Nestled in the heart of Ocotillo, the Ocotillo Artists Group (OAG) is a vibrant community of almost 50 artists representing a broad spectrum of artistic mediums. Founded in 2019 by ceramic artist and longtime Chandler resident Sandy Ashbaugh, the group was established with three primary goals—to showcase the diverse artwork of local artisans, to create sales opportunities for themselves as “art-preneurs,” and to reach a wider audience of art enthusiasts.
In almost six years, the organization has grown significantly, becoming a cornerstone of the visual arts scene in Chandler. The artists of OAG work in a wide array of two-dimensional and three-dimensional mediums, including ceramics, textiles, fused glass, quilts, stone, metal, oil paintings, acrylics, drawing, photography, and more. This diversity ensures that OAG has something to offer for artists and art lovers alike.
“In addition to valuing creativity and artistic expression, our members actively support each other in their professional pursuits through this network,” Ashbaugh says. “The organization hosts juried art shows and pop-up events throughout the year, creating opportunities to connect with the community.”
One such event was the group’s eighth juried fine art and craft show, recently held in Downtown Ocotillo. Open to members and other local artists, the one-day outdoor show featured live music and food and beverages from nearby restaurants, coffeehouses, and wine bars. This lively atmosphere drew art lovers from across the region to experience unique, handmade pieces and meet the talented artists behind them.
Another notable event took place last October, when many OAG artists participated in the Downtown Chandler Art Walk Series. This event offered artists a chance to connect with shoppers seeking one-of-a-kind creations and fostered meaningful interactions between creators and their audiences.
Expanding their reach beyond in-person events, OAG hosted its first Facebook Live Studio Art Sale last September. The virtual event was a success, allowing artists to showcase their work to shoppers from the comfort of their homes.
Ashbaugh highlights this as an example of how the group adapts to new platforms to connect with a broader audience.
The Ocotillo Artists Group is open to visual artists working in all mediums, as well as patrons seeking artistic inspiration. Membership offers access to regular meetings and various events throughout the year. Prospective members can apply through the group’s website.
Ashbaugh and the OAG members express deep gratitude for the ongoing support from the local community. Their success demonstrates how a shared passion for the arts can unite individuals and enrich the cultural landscape of Chandler and beyond.
The artists are also grateful for the encouragement, knowledge, and friendships they have experienced as members.
“I love the camaraderie among this group of great artists,” says Crystal Dennis, who has been a member for more than a year. “Learning about each artist’s medium and process is always engaging, and the business savvy shared among the group is a valuable resource.”
Carol McDonald, who has been a member for five years, says she has enjoyed seeing the evolution of the club and the members who are part of it.
“It’s amazing how we’ve grown professionally in such a short time. I love that we have such a variety of talented artists, and we truly learn from each other,” she says. “For artists looking to take their art to the next level, this is the place to come to!”
OcotilloArtistsGroup.com and @OcotilloArtistsGroup on social media
“The organization hosts juried art shows and pop-up events throughout the year."