Studio Tour Showcases a Rich Tapestry of Diverse Artists

Arizona’s prominent artist studio tour, Hidden in the Hills, will take place in the North Valley from November 22 to 24 and November 29 to December 1. This event, organized by the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League, is free and self-guided, attracting thousands who appreciate diverse forms of art across various styles and price points. A notable 179 artists will display their work across 44 studios in Cave Creek, Carefree, and North Scottsdale.

Among the returning participants is gourd artist Jan Downey, who brings her distinct approach to the tour for the eleventh time. Utilizing techniques such as pyrography, carving, and various painting methods with inks and dyes, she crafts unique art pieces embellishing with natural materials.

Her creations encompass both sculptural and wall art, marrying modern aesthetics with worldly influences while often drawing inspiration from nature. Downey will showcase her pieces at fiber artist Roxanne Eklund’s Dye for Design Studio No. 31 in Cave Creek.

“I am deeply inspired by both the breadth of cultural differences in art expression and by the extraordinary natural world around me,” Downey shared. “I strive to make art that resonates with the viewer, creating a connection to my work and its reflection of humanity.”

New to this year’s lineup is sculptor Scott Olson, who will present large, vibrant steel and glass sculptures, alongside functional artwork and glass sconce lighting. His work will be on display at mixed media collage artist Cindy Kovack’s Black Mountain Studio No. 36 in Cave Creek.

Olson expressed his creativity saying, “Sculptural work allows me to be free and create things that are whimsical. I like to create art that makes you think a bit but also smile.”

The artist studios will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. during both weekends of the tour. For more information, visit www.HiddenInTheHills.org.