As Arizona’s second largest city, Tucson boasts a heritage that is equal parts spice and style. Here are three places that introduce the Tucson art scene in the best way.
Have a Design-Forward Day In Tucson
BATA INVITES YOU TO DINE WITH ENTICING DESIGN
Whether you describe the menu as adventurous or steadfastly regional, Bata is a must-try in this UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The menu changes daily, but the design is an inspired constant. Shou sugi ban wood wraps the kitchen and bar in a nod to the “fire-themed” cuisine, for example, and lattice work on an accent wall is inspired by Tucson’s monsoon season. The building itself dates to the 1930s when it was a warehouse, but chef-owner Tyler Fenton has breathed new, moody life into both the upstairs and, as of November, the basement bar, which serves up libations named for its hometown.
ETHERTON GALLERY AND ANDREW SMITH GALLERY ARIZONA SHARES THE FUN
Specializing in post-World War II American art, Etherton Gallery has been in business for more than 40 years, although it relocated two years ago. Its current downtown Tucson address offers sweeping ceilings and skylights as well as noteworthy neighbors. Etherton’s friend and colleague Andrew Smith moved his gallery next door. Smith has been in business for five decades and shows contemporary Native American photography as well as historic Western photography. Now, Etherton, Smith and three other gallery owners on the same block all coordinate their openings to share the fun—and the foot traffic. The result? A festival-like atmosphere where visitors can view and purchase some of Tucson’s most notable artwork before exploring nearby restaurants and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
SCULPTURE FESTIVAL SHOW & SALE IS A WORTHY ART STOP
With its combination of small-town charm and university lifestyle, Tucson knows how to host a festival. Case in point is the annual Sculpture Festival Show & Sale, which is held at the Brandi Fenton Memorial Park and is Arizona’s largest juried outdoor sculpture festival. This year, the fun kicks off on March 17 with a ticketed preview party. If rubbing shoulders with artists over hors d’oeuvres isn’t your thing, stop by on March 18 or 19 to see (and buy!) the works of more than 40 sculptors from across the West. For visitors who miss the festival, Sculpture Tucson’s Sculpture Park is a worthy stop.
