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Artfully Enticing

Shemer Art Center is a Local Gem

Located on the southeast corner of Camelback Road and East Arcadia Lane (48th Street), sits Shemer Art Center, named “One of the 10 Best Museums in Phoenix” by USA Today and “One of Phoenix’s 10 Best-Kept Secrets” by The Culture Trip.

A cultural center for all ages, the destination offers a place where both local residents and visitors to the Valley can learn about visual art through classes for both youth and adults, lectures, workshops, exhibits, and events. It hosts at least 10 exhibitions a year, its sculpture garden showcases some of Arizona’s premier sculptors, and its gift shop features works of art created by more than 60 Arizona artists.

“The Shemer Art Center has been a unique and inviting arts destination in the Valley for over 35 years. Its mission has always been to support and showcase Arizona artists, and its artful and historic setting provides a positive and creative energy that many say ‘feels like being inside a beautiful, cozy home,’ says Shonna James, president and executive director. “Our staff prides itself on learning everyone’s names, especially our repeat students and visitors, and everyone is made to feel welcome. Hopefully they also leave inspired!”

The Shemer Art Center is literally a home. According to the organization, “In 1919, developers led by Seymour Jordan formed the Arcadia Water Company and began drilling wells with the intent to sell homesites in the newly named Arcadia neighborhood. To house the foreman of the water company, the first home in Arcadia was built.

In July 1984, long-time Phoenix resident and real estate investor Martha Shemer purchased the twice-renovated, Sante-Fe mission-style home and land. Working with Mayor Terry Goddard, Mrs. Shemer donated the home to the City of Phoenix, not only to preserve the historical property but also to ensure it was used as a community center for city residents.”

In addition to its classes and other activities, the visual art showcased in exhibitions includes drawings, paintings, pottery, ceramics, glass, wood, fiber, mixed-media, and other sculptural works. The outdoor sculptures are made of aluminum, steel, ceramics, bronze and marble.

In regards to what she loves most about Shemer, James says, “Shemer Art Center exists because one person, Martha Shemer, elected to make a difference in her community. Martha was able to acquire this property and donate it to the City of Phoenix, and now thousands of people every year are able to learn about and enjoy visual art! Plus, our longevity and reputation. We have parents who attended art classes or Summer Camps here when they were young who are now bringing their children or grandchildren here. It is truly a neighborhood, city, and state gem!”

Designated as one of the City of Phoenix’s Points of Pride in 1992, Shemer continues to embrace its goal of impacting the community. It is currently in the midst of a $2 million Expansion & Legacy Campaign, with the goal of doubling its impact in the community by acquiring a property next door, already surrounded on three sides by Shemer land.

“Plans call for the tri-level building on-site to be remodeled to host additional classes, workshops, lectures and Summer Camps and Art Clubs for children, as well as provide increased space for meetings and staff,” James shares.

For more information, visit ShemerArtCenter.org.

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