The Camp Verde Artists Group will be exhibiting a fine art group show at the Verde Valley Archaeology Center and Museum with an opening reception on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 1 to 4 p.m.
Mary Rush formed the Camp Verde Artists Group in 2023 with a mission to connect and create with other artists within Camp Verde. The group first exhibited the works of 10 artists at the Camp Verde Community Library and has since grown to 51 members.
“We have grown not only in numbers but in depth,” Rush said. “When I started the group, none of us knew the other artists who lived in our town. We have gone through many avenues of getting acquainted with each other and we’ve tried different approaches to showing our art to introduce the local talent to our community.”
The group has since created an art walk where local businesses on Main Street hosted the artists and have exhibited at the interior courtyard at the Wingfield Plaza and at Salt Mine Wine.
When VVAC hosted a listening session presented by the Arizona Commission on the Arts in July, Rush thought the museum would be a perfect space to host local art.
VVAC Executive Director Monica Buckle was enthusiastic to amplify
local art and the two worked together to shape a unique gallery to exhibit in the museum’s Kemper meeting room.
“A museum is a place where you can escape for a little bit of your day and leave whatever worries or stress you may have at the lobby doors,” Buckle said. “Art dovetails into that sense of a sanctuary and it’s always nice to see something inspiring and uplifting. When visitors are coming in, they get to see another element to Camp Verde. ”
VVAC has its own roster of programming and events, but Buckle was aware of the lack of public space to view and display art.
“Since we’re a community anchor, how can we better serve the community?” Buckle asked. “For us to partner with the Camp Verde artist group is a wonderful new dynamic for the museum. There is a need for organizations to really collaborate with local initiatives regarding arts and installation.”
Seven artists from the group, along with artwork from a VVAC volunteer, will be on display. Art ranges from paintings to jewelry and bags.
“The museum is a beautiful local cultural center that sets high standards, from its historical displays to the knowledgeable staff,” Rush said. “Now museum visitors can view local art as they learn about local archaeology.”
The theme of the opening reception is Dia de los Muertos and there will be complimentary snacks and beverages provided by the artist group. The opening reception is free and open to the public. Museum admission will also be free on this day.
VVAC is not taking any commission from the artists. All art is available for purchase directly from the artists. VVAC is providing the venue and all artwork was curated by the Camp Verde Artists Group.
The exhibit will be up until the end of January. For more information, visit verdevalleyarchaeology.org.
