Schaefers Pledges $110,000 to Transform Roundabout Art

Rob and Alix Schaefer, philanthropists from the Village of Oak Creek, have generously funded the first of two planned art installations for local roundabouts with a donation of $110,000. The artwork, titled “Village Treasures” and created by artist Reagan Word, is set for installation at the Cortez Drive roundabout by the end of 2025, with production commencing immediately.

In their statement, the Schaefers expressed their intent to inspire further community contributions towards public art initiatives. They dedicated “Village Treasures” to volunteers who have enriched the community with their time and skills. “The Sedona Main Street Partnership has made an incredible effort to bring public art to the Village,” the couple remarked, emphasizing the importance of recognizing those who uplift community life.

Plans are also underway for a second sculpture, “Dream Catcher,” by artist Chris Navarro. As of May 22, the fundraising effort for this piece has approximately $29,000 still needed. Once funding is secured, fabrication will begin, leading to its eventual installation at the same roundabout.

David Gill, President of SVMSP, voiced his enthusiasm for the project’s progression. “The excitement is building as we move towards fabrication of ‘Village Treasures,’” he said, highlighting the impact of community contributions on bringing public art to life.

The Art in the Roundabouts initiative, which began in 2022, is a collaborative effort between The Big Park Regional Coordinating Council and the Sedona Village Main Street Partnership. The project included community input, artist selection, and a dedicated website for updates and engagement.

As of now, with the Schaefers’ generous support, 83% of the $180,000 fundraising goal for the initial two artworks has been achieved. Following installation, ownership will be transferred to the Red Rock Road Enhancement Maintenance District, which manages road enhancements in the area.

For more details about the project and donation opportunities, visit ourvillageart.org. Information on the Sedona Village Main Street Partnership is available at thesvp.org.