Sonoran Arts League Honors Artistic Excellence at May 12 Awards Ceremony

Judy Bruce

The Sonoran Arts League is set to honor young artists at the 29th Annual Celebration of Art and the 45th Jeff Cross Memorial on May 12. This event provides a platform for over 100 students, ranging from 3rd to 12th grade, to showcase their achievements in visual arts. Scheduled from 4:30 to 6 p.m., the event will take place at the Cactus Shadows High School Fine Arts Center, located at 33606 N. 60th St. in Scottsdale.

Supported by the Sonoran Arts League alongside the Cave Creek Unified School District, the event will feature students from various institutions, including Annunciation Catholic School and Quality Interactive Montessori. Notable sponsors include Steve and Lori Greenberg, and the Kiwanis Club of Carefree.

Ceramic artist Robin Ray, Youth Art Chair for the League, emphasized the importance of youth arts education. “For over 50 years, we have aimed to empower young artists. This event has positively impacted more than 4,000 students,” she stated.

Mixed media painter Judy Bruce, who has coordinated the event for two decades, highlighted art’s significance in a technology-driven world. “Art embodies the handmade, the expressive, and the authentic. It teaches empathy, making us more human,” Bruce explained.

During the ceremony, teachers will publicly recognize each student. Participants will receive gift bags filled with art supplies, courtesy of the Sonoran Arts League, to inspire creativity over the summer.

Last year, Maya Camas, a senior at Cactus Shadows High School, was awarded the prestigious Jeff Cross Bronze Bell Award during the ceremony.

For additional information, visit www.sonoranartsleague.org or call 480-575-6624.