Exciting Opportunity for Students: Join the Hidden in the Hills Studio 1 Showcase!

Judy Bruce

Local young artists will highlight their creative talents as part of the upcoming Youth Art showcase at Studio 1, a long-standing feature of Hidden In The Hills for 25 years. This event will take place over a six-day period at The Sonoran Arts League Studio in Stagecoach Village. Students from 6th grade to college, specializing in painting, sculpture, and mixed media, will exhibit and sell their artwork. This initiative provides a vital platform for these budding artists to immerse themselves in the artistic community.

Despite common misconceptions about the viability of a career in the arts, data suggests otherwise. Jerry Cianciolo, chief editor at Emerson and Church, Publishers, points to findings from the Strategic National Arts Alumni Project, indicating that 92% of 13,500 arts graduates seeking employment found jobs after graduation. Of those, 66% reported their first jobs aligned with their artistic ambitions. Encouragingly, 70% of arts professionals expressed contentment with their careers, even amidst challenges like low pay.

This contrasts sharply with findings from Gallup, which revealed that 70% of American workers feel disengaged from their jobs. This disconnection has notably intensified post-COVID-19. In stark contrast, the majority of artists report a strong affection for their work, underscoring the importance of job satisfaction in overall happiness.

Encouraging youth to pursue their artistic passions fosters fulfillment and joy. Many student artists are already paving the way for promising careers, and further support from the community will only enhance their journeys. Viewers are invited to visit Studio 1 during Hidden in the Hills to witness the vibrant display of young talent.

Young artists interested in participating can apply online at www.sonoranartsleague.org or contact Crystal White at the League Studio. Although an information session occurred on September 11, recorded materials are still available for interested applicants. Additionally, a mandatory class, “Doing Business at Hidden in the Hills,” will be offered both in person and via ZOOM in the future.

Moreover, the Studio will showcase work from League instructors until October 20. This exhibition includes pieces by notable watercolorists John Erwin and Mona Houle, as well as oils from Heather Coen and Kathleen Eaton, among others.

The Studio will also host a community event dubbed “A Little Pumpkin Affair” during the Taste of Cave Creek. Participants can decorate pumpkins, vying for a gift certificate for a free workshop. While there is no fee for participation, donations are welcomed.

Finally, an exhibition previewing the Hidden in the Hills Studio Tour will be on display at the Desert Foothills Library Gallery from October 3 to January 8.

Photos from the 2023 Hidden in the Hills Studio 1 (youth exhibition) will be available for viewing, highlighting the extraordinary creativity flourishing within the community.