Sonoran Desert setting

Once again Linda Blumel Studio will be participating in the annual HITH’s event and she is very pleased to host returning artists Pat Bozek, Marg Nelssen, Sally Watters and Greg Wenz. This group of artists is uniquely talented and accomplished in their mediums. They look forward to the creative buzz that comes from sharing ideas and new work with each other and their guests.

Pat Bozek works in both oil and watercolor.

Pat’s work is in both oils and watercolors and while still maintaining a connection to some of her traditional work she has been having fun incorporating concepts from both media and is excited about the new results.

Sally Watters jewelry

Sally has spent a busy summer collecting new and wonderful “found” objects for her pieces. She always amazes with her unique way of turning a simple discovery into a lovely piece of jewelry.

Whimsical Marg Nelssen

Marg’s work needs to be seen to be believed; it is in a word “spectacular.” Whether a life-sized bull, a mirror comprised of a thousand pieces or her vivid and striking paintings, her work is sure to leave an impression.

Jewelry by Linda Blumel

Linda has incorporated beautiful new stones and designs in her jewelry. Her eye for detail and fine craftsmanship sets the standard for us all.

Greg Wenz ceramics

Greg, our potter, has some wonderful new pieces. As always his vessels are beautiful in their simplicity with glazes that can be rich and subtle or brilliant and colorful. He is bringing a touch of whimsy to this year’s show with his delightful chickens.

Linda’s studio provides a wonderful setting to exhibit our work. We want our guests to feel free to inquire about our processes and methods. A visit is sure to be a creative and artful experience where we look forward to sharing ideas, art work, and perhaps a glass of wine, a cookie and maybe even a laugh or two.

Jeanne Bonine, Studio No. 29

2011-10-25T12:34:00.002-07:00

Jeanne's studio will be dressed up for the holidays this year!

A Head Above the Rest
30" x 15" oil

Romantic Realist Jeanne Bonine is known for her soft and lush larger-than-life floral paintings. And you will surely find flowers galore when you visit her studio.

This year, however, you will see several new features, including an African Gallery and paintings from her recent safari and journey to Naivasha, Kenya.

Jeanne explains, "After doing charity work for Friends of Naivasha who have built a newly needed women's clinic and hospital there, I was invited to join their group for two weeks visiting the hospitals, orphanages and shelters. Please read my story of this very moving journey HERE. I will continue my support by donating 10% of my Hidden in the Hills sales from all my African images to the development of the second wing."

Jeanne with new friends at the hospital.

Jeanne has also turned the cottage into the "Rose Cottage" featuring rose paintings. As she says, "A rose is a rose is a rose, unless it comes from Africa - the rose capital of the world!"

Added to the variety will be many new Sonoran Desert cactus paintings.

To top this off, the entire home and cottage will be adorned in a spirited holiday setting. Jeanne says, "Enough to get you in the mood and as you leave, and each family will receive a gift from my studio."

Within the Sound of Silence
20" x 20" watercolor

More info? www.JeanneBonine.com.

Get a Taste of our Artist Studio Tour

2011-10-24T18:31:00.001-07:00

Take a look at this video of short clips from 17 of our studios last year. You will see the wide variety of mediums and the fun, relaxed atmosphere of the studios. Start planning ~ only one month away!

2011 Directory is Flippin' Awesome!

2011-10-17T16:55:00.002-07:00

It's that time of year again.... You can purchase your own printed copy of the beautiful 2011 Hidden in the Hill Artist Directory by clicking HERE or by calling the Sonoran Arts League at 480.575.6624

OR you can even take a look at it ONLINE! And yes, the pages really do flip!

Tour-goers use the directory to plan their 6 days of artist watching and art viewing. Just imagine trying to visit each of the 45 studios scattered throughout the Desert Foothills! A little planning is essential, people.

So review the directory (most people keep their copy for years and years), then visit our website HERE to make your custom map, print it out, and we'll see you next month!

The Fifteen Anniversary Tour Begins!

2011-09-14T10:09:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to watercolorist Steve Stento, the 2011 Hidden in the Hills directory cover artist! Steve is well known primarily for his Italian landscapes, so this desert floral is something of a departure for him.

He says, "Living in the desert for around twenty years now, I’ve always appreciated how beautiful it can be, especially in the spring when the flowers come out. This lovely scene caught my eye because the lighting was just right. The flower was backlit,making the petals somewhat translucent and providing a dramatic composition with really strong lighting. It was something I knew I would have to paint!"

You can see his work and chat with Steve at Studio No. 16, Virginia Brooks Studio. Visit www.hiddeninthehills.org to make your own custom tour map, and be sure to include No. 16 on your list!

Sampling of HITH 2010 Video

2011-02-10T13:50:00.000-07:00

Enjoy this compilation of video snippets from a multitude of studios, artists and media in our 2010 Artist Studio Tour! See you next year...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5JEDRXBXatg

Hidden in the Hills 2010 Concludes

2010-11-28T15:33:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to the artists, volunteers and attendees of this year's event. You all have helped to make it the highest quality and most successful tour in years!

And this note in from Beth Hyatt-Rapp, author of Inquisitive Bobcat, our directory cover art, and also co-chair of our 2010 Tour. She is happy to report that the original painting sold the first weekend, as well as three out of six Limited Edition giclees.

Now that's the way to end this year's blog! See you next year, and don't forget to seet aside time for your creative pursuits!

Two Days Left, 17 Videos to View!

2010-11-27T10:15:00.001-07:00

Robin Ray of Robin's Nest Studio

Sadly, we don't have studio videos for all our studios on the tour this year, but here are 17 that you will certainly enjoy! All taken in the last week.

Go to our Channel on YouTube for the Sonoran Arts League, or click on individual video links below.

Blue Ridge Studio, No. 44
Karen Norstrom, Judith Vickers, Phil Koerper
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1h3tLSPTA8I

Sylvia Fugmann Brongo, No. 45
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N1YoM-XzDZs

Nancy Michaelson of Red Rope Studio

Linda Budge Studio, No. 15
Linda Budge, Kyle Hobratschk, Garry Sanden
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_m9QcZNJpgs

Cave Creek Glassworks, Marcia Kmack, No. 33
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShQtWvW2Pzw

Cave Creek Woodworks, Gerry Kmack, No. 33
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gDKnTXlk19Q

Cowgirl Designs, No. 5
Karin Johnson, Betsy Glatz, Lisa W. Rogoff, Joyce White, Willie Wilson
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iPxuBijUAOA

Coyote Crossing Studio, No. 13
Dick Mueller, Karen Friend, Jaxine Cummins, Hal Stewart, Alan and Penny Lowy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BDHo55RBD3Y

Katalin Ehling Studio, No. 36
Katalin Ehling, Joan Gould, Morrie Elmer
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZiv4eKE3oM

Lori Greenberg Glass Beads and Jewelry
Lori Greenberg, Melanie Frey, Sal La Rocca, No. 34
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0f95iEPF7jQ

Laughing Glass Studio, No. 40
Carole Perry, Don Carroll, Claudia Robinson
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SBI-0Jz7xAo

Toni Perrin Studio, No. 21
Toni Perrin, Karen Budan, Kathryn Darner, Gedion Nyonhongo, Fiona Purdy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WJGNiO9p_40

Red Rope Studio, No. 17
Nancy Michaelson, Pat Cain, Jossy Lownes, Joel Wolfson, Kay Cummins
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EAzDGvMZIOk

Robin's Nest Studio, No. 42
Robin Ray, Gordon Mischke, Zoe Lani Sayer, Justine Mantor-Waldie, Martha White
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HVy5qATluyc

Robin Ray describes her innovative approach to ceramics
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6RmhT9w77cw

Jerry Sieve Gallery, No. 43
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBPF_WspUSw

Studio on Galloway Wash, No. 12
Judy Bruce, Jim Bruce, Martha Gibson, Sue Lewis, Mike and Pat Markham
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IOdhQ1BrLWk

Valentine Collections, No. 7
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnU2QrHEO_0%20

First Weekend Video Clips

2010-11-25T09:50:00.000-07:00

And a very happy Thanksgiving to everyone from the Sonoran Arts League and the 2010 Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour.

Last weekend, we made some great short videos of 9 different studios and the artwork you can see when you visit. Just click on our new YouTube channel, Sonoran Arts League, to view them.

Who knows? You may see just the perfect holiday gift there! There are another THREE WHOLE DAYS to attend the event ~ design your own custom tour map at http://www.hiddeninthehills.org/!

Cave Creek Glassworks and Woodworks, No. 33

2010-11-20T15:48:00.000-07:00

Marcia and Gerry Kmack are among the most talented and creative couples you are likely to meet. Marcia creates exquisite and whimsical lampwork glass beads (http://www.cavecreekglassworks.com/), and Gerry is perfecting new techniques for custom furniture and everyday household objects that just happen to be art. Take a look at these brief videos taken at their studios during the tour today!

Carefree Gourd Gallery, Studio 22

2010-11-19T16:05:00.000-07:00

Fine gourd artist Ceil Goslin welcomes you to her home and studio

Gil Gustavsen and Cheryl Stapleton offer
fine art photography.

Six talented individuals are showcasing their art at the Carefree Gourd Gallery this year, all familiar faces on tour.

This year, the team at Gustavsen-Stapleton Studios brings their photography of ancient American dwellings and art into the mix. Their efforts to document and thus preserve Native American architecture has garnered much publicity this year, reported in the Arizona Republic plus other local press and more recently in locally published but nationally distributed True West Magazine.

From the photo series of
Native American treasures

It’s the fifth year on the tour for award-winning photographers Gil and Cheryl, and the only opportunity to personally view their art this art season. Their art is available on-line at gustavsen-stapleton.com. Read more about Gustavesen-Stapleton at these 2010 resources: AZCentral, True West Magazine and Sonoran News

Ceil Goslin's imaginative gourd art

In her studio, host Ceil Goslin creates luminous gourd sculptures that are enhanced with layers of metals, enamels and hand-carving techniques. Her inspiration comes from various sources including her own garden. Ceil also makes functional art by using gourds to make purses! She has her virtual gallery at carefreegourdgallery.com.

Corinne McAuley creating bead tapestries

Boots by Corinne McAuley

In the garden area, Corinne McAuley will be showing her distinctive bead tapestries. Each tapestry is composed of thousands of hand-stitched translucent and opalescent Japanese glass beads. Point your browser to corinnemcauleyfineart.com to view Corinne’s artwork online.

Wildlife watercolorist Pamela Mangelsdorf will be exhibiting her art on the back patio. She creates richly colored paintings of animals she has photographed. Pamela also accepts pet commissions and paints traditional still lifes. On-line, pamelamangelsdorf.com provides a sampling of her paintings.

Bobcat by Pamela Mangelsdorf

Oil painter Kathleen Newby is once again joining Pamela on the patio. Kathleen focuses primarily on still lifes composed of fruits and flowers, but is not limited to such subject matter. Primarily exhibited in galleries, this is the only chance to purchase her work directly.

Oil painter Kathleen Newby

Copper and Apples by Kathleen Newby

Studio 22 is located at 36402 Sidewinder Road in Carefree. While in the neighborhood, visit the artists at Toni Perrin Studio and Tree Loft Studio (studios 21 and 23).

Painted Hills Studio, No. 9

2010-11-18T14:59:00.001-07:00

Inspiring sculpture by Jim Kropp

Studio Nine is opening its doors to fun, food and hands-on art printmaking for our visitors!

Jewelry by Jim Kropp greets guests at the door, with gleaming professional polish as well as original sculpture. www.Mnartists.org/James_Kropp

Then guests will be swept away with art to the left, the right, ahead and around the corner. Enjoy the oils, watercolors, mixed media, etchings, drypoint and monoprints by Carole Matthews, Marjorie Rogers and Joan Milman.

Original jewelry by Jim Kropp

Joan Milman artwork

A swoosh of color from Joan Milman

Joan's subject matter can range from a watercolor of dripping pipes, to an acrylic landscape containing vintage autos in the desert, to stylized women in mixed media. I delight in the use of unusual textures and vivid colors. Ideally I would like to attract the viewer's eye and engage them in thought. Also, watch (no pun intended) for Joan's “Time of Your Life” jewelry crafted from the inner workings of watches and timepieces. http://www.joanmilman.com/

Artwork by Carole Matthews

Carole (http://www.carolematthewsart.com/) is noted for her deliciously colorful abstracts full of movement. She works in watercolor and acrylic and offers her fair share of mixed media pieces.

Marjorie Rogers artwork

Quail by Marjorie Rogers

Marjorie Rogers is a master printmaker, whose work will charm and delight the guests. For the young and attitude-gifted young, mono-print demonstrations on the press will be offered. Young and once-young guests are encouraged to try their hand at creating original art.

A delectable spread under the trees is offered to the browsers. Linger and love the moment!

Artwork by Carole Matthews

Sylvia Fugmann Brongo Studio, No. 45

2010-11-17T12:23:00.000-07:00

Sylvia Brongo working on one of her fabulous ceramic pieces.

Airbrushed ceramic vessel

Sylvia Fugmann Brongo has been an artist since 1983. A transplant from upstate New York, she is known for her colorfully airbrushed ceramic vessels, wall pieces and bowls. Each piece is individually hand formed in stoneware clay. She uses equipment such as a slab roller to create sheets of clay which are then cut with patterns. Two halves with a bottom are put together to create a vessel, while other slabs are draped over forms to create open bowl or platter shapes, as seen below. Before this assembly, textures are carved, pierced and stippled onto the surface creating unique textures.

"My pieces are influenced by my environment, and the beauty of nature. Living in Cave Creek, Arizona has surrounded me with the beauty of textures, colors, and unique forms. My works are contemporary, and desert inspired, celebrating these influences."

Sonoran Diva jewelry line

Sylvia also creates a line of porcelain jewelry called "Sonoran Diva." In addition to using popular heart and floral motifs, she also creates cactus and landscape inspired images to make earrings and necklaces. "I carve these designs into plaster of paris, and replicate them using liquid porcelain, called: slip." Additional hand carving and glaze painting enhances the pieces, that also incorporate sterling silver, glass beads, and semi precious stones, such as amethyst and pearls.

Acrylic painting

Acrylic painting is another passion, though she has found little time to explore it these days. But the same statements of textures, color and forms are used in two dimensional expression. Just like the ceramic works, she uses an airbrush to apply delicate layers of color. There are several applications of these layers to create a smooth and dimensional effects. A fine liner brush is used to capture more details, and invite the viewer for not only distant, but close viewing appreciation.

Sylvia is also the coordinator for "Black Mountain Studios." A close-knit group of four participating studios are offering 7 door prizes to those patrons who visit all four studios. Free hand made ceramic art, jewelry, as well as dinner gift certificates are some of the prizes offered. Studios 42, 43, 44, 45 are located within a block of Cave Creek Road, Surrey Dr. and Blue Ridge Drive.

Airbrushed ceramic vessel

New ceramic artwork

There are tools of the trade that are valuable in helping to create art. Just as a torch guides solder for a jeweler, or a lathe turns a wooden bowl, some of the tools can be hazardous, if not flat out dangerous. While creating clay bowls this summer that she donates to the "Empty Bowls" project, she caught her right thumb in the slab roller, crushing it. "It was a severe injury, and I am hoping for a full recovery. I am very, very fortunate to still have my thumb, which is the ultimate art making tool, especially in forming clay. I am grateful to others, such as member, Patty Russell, who have helped me to prepare and finish my works so that I would be able to participate in this years Hidden in the Hills Studio Art Tour."

Sylvia welcomes you to her home!

This is Sylvia's 6th tour. She can be found at studio #45 where she creates all of her works from her home studio.

Linda Blumel Studio, No. 27

2010-11-16T19:22:00.000-07:00

Linda Blumel's unusual jewelry

The artists at “Linda Blumel Studio” are looking forward to meeting you and sharing their work and techniques during this year’s HITH. There are five artists on site, all with very different styles and approaches to their work.
The host artist Linda Blumel is a jeweler who works with sterling silver, 18-karat gold and unusual and unique stones. Most pieces are designed around the stones with metalwork used to support and enhance them. She strives for balance and loves to combine colors and textures.

Abstract by Pat Bozek

Pat Bozek is a painter with a broad and diverse body of work. Painting in oils and watercolor affords her the opportunity to present many subject matters including still lifes, florals and abstracts. She loves to break with tradition and is constantly looking for new means of expression.

Marg Nelssen's unique
mixedmedia pieces

Marg Nelssen’s artistry has no boundaries-her unique mosaic pieces incorporate a dense composition of various metals with international art, spiritual treasures, southwestern icons and other mixed media components. Often inspired by a walk around her ranch her vibrant paintings featuring horses, mules, and dogs have a special sonoran desert flavor.

Sally Watters' found object jewelry

Sally Watters creates unique jewelry using beach glass and found objects from the remote shores of Upper Michigan. She uses varied metal smithing techniques in designing and fabricating her jewelry and the final piece is one of a kind having an organic and natural look to it. She carries over the use of found objects into functional art, namely vases and driftwood and metal mirrors.

Vibrant plant forms by Greg Wenz

And last but in no way least Linda’s studio is welcoming back Greg Wenz and his wonderful pottery. His vibrant plant forms add a touch of color and whimsy to any yard. Both rich and delicate hues make for a lovely collection of functional pieces. His vessels incorporate beautiful texture and form.

Linda’s Studio is in a delightful desert setting and with a laid back attitude and plenty of good laughs this group not only enjoys each others company but also looks forward to yours. Visit for the amazing art, a little insight and a good time.

2010-11-15T15:28:00.000-07:00

Sue Lewis, Judy Bruce, Jim Bruce, (Winnie, a muse for Jim’s work),
Pat Markham, Marty Gibson and Mike Markham.

Judy Bruce in her studio

STUDIO 12 is one of the most contemporary, eclectic studios on the tour. All six juried artists are creative, professional, highly experienced, and take great pride in their craftsmanship. This is one studio you will not want to miss!!!

Jim Bruce and dogs (all kinds)

Jim Bruce has created 14 new and exciting sculptures with unique personalities. These creatures (NOT all dogs this year!) will make you smile. His menagerie will be outside in the yard. http://www.jimbruceart.com/

Mixed media by Judy Bruce

Judy Bruce has created many more pieces in her "Fractured Series" which are now framed in the master carpenter's beautiful box frames. There are other new paintings and a new "Flower" series! Be sure to see Judy’s wonderful studio above the back garage.http://www.judybruceart.com/

Red Moon Rising by Marty Gibson

Marty Gibson working large.

Marty Gibson will have a series of monotypes from her “Lunatic” series in addition to several new contemporary paintings and small fine art books that many enjoyed last year. Marty will be in her usual spot on the front porch. www.myartspace.com/martygibson

Jeweler Sue Lewis

Bracelets from Sue Lewis

Sue Lewis will once again exhibit her artful silver neckpieces, pins, bracelets, and earrings. Each piece is one of a kind, lovingly cut, filed, soldered and constructed out of silver sheet and wire, sometimes embellished with 14K gold, semi-precious stones and pearls. There are also beautiful cloisonné enameled pieces available. Sue will be with Judy in the upstairs studio. http://www.sukilew.com/

Functional and decorative pottery
by Pat and Mike Markham.

The Markhams, Pat the potter, and Mike the sculptor, are new to our studio this year. They will have both functional and decorative pottery as well as standing and wall sculpture that combine clay, wood, metal, acrylic, and/or glass. The Markham’s will be in the front garage.
Our stop is one of the most visited studios on tour so come by and see us this year, have a chat with our artists, see examples of quality contemporary work and have a sweet treat.

Red Rope Studio, No. 17

2010-11-13T18:24:00.005-07:00

“Award winning”... “internationally published”... “nationally acclaimed”...

Nancy Michaelson in her studio

Imaginative artwork by Nancy Michaelson

This only begins to describe the 5 five artists you can meet and whose art will delight your senses at Red Rope Studio (# 17) during Hidden In The Hills. If you’ve been on the tour before, you will recognize the paintings of cover artists Jossy Lownes, Nancy Michaelson, and Pat Cain. Adding to the mix are the images of internationally published photographer Joel Wolfson and the creative jewelry of our newest artist Kay Cummins.

Pat Cain at work

On the cusp of Cave Creek and Carefree is the beautiful home and studio of acrylic artist Nancy Michaelson. A former art teacher, Nancy has exhibited in many state, national and international competitions in which she has been awarded many prizes. Her work is recognized as thoughtful, unique and highly skilled.. This 2006 HITH cover artist says she "enjoys the paint and the process of telling about the landscape and life with color, texture and composition." http://www.redropestudio.com/

Pat Cain acrylic

Pat Cain has work in numerous private and public collections, including most recently two paintings purchased for the new Hotel Setai in NYC. She looks forward to sharing her art and conversation with you at Red Rope Studio during HITH this year. http://www.patcainart.com/.

Oil by Jossy Lownes

Artist Jossy Lownes

2007 HITH cover artist Jossy Lownes chooses to paint from her imagination with a variety of tools, including her gloved fingers. In addition to colorful, energetic landscapes, Lownes enjoys painting figures and the relationships between people. Whether painting with herfingers, no brushes, making marks with odds and ends, or using collage, Jossy is happiest when creating her colorful, and sometimes emotional, works of art." http://www.jossylownes.com/.

Photographer Joel Wolfson

Fine art photographer Joel Wolfson is published internationally and his roster of notable clients include Newsweek, Elle, Seventeen, Houghton Mifflin, Family Circle. Visit Joel's web site to see his Southwestern and Worldwide images: http://www.joelwolfson.com/.

Fine art photo by Joel Wolfson

Jeweler Kay Cummins

Kay Cummins is an emerging jewelry artist that works in Sterling and Fine Silver, Copper & Brass. These metals are combined with enamel, found objects and wordplay. This is her first year showing at some of Arizona’s largest juried art shows. People describe her work as clever, playful and unique. Come see for yourself. She will be demonstrating torch enameling, applying texture and many other traditional metalsmithing techniques. Do you have a memento that you treasure? Kay can work it into a custom piece for you. http://www.outandaboutgirls.com/

Arizona Girl Pendant by Kay Cummins

This relaxed and fun group of artists will enchant you with their art at a charming studio in a beautiful setting- all in a convenient location.

Katalin Ehling Studio, No. 36

2010-11-12T18:02:00.001-07:00

Batik artist Katalin Ehling demonstrates her techniques.

Santa Fe Spring, batik on cotton

A 34-year resident of Cave Creek, artist Katalin Ehling is celebrating her 14th year of participation in the Tour. She is one of the original organizers of the event and has seen it grow by leaps and bounds into something magnificent. STUDIO 36 is unique since it is the only one that offers original batiks.Katalin has been batiking since 1970, immediately becoming the best known batik artist in the Southwest. Over the last few decades, she had dozens of successful one woman exhibitions in such locations as Scottsdale, Sedona, Taos, Santa Fe, Denver, Vail, Aspen, Santa Barbara, Palm Springs, Jackson Hole, Austin and Houston. In 1987, she was featured artist at the Budapest Galeria in Hungary.

Whirlwind, batik on paper

She is a world traveler and lets each country inspire her, be it France or Italy, Japan or China, Java or Bali. The resulting batiks from these travels can be viewed on http://www.katalinehling.com/. Katalin still focuses on her traditional batiks on pure Javanese cotton as her main medium but has expanded this past year into abstract themes with her batiks on paper. Also new this year are her encaustic batiks and a series of abstract acrylics on canvas.

Morrie Elmer, wood sculpture

For the past ten years, woodturner Morrie Elmer has been Katalin's guest artist. He is a master at his craft, turning exotic woods into unusually shaped vessels and embellishing them with subtle touches of turquoise, coral and other natural stones.

Wood vessel with turquoise inlay by Morrie Elmer

22K Gold Heart Pendant by Joan Gould

And brand new guest artist Joan Gould will be showing her fine gold and silver jewelry at Katalin’s studio. Joan's creative spirit finds home in the beautiful Sonoran desert and the San Francisco Peaks of Arizona. Her hand-crafted gold and silver fine jewelry reflects her love of color and texture found in the highly diverse natural surroundings here. She relishes this "unusual creativity" that leads her to produce exquisite wearable art. Her artwork is truly one-of-a-kind, her skills honed from years of experience in the art world, and her process unique for creating silver and gold jewelry. http://www.jgoulddesigns.com/.

Unique bracelet by Joan Gould

Silver and gold jeweler Joan Gould

All three are Juried Artists of the Sonoran Arts League and eagerly answer questions about their art via helpful visual aids.

A visit to STUDIO 36 is always a treat. There are always refreshments and a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.

Coyote Crossing Studio, Studio # 13

2010-11-11T18:17:00.001-07:00

Coyote Crossing Studio in Cave Creek ~ really hidden in the hills!

Mountain Man by Dick Mueller

Pencil artist Dick Mueller

Coyote Crossing Studio sits on a hill in Cave Creek and is home to abundant wildlife: the namesake coyotes, deer, javelina, bobcats and an assortment of birds, reptiles and rodents. Most of these creatures find their way into Dick’s art.

Dick Mueller, graphite & colored pencil artist and studio host says, ”As the song says, ‘My heroes have always been cowboys.' Growing up with Roy Rogers, Gene Autry, and Hopalong laid the foundation for my love of and curiosity about the dress, faces, and activities of the west of the late 1800s and early 1900s. Using photographs (old and new) for inspiration, I try to paint a feeling and/or action with pencils. Working in a very representational style, my intent is to give the viewer a sense of nostalgia, curiosity, humor, peaceful reflection and inspiration.” In May 2010, Dick was awarded first place in the drawing category at the Phippen Western Art Show in Prescott, AZ. www.coyotecrossingstudio.com

Bronze sculptor Hal Stewart

Bronze by Hal Stewart

Bronze sculptor Hal Stewart is a construction worker turned artist! He worked in the construction Industry for many years before starting to sculpt in 2000. Hal sculpts Native American Indians, cattle, horses, wolves, sea turtles, and many other subjects. He was chosen by the Grand Canyon to be the Artist-in-Residence for summer 2005. Hal will be displaying many of his bronzes including birds, Indians, horses and cowboys. Working in oil-based clay, he will be sculpting his newest creation, a cowboy with his horse running with a group of stampeding cattle. A new sculpture “Friends Sharing” will have its premier debut during this show. www.HalStewartBronze.com

Acrylic by Jaxine Cummins

Acrylic painter Jaxine Cummins

Acrylic painter Jaxine Cummins considers herself a native Arizonan; she graduated from Tempe High School, raised two sons and attended night school at Glendale College, starting an art career at the young age of 50. Jaxine says "art" and a couple of great teachers changed her life for the better (a new way to see). Jaxine loves exploring life through the eyes of an artist. An eclectic artist, she uses almost all of the media, and lets her imagination run wild. Jaxine is known for her exciting colors and her enthusiasm. She also likes getting new artists excited enough to explore. This came out when she taught the boys at Arizona Department of Corrections facility at Buckeye, the most exciting job she ever had. www.jaxine.com

Hand-colored B&W photograph

Photographers Alan and Penny Lowy

Husband and wife photographers Alan and Penny Lowy will be demonstrating their hand-coloring B&W photographs techniques using colored pencils. Alan teaches photography at PVCC Community College and also at the Scottsdale Artist School. Stop by to meet and talk with them and the other artist displaying & selling their works at Dick Mueller’s Coyote Crossing Studio #13 on the Hidden in the Hills art tour. www.cavecreek-photo.com

Gourd artist Karen Friend

Karen Friend gourd art

Fine gourd artist Karen Friend says, “One of the things I like about working with gourds is that each gourd has its own personality." When the design process begins, Karen creates a pencil sketch on the gourd. She then brings her design into sharper focus with burning and carving tools. For color, Karen utilizes a broad palette of shoe dyes, inks, acrylics, oils, watercolors and colored pencils. For texture: beadwork, precious stone inlay, metal conchos, seeds and natural objects such as antlers and gnarled wood locally harvested on her properties in the desert and in the mountains are used to embellish and enhance the basic gourd design. www.soaringspiritstudio.com

Blue Ridge Studio, No. 44

2010-11-10T12:44:00.000-07:00

Blue Ridge Studio and Karen Norstrom's jewelry playground

Karen Norstrom's one-of-a-kind jewelry

The Blue Ridge Studio, designed and built for "Kreations by Karen," sits on the side of Black Mountain near the old mining town of Cave Creek.

Karen Norstrom has been designing unique one of a kind jewelry for over 10 years. She has developed her skills by taking many classes and has received several awards for her work. She developed a love for dichroic glass and has been creating jewelry using the glass as well as precious stones and various metals. This will be Karen’s third year participating in the Hidden in the Hills studio tour. www.kreationsbykaren.biz

Karen will be joined by the following guest artists during the tour:

Phil Koerper loves the Southwest

Phil Koerper (www.koerpergallery.com) is our Plein Air & Landscape painter. His love of the southwest resignates in paintings of its deserts, mountains and lakes. He enjoys talking about our beautiful state and even has maps to show interested people where to find some of the wonderful scenes he paints.

Judith Visker's vibrant acrylics

Judith Visker (www.viskerart.com) paints with acrylics but often chooses mixed media to express her vibrant, independent spirit.

Have fun visiting Studio 44 in the foothills of Black Mountain! We look forward to seeing you!

David Wheeler Sculptured Glass, Studio #14

2010-11-09T15:33:00.002-07:00

David Wheeler's Sculptured Glass

My studio is truly a desert studio. The road leading in is gravel going through horse country, cactus, rocks, sand and between mountains. The drive into the studio descends onto three plateaus of more cactus and more sand and rocks. On the bottom level suddenly appears my studio which is a quite large tent pole structure next to a smaller tent pole gallery. This is on a cement pad that is enhanced with bookcase displays, pedestal displays and large work tables. It is a working studio of warm glass sculpture using kilns, grinding, flamework. You can follow the process of cutting the glass, firing, the use of molds for slumping, use of ground glass for glass painting. In the gallery there are featured pieces of completed glass sculpture for view and for sale. Commission work is also taken.

My featured work is comprised of small bowls that are intricately constructed of glass trellis and arranged bubble patterns. There are medium size bowls, more functional bowls and display glass. My summary of the work is Glass Alchemy. The mysterious morph of glass to art. There will be a munchie or two as you peruse the grounds. I do some collaboration with Paul Diefenderfer, the metal worker, who is just north of my studio (at No. 10 on the map).

Learn more about my work at www.davidwheelersculpturedglass.com.

Cowgirl Designs Studio, No. 5

2010-11-06T10:24:00.002-07:00

Karin Johnson photography

Enjoy your visit at Cowgirl Designs this year! We are excited to be hosting 5 remarkable artists and offer a variety of art. We will have live music on both Sundays with wine & cheese for your enjoyment. A gift basket will be raffled that will include a gift from each artist and other goodies. Cowgirl Designs is proud to support Horse Rescue and donates a percent of all their proceeds to help save horses from slaughter.

Our Guest Artists include:

Carved gourd by Willie Wilson

Willie Wilson: Winner of the "People's Choice Award" and "Judges Choice Award" at the Wurtz Gourd Farm Festival in 2010 and after 30+ years in the design industry, Willie brings a fresh new creativity with her carved and filigre gourds. Willie is also a juried member of the Arizona Arts Alliance.

Karin Johnson: A cowgirl at heart, Karin loves the outdoors and exploring new territory on horseback. Photographing the western lifestyle including ranch work, cowboys (& girls), horses and the Sonoran Desert she creates her finished designs through the use of digital application. She specializes in photographing your horse! Her art is displayed on cards, giclee prints, posters and more. www.cowgirldesigns.com

Betsy Glatz glass art

Betsy Glatz: Betsy has been active in the art & design communities in Cave Creek and Chicago for over 35 years. Her focus is large format acrylic abstract paintings and glass wallscapes which are inspired by bright colors and movement. As a juried artist with Sonoran Arts League, she has participated in many local shows. The new Balancing Rock Studio/Gallery will be opening January 2011 in Cave Creek

Joyce White fine art jewelry

Joyce White: "Let Me Express Your Imagination!" Joyce designs and manufactures fine art jewelry for collectors all over the United States. Joyce is founder of a non profit organization”Hope For Women Arts” which delivers workshops to Jewel McFarland Lewis Women Center and other Shelters for the homeless and abused women and children. Joyce is also the 2010 Spring Arizona Art Alliance First Place Winner. She is also a juried member of Arizona Art Alliance and Arizona Artist Guild. www.joycewhiteafricanjewelry.com

Lisa Rogoff one-of-a-kind handbags

Lisa Rogoff: Mrs. Rogue's Ranchwear, custom-crafted, collectible handbags begin with an authentic cowboy boot. Inspired by new, vintage and customer provided boots, each creation reflects the rustic beauty of the Southwest. Rugged enhancements represent mountain formations, with jewelry-quality chains of semi-precious stones, crystal, bone, Native American hair pipe beads, wood, sterling and antique silver.

Every one-of-a-kind purse is designed and crafted by artist Lisa W. Rogoff; her originals had been spotted in Amsterdam, Madrid, Barcelona and Paris. Presently, she customs designs for The Lucchese Boot Company in San Antonio and Santa Fe. Her pieces have been shown at the Barrett Jackson Car Auction, Gammage Auditorium and are available at an exclusive assortment of retailers in Arizona.

www.mrsroguesranchwear.com

We look foward to seeing you at No. 5!

Mountain Studio, No. 3

2010-11-04T11:02:00.001-07:00

Roger Kull, sculpted leather

Mountain Studio is home and studio to nationally recognized artists Roger Kull and his wife, Judith Durr. This charming structure sits at the heart of Cave Creek and will give you a taste for the rolling hills and scenic views of the Desert Foothills.

Oils paintings by Judith Durr

Roger is known for his Fine Art Sculpted Leather pictures and Judith is known for her Native American oil paintings.

Mixed media by Sara Lawless

Mountain is warm and welcoming to all visitors. Offering an upstairs and downstairs tour of the native and western art collection that inspires art style. The open studio offers casual lectures and demonstrations, as time allows. There is also a garden tour. Beverages and snacks are offered to all visitors.

Oil by Sharon Brening

Mountain Studio offers a diverse and interesting mix of artists. three of the five artists have artwork in permanent museum collections and are nationally and internationally recognized. Our artists are: Bonnie Beyers-jewelry, Sharon Brening-oils, Judith Durr-oils, Roger Kull-leather, and Sara Lawless-mixed media.

Jewelry by Bonnie Beyer

Join us for two full wonderful weekends of fine art and education.

Leeds/Fidel Studio, No. 26

2010-11-03T17:16:00.002-07:00

Karen Leeds

Karen Leeds and Bela Fidel (Studio #26) are excited to participate in the Hidden in the Hills Studio Art Tour for yet another year. Their combined studios specialize in contemporary, abstract paintings and original small gifts. It is easy to access from major streets but it is also tucked away in an inviting desert setting perfect for this show.

Bela Fidel

“We really enjoy opening up our doors to the public for this unique event”, says Leeds. Both artists are well known locally, with works hanging in prominent public venues in the valley. Karen works in acrylic, oil pastel, and also in lush, one-of-a-kind silk paintings and scarves.

Bela creates elegant abstractions in oils, as well as striking compositions in encaustics (hot wax), a technique dating back thousands of years.

Jane Nassano

Joan Waters

We are very pleased to host two guest artists this year who are new to our studio but certainly not new to the tour. Jane Nassano is a master pastel artist whose large florals, exquisite nudes, and lush landscapes convey her own rich vision of the world as she sees it.

Joan Waters exhibits welded steel sculptures with colored patinas. Joan has traded her X-acto knife for a 10,000-degree plasma cutter, her eraser for an angle grinder, and her pencil for a mig-welder, to create organic forms from the industrial material. Joan’s current public art project is two bus stations, at Arizona Avenue and Chandler Blvd., to be completed this fall.”

A visit to Studio #26 promises to be an exciting stop on the tour with informative demonstrations covering seven mediums, impressive galleries, original small treasures for holiday gift giving, and plenty of fun and refreshments for all!

A Sampling of 2009 HITH Pictures

2010-11-02T12:05:00.001-07:00

See artists working. Ask questions. Learn more about art. See fabulous artwork in every medium. Purchase the art directly from the artists themselves! An amazing outing for friends and family in for Thanksgiving!

2010-10-31T12:11:00.001-07:00

Linda Budge with studio dogs Harry and Martha. Right, the studio interior.

The Linda Budge Studio in Cave Creek is hosting a fascinating, unique venue of art this year. Exhibitors include the wonderfully talented Kyle Hobratschk, who works in watercolor, printmaking and pen & ink. Kyle just about does it all. You’ll want to come meet this young man and watch his development as an artist over the years. See more at http://kylesfineart.com.

Garry Sanden is a former president of the Sonoran Arts League and a gifted ceramicist, as well as an acrylic painter. Garry says, “I am drawn to and work primarily with porcelain for the intensity to line, color and purity to form it provides to my pieces. Porcelain is expressive in nature and I love the feeling of the earth’s memory as it comes alive in my hands.” Find Garry’s Artist Page on Facebook at “Garry Sanden Ceramic/Mixed Media.”

And of course, there is the inimitable Linda Budge, an oil painter of wildlife, especially that of the Sonoran Desert. Her subjects usually have 4 legs, a variety of ears, noses and tails. “Sometimes they can be found creeping through the desert, peering at you through the mesquite trees, or just standing in somebody's back yard. I try to capture their look, their expression and their attitude in oil paintings.” www.lindabudge.com

A visit to Linda’s studio means some artsy conversation in a very relaxed beautiful setting. The artists will all be doing some demo work and would love to answer your questions.

Hot Off the Press! Great Video on the Tour!

2010-10-30T08:55:00.001-07:00

Many, many thanks to Key Magazine for providing the Tour this opportunity to tell everyone about our Hidden in the Hills event! And kudos to long-time HITH participant Beth Zink for her new film career - she's terrific in the video and her art is wonderful as the backdrop.

Hidden In The Hills Artist Studio Tour by Sonoran Arts League from Sue Malthaner on Vimeo.

Christoph's Ceramics, Studio No. 30

2010-10-29T18:39:00.001-07:00

Artist Chris Heede has one of the most interesting studios on the tour, besides the wonderful ceramics and glass artistry you'll find inside. He says:

"My studio was designed by William Bruder in 1983. I built it myself while living in a teepee. The shell of the house took a year to complete, the inside another year. The construction is sandblasted cinder block and wood framing, covered by galvanized steel. It’s earth bermed on two sides, and has beautiful views of the desert, and is very energy efficient."

Please enjoy this video on Chris' custom ceramic home furnishings made by HGTV!

Check out Chris' brand new web site for more information on his work and great pictures of his studio! www.christophceramics.com.

Directory Cover a First!

2010-10-20T15:24:00.001-07:00

Congratulations to Beth Hyatt-Rapp, painter of the beautiful bobcat gracing this year's cover of the Artist Directory. It is very fitting that the Hidden in the Hills event boasts a wild and beautiful animal; the Sonoran Desert here is very beautiful and, as most of its residents can attest, at times pretty wild.

It's that time of year to scope out our wild and beautiful artists and plan your tour. Go to HiddenintheHills.org to plan your custom tour online or you can even look at the directory online. We can assure you, however, the 2010 directory is a keeper ~ you will want to purchase one to keep!

Next week you'll start receiving posts describing individual studios and their artists. This year's event is going to be a real treat (no tricks)!