Tempe Artists Guild (TAG) will host The Art of Us (TAOU) exhibition, celebrating the local art community with a three-day juried event and two important public programs at the historic Hackett House in downtown Tempe on January 30, 31, and February 1, 2026. The exhibition is open to all artists aged 18 and older who reside in the metro Phoenix area and will showcase approximately 100 visual artworks that reflect a wide range of perspectives, skill levels, and media. By eliminating the entry fee, TAG aims to make participation accessible to students, first-time exhibitors, and underrepresented voices.
Two main events will frame the exhibition.The Opening Reception and Awards Celebration on January 30 at 5 PM will honor 30 exhibitors with awards for excellence. Art and Music Through a Creative Lens, occurring on February 1 at 3 PM, will feature the Central Arizona Flute Ensemble (CAFE), a seven-member flute choir known for its engaging and accessible concerts.
CAFE will perform musical interpretations of selected artworks, while Dr. Julie Codell, an art historian from Arizona State University, will lead a discussion examining the connections between visual and musical storytelling, encouraging audience engagement and reflection.
TAOU awardees will receive a complimentary TAG membership, which includes an invitation to participate in the June 2026 Individual Mentor Consultations at the Clark Park Community Center. This program will pair up to 60 amateur artists with professional mentors for 25-minute one-on-one feedback sessions focusing on technique, creative direction, and portfolio development.
“We are thrilled to receive a generous grant from the City of Tempe – Community Arts to support this exciting program,” says TAG President Marie Provine. “It is a fantastic opportunity to share the joy of creating art by, for, and about our community.” This project is partially funded by a City of Tempe – Community Arts Grant.
Featured art in Art and Music Through a Creative Lens
Sand in my Toes by Russ Anderson
Sitting in a Field of Sunflowers by Gail McFarland
Librarian in Bohemia by David Henderson
Volkswagen, by Bruce Bouldin
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