What do you get when you invite hundreds of extraordinary artists to create new unsigned works within a 12-inch space, and exhibit everything in support Sedona’s hometown cultural organization? Sedona Arts Center has the answer in its second annual 12×12 Mystery Art Project and Fundraiser, scheduled for Friday, June 10 in the historic Art Barn. And the public is invited to unlock the creative mysteries.
The 12 x 12 Project invites artists and visual communicators from all over to create and donate a 12 by 12 inch work, which will be shown and offered at the event for $250—with proceeds going to support Sedona Arts Center’s programs and operations. Art lovers will find painting, photography, fiber, ceramic, and even sculptural works. What they won’t find is the artist’s signature—keeping an air of mystery for those in attendance.
“This event is a fun way to support our valuable arts education programs and community arts outreach projects,” said Debbie Winslow, the Arts Center’s Operations manager. “As far as fundraisers go, it is the opposite of boring—made possible by and filled with wonderful creative people who care about our mission and our role in the community.”
Added this year is an Artist’s Salon in the Art Barn Theatre, where attendees and art buyers can meet the artists, and view or buy their larger works. The artists will also be available to sign the 12 x 12 works, once the mystery has been revealed. To extend the Artist’s Salon, the exhibition will be open to the public throughout the 12×12 weekend.
“Besides supporting our nonprofit organization, this project really is about promoting great artists and connecting them with the community,” said Winslow. “The format challenged them to communicate visually in a new way, and results in wonderful one foot square visual statements.”
The 12 x 12 event is free and open to all. For those who would like to view and buy art prior to the 6:30pm event opening, the Arts Center is planning a special preview reception at 5:30pm. Preview tickets can be purchased for $50, and proceeds support the Arts Center as well.
Sedona Arts Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the creative life of Sedona. Ongoing programming includes a Fine Art Gallery that exhibits the work of over 100 local artists, over 200 arts education activities and workshops throughout the year, cultural celebrations and festivals, and creative community partnerships. For more information or preview tickets for the 12 x 12 event, or to view a complete list of participating artists, contact Sedona Arts Center at (928) 282-3809 or visit SedonaArtsCenter.org.
