Images Arizona October 2022

AARON HENRY JEWELRY —

NOVEMBER 11–12

Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m.

Meet the father and son team behind this luxury jewelry collection. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-akind pieces, each of which is hand-crafted, bringing classical Old World quality to modern design.

ITALIAN FINE JEWELRY —

NOVEMBER 4–5

Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m.

Explore a vast collection of jewelry from Italian designers during this exclusive two-day event. From highly polished gold by Roberto Coin, to chic, comfortable jewelry by FOPE, to exquisite, hand-engraved gold by Nanis, to light, flexible jewelry by Mattia Cielo, each and every piece is extraordinarily elegant, ultimately feminine and uniquely Italian.

SLOANE STREET JEWELS —

NOVEMBER 18–19

Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m.

Sloane Street’s jewelry, designed by Frances and Charlotte Gadbois, goes beyond the tangible expression of style by embodying the timeless elegance of every woman. Extra inventory will be on-hand, including special one-of-a-kind pieces.

DECEMBER 9–10

Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m.

Discover the bold and glamorous collections from Stephen Webster, a London-based contemporary fine jewelers celebrated for his fearless creativity, powerful aesthetic, and traditional British craftsmanship. Coveted by Hollywood icons and idols alike, from Megan Fox and Madonna, to David Beckham and Elton John.

Grace Renee Gallery is a refreshingly beautiful way to explore fine contemporary art in the breathtaking shadows of the Sonoran Desert foothills of Carefree, Arizona. Artfully designed jewelry, inspiring sculptures, spectacular wall art, stunning ceramics and more await.

UPCOMING EVENTS

KATHERINE JETTER —

DECEMBER 9–10

Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m.– 5 p.m.

Marvel at the unique enamel hues, vibrant gold treatments and rare colored gems of couture jewelry designer Katherine Jetter. These cuttingedge, wearable art pieces for bold and brilliant women feature sensational, proprietary colors with eye-catching rhodium hues and exceptional, hand-picked gemstones that individually tell Jetter what they need during her design process.

What's Inside?

From the Publisher

Publisher Shelly Spence

Managing Editor

Joseph J. Airdo

Graphic Designer

Meaghan Mitchell

Contributing Writers

Joseph J. Airdo

Amanda Christmann

Francine Coles

Shannon Severson

Photographers

Francine Coles Loralei Lazurek

Carl Schultz

Advertising Sales

Cindi Calcinari 860-966-3271 cindi@imagesaz.com

TThis time of the year, we often talk about the many sights that signal the arrival of the autumn season — leaves flaunting various shades of yellow, orange, red, purple and brown; squirrels and other wildlife hurriedly gathering their food supplies; flocks of birds collectively traveling overhead to destinations unknown; and colorful gourds sitting on stoops, anxiously waiting to be carved into jack-o’-lanterns.

While those sights are certainly spectacular, especially here in Arizona, it has always been the sounds of the season through which I have found the most joy and inspiration.

Whether it is a local band performing live music on the outdoor patio of one of our community’s many fabulous restaurants, an orchestra playing some of the greatest symphonies ever composed on stage or an award-winning musician delivering their nationally renowned rhythms to Arizona audiences, these sounds confirm something at which the aroma of pumpkin spice latte has already hinted: Fall is officially here.

October truly is a terrific time to get outside, explore this incredible community we so proudly call home and discover the many amazing performing arts options available to us. I strongly encourage you to do just that and support our state’s tremendously talented performers and the various venues that generously provide them with the stage they rightly deserve.

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Carefree, AZ. 85377 623-341-8221 imagesarizona.com

Submission of news for community section should be in to shelly@imagesaz.com by the 5th of the month

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From musicians and singers to actors and dancers, we are very fortunate to be able to call these gifted individuals our neighbors. And from the looks of this season’s slate of upcoming performances — many of which are detailed in the pages of this month’s issue — their best is yet to come!

Cheers!

Shelly Spence

Arizona

Phoenix resident Horacio Soto recently visited West Fork Trail in Sedona, where he recreated one of the most iconic scenes from Disney’s classic animated film “The Lion King” with his four-legged hiking companions Lexy and Bruno.

“I like the phrase, ‘Hakuna Matata,’ because it means no worries — and that is kind of what hiking is to me,” says Soto, noting that Lexy and Bruno accompany him on nearly every adventure and enjoy the outdoors just as much as he does. “It is a peaceful time and I just enjoy the moment and nature. I like to hike as much as I can, finding new places to explore and taking photos of each place I visit to capture the memory.”

Photo by Horacio Soto

AAs much as Kurt Elling’s name has become synonymous with jazz music, the two-time Grammy winner acknowledges that the genre is ingrained in his soul; grooving through his veins and giving him purpose, meaning and insight.

“I love the history of it,” Elling says. “I love the ghosts of the musicians who have come before me and have made what I do possible.”

With a songbook covering decades of America’s greatest music, Elling will take the stage Monday, Nov. 21 at Highlands Church in Scottsdale as part of Arizona Musicfest’s 32nd anniversary season. Known for his instantly-recognizable rich baritone voice, the musician has won countless awards around the globe, has been nominated for a Grammy award 15 times and has won 12 Jazz Journalists Awards for Male Vocalist of the Year.

With a songbook covering decades of America’s greatest music, Kurt Elling will take the stage Monday, Nov. 21 at Highlands Church in Scottsdale as part of Arizona Musicfest’s 32nd season.

Arizona Musicfest’s executive and producing director Allan Naplan calls Elling an acclaimed and accomplished communicator and performer.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography Courtesy of Arizona Musicfest

Photo by Cory Dewald

Photo by Anna Webber

Two-time Grammy winner Kurt Elling’s name has become synonymous with jazz music.

Kurt Elling

“Kurt Elling is the reigning top male jazz vocalist of America,” Naplan says. “It is so exciting to bring one of the current jazz legends of America to Arizona Musicfest. He will be joined by the Arizona Musicfest Big Band — which is a 17-piece band that has performed with Michael Feinstein twice before. They are just an outstanding ensemble.”

ADVANCING ARTISTIC INTEGRITY

Naplan notes that Elling is merely the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Arizona Musicfest’s fall 2022 season, which opens with a Nov. 7 concert featuring Brass Transit — a group that recreates the unforgettable sound of the band Chicago, transporting audiences back to the freewheeling days of the 70s and 80s.

We cannot live without music just like we cannot live without food. As human beings, we have got to be able to communicate with one another in often nonverbal ways; ways that involve rhythm and the beat of the heart.

“

“Brass Transit is a group that we had about eight or nine years ago,” Naplan says. “This is a group from Canada that has a major North American presence, and they just do a tremendous job playing the great hits of the band Chicago.”

The season’s sophomore performance is set for Nov. 12, when Marie Osmond takes the stage, accompanied by a 30-piece orchestra. A child of the 70s and 80s, Naplan grew up watching Osmond with her brother Donnie on television.

“They were tremendous entertainers and have both been able to sustain long, successful careers,” he adds. “So we are delighted to have America’s sweetheart perform as part of this season.”

On Nov. 20, Arizona Musicfest will present a concert showcasing Arizona’s brightest young classical musicians — each of whom possesses astounding technique and prodigious musicianship.

“We are so proud of what we do for these outstanding young musicians,” Naplan says. “They always give tremendous concerts and it is always surprising for our audiences to hear their virtuosity.”

Following Elling’s Nov. 21 performance, Arizona Musicfest will close out the year with two holiday concerts — the first of which will feature Big Bad Voodoo Daddy, who will bring its unique and spirited Wild and Swingin’ Holiday Party show to the Valley on Dec. 2.

“Big Bad Voodoo Daddy is the leading swing revival band in America,” Naplan says. “It is a very retro swing sound that is just so cool. They are characters on stage and do tremendous treatments of everyone’s favorite Christmas tunes.”

Then, on Dec. 6, Mark O’Connor will take the stage, joined by his wife, Maggie, and son, Forrest.

“The great Mark O'Connor is an extraordinary virtuosic fiddle player, guitarist and composer,” Naplan says. “His repertoire spans from classical and fiddle concertos to bluegrass and folk. This concert is his embrace of an Appalachian Christmas. It is just a lovely, beautiful concert featuring very sweet performances of holiday classics, done in his very unique, folksy-bluegrass-classical-crossover way.”

Brass Transit // Nov.

Bad Voodoo Daddy

After the holidays, Arizona Musicfest will open 2023 with a number of other concerts throughout winter and into spring. Jason Alexander, Michael Feinstein, Rosanne Cash David Foster and Katharine McPhee are just five of the many notable musical artists who are scheduled to perform in the new year.

“I will not program anything that I do not like,” Naplan says. “I am in Heaven 35 nights of the year, enjoying — alongside the audience — great music of all different genres. We have expanded and stretched some of our genres as well. There is a balance of things that can really advance our artistic integrity.

“Not everything needs to be just for entertainment’s sake. That is a great thing and we all are here to be entertained and enjoy, but, at times, we can push the art as well within the general framework of Arizona Musicfest. It is very fulfilling to have full audiences singing along, clapping and leaving a concert saying, ‘This was one of the greatest nights that I have ever had.’”

10 YEARS LATER

Arizona Musicfest’s 32nd season marks a significant milestone for Naplan as it is his 10th anniversary leading the nonprofit organization and its concerts.

I had spent 20 years in the opera business — seven as a performer and 13 as an administrator,” Naplan says. “Having an interest in broader musical genres, I saw so much potential in Arizona Musicfest. At the time, it was a special secret of North Scottsdale and Carefree/Cave Creek. It was very well-known by those who lived in the area, but I saw an opportunity to really grow it

and to bring in a higher level of quality artists and celebrities.

“Sure enough, 10 years later, we have enjoyed an evolution of the organization, where it is now not only wellknown Valley-wide, but it has also become a major destination for both artists and audience members.”

Fifteen concerts per season has grown to 35 and 7,000 attendees has grown to 35,000, all helping Arizona Musicfest to continue its mission to not only engage and delight audiences with exceptional concerts but also promote and inspire young musicians through valuable performance and scholarship opportunities and educate children and stimulate adults through dynamic music enrichment programs.

Ticket sales from Arizona Musicfest’s concerts benefit a variety of music education programs throughout the Valley. These programs, which are provided at no charge to area schools, include Musicfest Strings, Musicfest Mariachi, Musicfest Winds, Musicfest Strummers, Music and Sound/Found and Around, Musicfest Jazz and The Music of Arizona — the organization’s signature multicultural program.

“It has been a wonderful journey for me — both personally and professionally,” Naplan says. “I am sort of a creator and builder by nature. I have a side career as a composer. It is just in my DNA to be creative.”

Naplan credits the community’s receptive audience as well as Arizona Musicfest’s supportive board and dedicated staff and volunteers with the nonprofit organization’s remarkable success over the past decade.

“We have an audience here that has really embraced and devoured all that we have either tried or tried and sustained,” Naplan explains. “It has been incredibly gratifying for me to have enjoyed these last 10 years of growth.”

Mark O'Connor // Dec. 6

Marie Osmond // Nov. 12

THE RHYTHM OF THE COSMOS

Elling values Arizona Musicfest’s mission, noting that we simply cannot survive without music.

“We cannot live without music just like we cannot live without food,” he says. “As human beings, we have got to be able to communicate with one another in often nonverbal ways; ways that involve rhythm and the beat of the heart.

“We also need to be able to listen strongly and with intent to the heartbeat of the world and of the universe and communicate with non-human entities. We need to be able to communicate with the rhythm of the cosmos, the rhythm of the trees, the rhythm of the birds and the animals. It is not just human lives that are on the line at this point.”

Elling adds that he also personally owes a great deal of gratitude to music.

“It has given me my way of being in the world,” he explains. “It has given me my income and, therefore, my home and security for my family. It has given me friends all over the world. I get to tour 200 nights a year to Asia, Europe and South America.

“I do not know how I would or could have been able to enjoy my life in the way that I have without music being first and foremost as my vocation and my dedication. So it has really given me just about everything that I have got.”

azmusicfest.org

Experience

Brass Transit: The Musical Legacy of Chicago

Monday, Nov. 7 at 7:30 p.m.

Highlands Church

9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale

$34+

Marie Osmond

Saturday, Nov. 12 at 7:30 p.m.

Highlands Church

9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale

$64+

Fall Young Musicians Concert

Sunday, Nov. 20 at 2 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum

4725 E. Mayo Blvd., Phoenix

$20

Kurt Elling

Monday, Nov. 21 at 7:30 p.m.

Highlands Church

9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale

$51+

Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: Wild and Swingin’ Holiday Party!

Friday, Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church

9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale

$51+

Mark O’Connor:

An Appalachian Christmas

Tuesday, Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church

6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale

$34+

COMMUNITY

Through Oct. 9

‘DISNEY’S 101 DALMATIANS KIDS’

October 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Desert Foothills Theater will present its production of “Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Kids,” based on the classic animated film. $25; youth and student discounts available. See website for times. The Holland Center, 34250 N. 60th St., Scottsdale. dftheater.org

Through Oct. 9

‘ROALD DAHL’S MATILDA THE MUSICAL, JR.’

Desert Stages Theatre will present its production of “Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical, Jr.,” which tells the story of a little girl with magical powers. See website for price and times. Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-1664; desertstages.org

Through Oct. 9

TERESA BAKER: CAPTURING SPACE

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art debuts its exhibition of Los Angeles-based Mandan/Hidatsa artist Teresa Baker’s large-scale hanging works that are influenced by mid-century, New York, abstract expressionist artists. $10; youth, student senior, veteran and member discounts available. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. smoca.org

Through Oct. 22

‘EXIT LAUGHING’

Oct. 8 and 9

EXPERIENCE MEXICO

Musical Instrument Museum will celebrate the colorful sights and diverse sounds of Mexico’s rich musical traditions with live performances and workshops. See website for schedule of events. $20; youth discounts available. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Musical Instrument Museum, 4725 E. Mayo Blvd. Phoenix. 480-478-6000; mim.org

Don Bluth Front Row Theater will present its production of “Exit Laughing,” the story of a woman who borrows her friend’s ashes from a funeral home for one last card game, resulting in a night that involves a police raid, a stripper and more. $30; youth, student, senior, military and group discounts available. See website for times. Don Bluth Front Row Theater, 8989 E. Via Linda, Suite 118, Scottsdale. 480-314-0841; donbluthfrontrowtheatre.com

Through Oct. 23

‘BANDSTAND’

The Phoenix Theatre Company will present its production of “Bandstand,” the story of a veteran who returns home from WWII to parades and celebrations in his small town of Ohio, but, amongst the festivities, feels lost. Deciding to return to his love of music and life as a pianist, he forms a band with veterans who also feel the lingering effects of war. See website for price and times. The Phoenix Theatre Company, 1825 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-254-2151; phoenixtheatre.com

Through Oct. 23

‘A DELICATE BALANCE’

The Theatre Artists Studio will present its production of “A Delicate Balance,” which tells the story of a family and

its neighbors who deal with fears from without and conflicts from within as they struggle to keep that delicate balance between order and chaos. $25; student, senior, military and group discounts available. See website for times. The Theatre Artists Studio, 4848 E. Cactus Road, Suite 406, Scottsdale. thestudiophx.org

Through May 14

SAMA ALSHAIBI: GENERATION AFTER GENERATION

Phoenix Art Museum debuts its exhibition of works by 2021 Arlene and Morton Scult Artist Award recipient Sama Alshaibi, whose projects of photographic imagery, video and installation link themes of dispossession, mobility, peripheries, refuge, ecological entropy and future and historical imaginings. $23; youth, student, senior, military and member discounts available. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-257-1880; phxart.org

Oct. 1 and 2

SING JOYFULLY!

Sonoran Desert Chorale will present a concert that celebrates life and living; spiritual harmony; and music itself. $25; student, senior and group discounts available. Saturday 7:30 p.m. First United Methodist Church of Mesa, 15 E. First Ave., Mesa. Sunday 3 p.m. La Casa de Cristo Lutheran Church, 6300 E. Bell Road, Scottsdale. sonorandesertchorale.org

Oct. 1–Feb. 12

IN OUR TIME: SELECTIONS FROM THE SINGER COLLECTION

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art will debut a collection of Iris and Adam C. Singer’s focused look at 40 works by 27 contemporary artists from the African diaspora. Through painting as a primary medium, the exhibition deconstructs the use of narrative, figuration and abstraction. $10; youth, student, senior, veteran and member discounts available. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. smoca.org

Oct. 1–Feb. 28

HIGHLIGHTS AUDIO TOUR

Taliesin West will offer a tour across its grounds to explore the interiors and some of the landmark’s most iconic spaces. The tour is delivered through visitors’ smartphones via a free app and includes music and narration by Frank Lloyd Wright himself. $39; youth and student discounts available. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. 480860-2700; franklloydwright.org

COMMUNITY

Oct. 1–Feb. 28

IN-DEPTH GUIDED TOUR

October 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Taliesin West will offer a tour hosted by a passionate, knowledgeable guide exploring the historic core of Taliesin West in a group setting. The tour will dive into the tenets of organic architecture, the art and objects from the Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation’s archival collections and the storied history of the site and its famed architect. $49; youth and student discounts available. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. 480-860-2700; franklloydwright.org

Oct. 6 and 7

CHAMPIONS OF MAGIC

A cast of top magicians will perform incredible interactive illusions, an impossible escape from Houdini’s water torture cell, levitation high above the stage and more. $45+. 7:30 pm. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix. 602-262-7272; championsofmagic.co.uk

Oct. 7–Nov. 5

‘MONTY PYTHON’S SPAMALOT’

Arizona Broadway Theatre will present its production of “Monty Python’s Spamalot,” which retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy of beautiful showgirls, cows, killer rabbits and French people. See website for price and times. Arizona Broadway Theatre, 7701 W. Paradise Lane, Peoria. 623-776-8400; azbroadway.org

Oct. 8

URBAN NOCTURNES

Arts at the Rocks will bring Urban Nocturnes to its stage for a performance of music for strings and flute. Free. 4 p.m. Desert Hills Presbyterian Church, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Drive, Scottsdale. 480-488-3384; deserthills.org

Through Feb. 12

AND LET IT REMAIN SO: WOMEN OF THE AFRICAN DIASPORA

Phoenix Art Museum debuts its exhibition of more than 70 portraits, landscapes, self-portraits and family archival images that resent the nuanced perspectives of five photographers who are exploring their experiences of the African Diaspora. Experienced collectively, these dynamic photographs illuminate shared and separate understandings of family and history; place and displacement; migration and mobility; and belonging and community. $23; youth, student, senior, military and member discounts available. Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave., Phoenix. 602-257-1880; phxart.org

Oct. 9

HARVEST MOON FEAST

Chef Mark Tarbell will host his 8th annual Harvest Moon Feast fundraiser, which will benefit the Careers through Culinary Arts Program and the 9,000 students in Arizona who receive the culinary, job and life skills training that the 32-yearold nonprofit organization provides. $125+. 5:30–9 p.m. Tarbell's, 3213 E. Camelback Road, Phoenix. tarbells.com

Oct. 9

SCOTTSDALE PHILHARMONIC

Scottsdale Philharmonic will open its 11th season with a concert of classical music by composers Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, Charles Gounod, Anton Rubenstein and Franz Lisvt. $15 donation. 4 p.m. Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, 7380, E. Second St., Scottsdale. scottsdalephilharmonic.com

14–16

OPENING NIGHT! A ROMANTIC EVENING

The Phoenix Symphony will open its season with a collection of landmark works that showcase the spectacular sounds of the full orchestra with Virginia G. Piper music director Tito Muñoz and virtuosa violinist Sarah Chang. $34+. See website for times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 602-495-1999; phoenixsymphony.org

Oct. 14

EMPTY BOWLS BIG HEARTS

Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center and Sonoran Arts League will host their annual fundraiser, aspiring to raise $20,000 to go toward keeping the food bank’s shelves stocked while promoting awareness about hunger and food insecurity in the community. Attendees of the event may purchase bowls created and donated by members and friends of the Sonoran Arts League thereby supporting Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center, which has experienced a 51% increase in visits over the same period last year. Free. 11 a.m.–1:30 p.m. Harold's Cave Creek Corral, 6895 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-1145; foothillsfoodbank.com.

Oct. 14–16

‘THE FALLING AND THE RISING’

Arizona Opera will present its production of “The Falling and the Rising,” an operatic story of service and sacrifice, which traces the inner journey of a soldier who enters a coma after she suffers a roadside attack. As the soldier moves through her unconscious dreamscape, the audience will serve as both companion and witness, sharing powerful encounters with fellow service members along the way. See website for price and times. Herberger

Theater Center, 222 E. Monroe St. Phoenix. 602-254-7399; azopera.org

Oct. 14–30

‘GASLIGHT’

Fountain Hills Theater will present its production of “Gaslight,” the thrilling story of an overbearing man who is determined to send his wife over the edge of insanity. $32; youth, student and senior discounts available. See website for times.

Fountain Hills Theater, 11445 N. Saguaro Blvd., Fountain Hills. 480837-9661; fhtaz.org

Oct. 14–30

‘KING LEAR’

Southwest Shakespeare Company will present its production of “King Lear,” a drama about a king gone mad. $55; youth, student and teacher discounts available. See website for times. Mesa Arts Center, 1 E. Main St., Mesa. shakespeare.org

Oct. 14–Nov. 6

‘PROOF’

Desert Stages Theatre will present its production of “Proof,” the story of an enigmatic young woman, her manipulative sister, their brilliant father and an unexpected suitor. See website for price and times. Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-1664; desertstages.org

Oct. 14–Jan. 29

SACRED SPACES EXHIBITION

Taliesin West will debut its exhibition of 32 large-scale photographs of 13 examples of architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright that all share a sacred aura through their masterful use of light and connection to the surrounding landscape. Free with paid tour admission. Taliesin West, 12621 N. Frank Lloyd Wright Blvd., Scottsdale. 480-860-2700; franklloydwright.org

COMMUNITY

15

GOLDEN SWAN GALA

October 2022

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

The Phoenix Ballet will host an enchanted evening of dance followed by an elegant reception for adult patrons and a festive social for younger guests. The event will showcase the best of dance by internationally renowned guest artists performing a myriad of dance forms, iconic works from Phoenix Ballet Company dancers and the unique opportunity to dine with the guest artists. See website for price. 6 p.m. Orpheum Theatre, 203 W. Adams St., Phoenix. 602-262-7272; phoenixballet.org

Oct. 16

BAND-O-RAMA

Salt River Brass will present a concert that showcases its versatility through classics such as “English Folk Song Suite,” “Orient Express and “Midwest March, as well as classic rock from Elvis Presley, Queen and the Beatles. $19+; youth, student and senior discounts available. 3 p.m. Mesa Arts Center, One E. Main St., Mesa. saltriverbrass.org

Oct. 18

BART AMBROSE

Desert Foothills Library will host a meet-and-greet with “Cactizonians’ Treasure” author Bart Ambrose. Free. 4–5 p.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

Oct. 20

CAREFREE ART NIGHT

Oct. 20–23

COSANTI ORIGINALS BRONZE SALE

Cosanti Originals will host its annual bronze sale, featuring savings on all bronze wind bells, planters and more. 9 a.m.–5 p.m. Cosanti Originals, 6433 E. Doubletree Ranch Road, Paradise Valley. 480-948-6145; cosanti.com

Galleries throughout Carefree will host an event that offers art enthusiasts an opportunity to enjoy live music and refreshments as they stroll through the breathtaking shadows of Black Mountain in search of their next masterpiece. Free. 4–7 p.m. See website for participating galleries. visitcarefree.com

Oct. 20

DAVID STANASOLOVICH

Desert Foothills Library will host a meet-and-greet with “The Mad Girl” author David Stanasolovich. Free. 4–5 p.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480-488-2286; dfla.org

Oct. 20–23

‘CINDERELLA’

As if stepping between the pages of a beloved storybook, Ballet Arizona choreographer Ib Andersen will bring “Cinderella’s” classic story of romance and magic to life, vividly delighting audiences with the beauty and majesty of classical ballet, wrapped in the promise of “happily ever after” and generously sprinkled with humor. $35+. See

website for times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 602-3811096; balletaz.org

Oct. 21–23

STAGECOACH VILLAGE FINE ART AND WINE FESTIVAL

Vermillion Promotions will host its Stagecoach Village Fine Art and Wine Festival, featuring more than 100 world-class artists, wineries, trendy food concessions and main stage entertainment. The unique outdoor gallery will boast a collection of original art that represents a wide variety of cultures and artwork in a range of subject matter and media. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Stagecoach Village, 7100 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek. vermillionpromotions.com

Oct. 21–30

‘HEATHERS: THE MUSICAL — TEEN EDITION’

Desert Stages Theatre will present its production of “Heathers: The Musical — Teen Edition,” the story of a brainy, beautiful teenage misfit who hustles her way into the most powerful and ruthless clique at Westerberg High. See website for price and times. Desert Stages Theatre at Fashion Square, 7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 0586, Scottsdale. 480-483-1664; desertstages.org

Oct. 21–Nov. 6 ‘BARBECUE’

Black Theatre Troupe will present its production of “Barbecue,” which tells the story of what happens when a drug-addicted woman arrives at a family barbecue, strungout and out of control. $48+. See website for times. Helen K. Mason Performing Arts Center, 1333 E. Washington St., Phoenix. 602-2588128; blacktheatretroupe.org

Oct. 22

CHAMPAGNE, ART & CHOCOLATE

Carolyn Eynon Singers will host its annual fundraiser, featuring live music performances, a silent auction a golden ticket raffle and more. $70+. 3–5 p.m. See website for location. carolyneynonsingers.com

Oct. 28–30

‘HOCUS POCUS’ IN CONCERT LIVE TO FILM

The Phoenix Symphony will perform the score from “Hocus Pocus” as the film is shown on the screen above the stage. $34+. See website for times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 602-495-1999; phoenixsymphony.org

Oct. 29

HARRY POTTER HALLOWEEN

English Rose Tea Room will host a Harry Potter-themed celebration featuring afternoon teas, gift bags and more. Costumes are encouraged. Adults $60; children $35. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy Street Suite 103, Carefree. 480-488-4812; carefreetea.com

Oct. 29 and 30

KIERLAND FINE ART AND WINE FESTIVAL

Vermillion Promotions will host its inaugural Kierland Fine Art and Wine Festival, featuring more than 100 world-class artists, wineries, trendy food concessions and main stage entertainment. The unique outdoor gallery will boast a collection of original art that represents a wide variety of cultures and artwork in a range of subject matter and media. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Kierland Commons, 15205 N. Kierland Blvd., Scottsdale. vermillionpromotions.com

Insulation

COMMUNITY

October 2022

Oct. 29–Aug. 6

PHILLIP K. SMITH III: THREE PARALLELS

Photo by Lance Gerber

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art will debut its exhibition of California artist Phillip K. Smith III’s immersive, light-based installation, comprising three monolithic, mirrored volumes that merge light and reflection to create an infinite space for color. $10; youth, student, senior, veteran and member discounts available. Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, 7374 E. Second St., Scottsdale. smoca.org

Oct. 30

‘THE RAVEN’

Arizona Curriculum Theater actor Jim Coates will recite Edgar Allan Poe’s ‘The Raven’ during a spooky celebration that will include tea and scones. Gothic costumes are encouraged. $50. 3–5 p.m. English Rose Tea Room, 201 Easy Street Suite 103, Carefree. 480-488-4812; carefreetea.com

Nov. 3 FREEDOM ISN’T FREE

Youth for Troops will host an open-house style event that will include a donation drive, special holiday projects, box decorating and appreciation card writing. Youth for Troops will also be collecting Halloween candy to ship to deployed troops. Free. 10 a.m.–3 p.m. Desert Foothills Library, 38443 N. Schoolhouse Road, Cave Creek. 480488-2286; dfla.org

Nov. 4–6

CAREFREE FINE ART AND WINE FESTIVAL

Oct. 22 and 23

SUNNYSLOPE STUDIO TOUR

The Sunnyslope Studio Tour will bring together 23 professional artists who will demonstrate and sell their art at 14 studios throughout the historic, quirky and diverse Sunnyslope area of Phoenix. Free. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. sunnyslopestudiotour.com

Thunderbird Artists will host its fall event during which attendees can view fine art selected through a comprehensive jury process, sample fine wines and spirits, snack on festival food and listen to live music, all while soaking in the sunshine, reveling in the mountain views and meeting artists and fellow art lovers. This fall’s featured artist is oil painter Danial James, whose diverse work includes animals, beverages and stylized history. $4. 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Downtown Carefree, 101 Easy St., Carefree. thunderbirdartists.com

Nov. 4–6

MUSIC OF THE AMERICAS

The Phoenix Symphony will present a concert that celebrates the rich and varied orchestral traditions of North and South America. $34+. See website for times. Symphony Hall, 75 N. Second St., Phoenix. 602-495-1999; phoenixsymphony.org

Nov. 4–13

CANAL CONVERGENCE: WATER + ART + LIGHT

Scottsdale Arts will host its 10thanniversary showcase of large-scale artworks. Free. Scottsdale Waterfront, 7135 E. Camelback Road, Scottsdale. canalconvergence.com

Nov. 5

HEROES UNDER THE STARS

Rancho Milagro will host a charitable, county fair-style evening featuring a chili cookoff and live music by Trio Rio. Flagstaff Rancho Milagro director and trauma survivor Antoinette Maestas will share her story of how equineassisted therapy saved her life and her subsequent calling to become an equine specialist. $50. 4:30–7:30 p.m. Rancho Milagro, 32905 N. 140th St., Scottsdale. 480-5292633; ranchomilagroaz.org

Nov. 6

AN EVENING WITH ESTEBAN

The Hermosa Inn will host a concert featuring guitarist Esteban and his violinist daughter, Teresa Joy. The evening will include a sumptuous four-course dinner. $225. See website for time. The Hermosa Inn, 5532 N. Palo Cristi Road, Paradise Valley. hermosainn. com

Nov. 7

BRASS TRANSIT

Arizona Musicfest brings Brass Transit to the stage for a concert that recreates the unforgettable sound of the band Chicago, transporting audiences back to the freewheeling days of the 70s and 80s. $34+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

COMMUNITY

Nov. 12

MARIE OSMOND

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

October 2022

Nov. 6 ERIN HANSON

Contemporary impressionist Erin Hanson will host an artist meet-and-greet reception at her recently opened art gallery, which showcases her original oil paintings and 3D textured replicas, as well as her canvas prints, coffee table books and calendars. Free. See website for time. The Erin Hanson Gallery, 7117 E. Main St., Scottsdale. erinhanson.com

Arizona Musicfest brings Marie Osmond to the stage, accompanied by a 30-piece orchestra. $64+. 7:30 p.m. Highlands Church, 9050 E. Pinnacle Peak Road, Scottsdale. azmusicfest.org

Nov. 12 and 13

PHOENIX PIZZA FESTIVAL

PHX Fest will host its seventh annual Phoenix Pizza Festival, featuring live music, a kids zone, lawn games, dessert trucks and 15–20 pizza makers — creating a cheesy paradise for the whole family in the heart of downtown Phoenix. $16 entry (online purchase only). Saturday 11 a.m.–6 p.m. Sunday 11 a.m.–4 p.m. Margaret T. Hance Park, 1202 N. Third St., Phoenix. phoenix.pizza

BIG BRONCO CHANGES HANDS

After more than 20 years as its owner, Faith Weinberg recently sold Big Bronco to Julie and Jeff Anderson. She will continue to consult for the Andersons for a minimum of six months, ensuring that the rustic furniture, home accessories and gifts store continues to flourish for years to come. bigbroncocavecreek.com

CHURCH FOUNDS MUSIC SCHOOL

Desert Hills Presbyterian Church recently founded its new Desert Hills Community School of Music, which offers world-class instruction in piano, strings and woodwinds from some of the most sought-after teachers in the Phoenix area. To meet the full breadth of students’ musical goals, the school has two collaborative divisions — one of which operates as a performance-oriented conservatory and the other of which emphasizes recreational musicmaking and community outreach. deserthillsmusic.org

SCOTTSDALE PUBLIC ART UNVEILS ‘PINBALL WIZARD’

Scottsdale Public Art recently unveiled artist Annette Coleman’s mosaic artwork enhancements at the splash pad near Marshall Way Bridge at the Scottsdale Waterfront. Coleman’s design, “Pinball Wizard,” includes a new concrete wall and bench with 30 mosaic spheres and domes of various sizes, along with inset waves of vertical glass mosaic pieces. The artist’s glass is cut into random shapes and in a variety of colors that dance with light in any weather. scottsdalepublicart.org

Down to a Fine Art

FFine art and wine connoisseurs this fall have a new festival at which they can search for their next favorite work of art while sipping the best chardonnays and cabernet sauvignons from Arizona’s fabulous wine regions.

Set for Oct. 29 and 30, the inaugural Kierland Fine Art and Wine Festival will feature more than 100 worldclass artists, wineries, trendy food concessions and main stage entertainment. The unique outdoor gallery will boast a collection of original art that represents a wide variety of cultures and artwork in a range of subject matter and media.

The festival is just the latest addition to a long string of Arizona events produced by Vermillion Promotions — which also hosts festivals in Cave Creek, Litchfield Park, Scottsdale, Tubac and Tucson.

Vermillion Promotions founder Candy Vermillion says that each of the festivals has become a signature event in its respective city or town, with the company’s team of event professionals, artists, friends and family closely collaborating with local businesses, nonprofit organizations and sponsors to form long-lasting partnerships.

“One of the things that set us apart from other art festivals is the festival experience that we create,” says Vermillion, emphasizing the excitement that comes with creating an event that transforms a city street, park or facility into a vibrant social and economic hub. “We start with beautiful venues and great artists, always striving to bring galleryquality art along with unique affordable original works of art — so there will be something for everyone.”

Vermillion believes that the new location provides the ideal environment for the caliber of festivals for which her company is responsible, as Kierland Commons artfully blends shopping, dining and entertainment. The mixed-use oasis is home to some of the most desired lifestyle brands as well as the region’s most alluring restaurants and nightlife.

Attendees of the inaugural Kierland Fine Art and Wine Festival will find everything from thought-provoking paintings and spectacular sculptures to sparkling hand-blown glass and one-of-a-kind handcrafted jewelry at the event. To

Writer Joseph J. Airdo

Featured Artists Jason and Danielle Napier // Photo by Craig Bergsgaard

Promotions

enhance the experience, Vermillion Promotions has invited a number of Arizona wine growers, who will be bringing their very best selections for attendees to taste and experience.

A variety of delectable sweets, trendy food concessions and refreshing beverages will further complement the festival experience, as will the upbeat sounds of live musical entertainment — including Daniel Ryan Harris, Sandra Bassett, the Motown Revue and more.

“Our events have attracted loyal patrons that follow us from event to event,” Vermillion says. “I am always amazed to see familiar faces in the crowd — from Colorado to Tubac. The art community is like family, and there is nothing more rewarding than connecting artists, patrons and local businesses.”

Vermillion Promotions will also host its illustrious Stagecoach Village Fine Art and Wine Festival Oct. 21–23 at the crossroads of the towns of Cave Creek and Carefree.

Stagecoach Village Fine Art Festivals

Experience

Kierland Fine Art & Wine Festival

29 and 30 | 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Commons

N. Kierland Blvd., Scottsdale

“The

like family, and there is nothing

than connecting artists, patrons and local

AArizona has long been known for its magnificent mountain views and warm weather that make social and recreational activities such as golfing, hiking and outdoor shopping enjoyable experiences year round. Those enviable traits have created a demand from homebuyers — especially those seeking a lavish lifestyle — that is quite possibly the strongest in all of the U.S.

“We are finding more and more clients looking for upscale properties in private communities,” says Laura Lester, sales associate for Silverleaf Realty.

Tucked into the canyons of the McDowell Mountains and surrounded by the McDowell Sonoran Preserve, Silverleaf is one such private community that provides its residents with an oasis of opulent offerings — from an 18-hole championship golf course that winds along 7,322 yards of inspiring terrain to an array of health, wellness and recreational amenities.

“

Deborah Beardsley

After a successful sell-out of the residences within its first phase, sales are now underway at the second phase of ICON at Silverleaf — the newest development within North Scottsdale’s renowned DC Ranch community.

“We offer a unique and highly desirable lifestyle in a pristine desert environment,” Beardsley says. “I have been a part of this community since the beginning and am excited to be a part of this final offering.”

Nina Joki — director of marketing for Legacy Real Estate Partners — adds that the second phase of ICON at Silverleaf is underscored with higher quality materials and options as well as new buildings that provide premium view corridors.

“From the owners, architect and builder to the designers and sales team, the players are all different from the initial phase of this project,” Joki says.

Expertly blending upscale residential services with a tranquil setting that boasts artfully designed structures harmonizing with the environment, ICON at Silverleaf will include eight four-story buildings upon its completion.

Covered parking garages — pre-wired for electric car chargers — are located on the first floors, while the fourth-floor 6,288-square-foot penthouse plan offers grandiose views of the surrounding 4,600 acres of open space that are unlike anywhere else in Arizona.

Silverleaf Realty associate broker Deborah Beardsley notes that ICON is Silverleaf’s last new development.

We offer a unique and highly desirable lifestyle in a pristine desert environment. I have been a part of this community since the beginning and am excited to be a part of this final offering.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo Photography and Renderings Courtesy of ICON at Silverleaf

Each ICON at Silverleaf home includes a selection of carefully curated designer finishes. Buyers receive design consultation with an award-winning, published designer, who guides them through the process of selecting finishes and navigating available upgrades.

Top floor owners also have the option to finish their rooftops with their own private pool and outdoor living space. Elevators are semiprivate with a designated vestibule in each plan, ensuring ultimate exclusivity and convenience.

Of course, the lavish home experience is only a part of the private community’s prodigious appeal, as ICON at Silverleaf also incorporates a bevy of health, wellness and recreational amenities into its spacious setting.

In addition to its own spectacular resort-style pool and spa, ICON is within walking distance of The Village Health Spa as well as The Silverleaf Club — a golf and social membership club boasting exquisitely appointed interior spaces, wondrous outdoor courtyards, fine and casual dining areas and endlessly inviting environs for residents to gather in friendship with their neighbors.

The development also sits adjacent to the Canyon Village commercial center as well as a variety of entertainment, dining, shopping and cultural destinations.

Fresh, lively and flowing with modern layouts and expansive open spaces as well as plans designed to showcase incredible views by day and by night, ICON at Silverleaf is the type of North Scottsdale development that ensures this mountainous region we so proudly call home firmly maintains its identity as one of the most coveted places to live in the entire country.

Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography by Robert Elenbaas

CContrary to popular belief and what many horror movies suggest, photographer Robert Elenbaas says that there are not too many true ghost towns in Arizona — at least not many with structures still standing.

He lists Wickenburg’s Vulture Mine; Apache Junction’s Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine; and Jerome’s Gold King Mine as the three exceptions. However, even those have a more touristy vibe than one might expect. Nonetheless, with a bit of selective focus made possible by photography, one can make them look like true ghost towns.

Another area that could be considered a ghost town is the little, antiquated community called Lowell, located near Bisbee.

“The interesting part of it is basically one old street,” Elenbaas says. “All of the businesses along that street have been abandoned — except for one restaurant called the Bisbee Breakfast Club. There are several old gas stations and someone has brought in a lot of 1930s- and 1940s-era automobiles that are just parked along the street. So it is very interesting from a photography standpoint.”

Utilizing several photos that Elenbaas has masterfully taken in such settings, Images Arizona this month transports its readers to an alternate dimension, where — in the small, abandoned (and fictional) town of Eerie, Arizona — your worst nightmares become a reality.

Elenbaas notes that it was never his intention for these photos to convey a frightful feeling. He simply set out to capture Arizona history — a sincere sense of the past, what once was but is not anymore, and the relics of what has been left behind. And they can certainly be seen and appreciated in that context.

However, in the spirit of Halloween, we invite you to explore these images through the alternative lens in which ghastly ghosts lurk around every decrepit corner, patiently waiting to make themselves known and finally — after centuries of solitude — re-enter the land of the living.

Dead trees and cacti can convey a sense of a ghost or soul that is still keeping watch over a country road. Robert Elenbaas“

Another Arizona ghost town is the Goldfield Ghost Town and Mine in Apache Junction. That is real touristy but, with selective focus, you can make it look like a true ghost town. Robert Elenbaas

Some of the ghost towns in Arizona that have been semimaintained include the Vulture Mine in Wickenburg. There is a ghost town there, of sorts, in the sense that there are some old buildings that date back to the days when the mine was truly active. That is a fun place to go.

Robert Elenbaas

Up in Jerome, just outside of Sedona, there is a mine called Gold King Mine. There is an area of it that is kind of ‘ghost towny.’ They have some old buildings and a lot of old cars and equipment and things like that.

Elenbaas

About the Photographer

Robert Elenbaas initially developed an interest in landscape and nature photography as an extension of his wilderness backpacking experiences. Nowadays, the dynamic has shifted, with photography leading the way and dictating where and when he embarks on backpacking adventures.

“Many of my travels revolve around trying to get into settings where I can create some unique images for my portfolio,” Elenbaas says. “Fortunately, my wife is very patient and enjoys these kinds of travels as well.”

This summer, Elenbaas centered his attention on bulking up his collection of images related to Monument Valley and Antelope Canyon. He also continues to have a particular fondness for nightscape photography. The Anthem resident is frequently amazed and awed by the things that he finds in nature.

“My goal is that at least some of my photographs succeed in telling a story about their subject,” he adds. “I strive to create expressive images that communicate the emotion, amazement, awe, harmony and peace that I felt when the shutter clicked.”

Elenbaas’ photography may be seen and purchased at The Finer Artists Gallery, 6137 E. Cave Creek Road, Cave Creek — an artistowned gallery exhibiting the work of local fine artists in mediums that include jewelry, glass, fiber sculpture, ceramics, bronze, gourds, textile, photography, metal sculpture, wood live edge, graphite, acrylic, pastel and oil.

Visit anchor.fm/imagesaz or scan this QR code with your phone to heighten your hair-raising exploration of Eerie, Arizona by listening to Images Immersive: Ghost Town as you delve into this month’s photo essay.

A Dream by the SeaKatherine Jetter Couture Jewelry

TThe earth reveals its glory to us each day in painterly sunsets, striated rock formations, sunlight reflecting off rippling waters or verdant green trees quivering in the breeze. But some of the rarest beauty is hidden beneath the ground in gemstones. There is something thrilling about a brilliant gem –– the way it catches the light, the slight variations in color and the knowledge that it’s not just any old rock; it’s a treasure.

At the highest tier of these sparkling rarities are jewels so pure as to not require any heating or chemical alteration to bring out their color and radiance. Luxury jewelry designer Katherine Jetter works with these gems exclusively and a collection of her colorful, eye-catching designs that combine premier quality precious stones and specialty gold finishes make their Arizona debut at Carefree’s Grace Renee Gallery.

“I only work with unheated gemstones,” Jetter reveals. “They are the most special and rare. I work with miners around the world to find rare, unheated pink sapphires, imperial topaz from Brazil, paraiba tourmaline from Brazil and Mozambique –– these unbelievable small parcels of different colored gems. I use diamonds, too, but it’s all about the gem hunt for me. I seek out colors and gems that are unique and magical.”

She attends the Tucson gem show each year and spends 10 days looking at hundreds of stones before she settles on just three or four gems for each line.

“I’m a complete dork,” she says with a smile in her voice. “I love chemistry and gemology. For me, the thing that drove me to

Writer Shannon Severson Photography by Carly Tumen

A collection of luxury jewelry designer Katherine Jetter’s colorful, eye-catching

designs that combine premier quality precious stones and specialty gold finishes

make their Arizona debut at Carefree’s Grace Renee Gallery.

become a jewelry designer is the gems themselves. Miners find average material 90% of the time. Then they find something special. That’s someone’s entire life and commitment to find something so special. I go and find those stones and bring them into my collection for some lucky woman to behold. I take pride in making these pieces.”

How this talented native of Melbourne, Australia built a sought-after brand from scratch is the story of hard work, high risk and dreams fulfilled. Coming from a family with no connections to the jewelry industry, she showed creative talent from a young age and attended art school in the United Kingdom. While there, Jetter won an international art prize for the northern hemisphere in 1999.

She hoped to attend Central Saint Martin’s College of Art and Design in London, but her parents weren’t keen to have her focus on creative pursuits. Instead, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree in clinical psychology.

Between university and her first job at JP Morgan’s London office, Jetter studied language in Florence, Italy.

“I would walk the streets after classes and there were all these jewelry artisans in small shops,” she recounts. “I was fascinated by it. I approached one woman and, in my bad Italian, asked if I could draw for her and practice my Italian language skills. I was able to sketch for her and practice speaking while she made jewelry.”

Back in London, the inspiration she had discovered in the cobbled streets of Florence never left. In fact, it only grew stronger.

“I daydreamed for three years about sitting by the ocean making jewelry as I was working on spreadsheets at JP Morgan,” Jetter recalls.

She convinced her father to allow her to attend the Gemological Institute of America –– more commonly known as GIA –– in New York City. He agreed, but with the caveat that she needed to land a job within three months. So off she went with a dream, her artistic skills and a lot of determination and became a GIA Graduate Gemologist.

“The Diamond Dealers Club was looking for more members, especially women,” Jetter says. “I offered to be the sixth woman in the club.”

With a seat at the table at the foremost diamond exchange in the U.S., a friend of Jetter’s handed her a

check for $10,000 and an order for a custom engagement ring –– the first of many pieces she would design from that day forward.

“I started making one-of-a-kind engagement rings for my friends,” Jetter says. “I didn’t have any family in the industry or any connections whatsoever. I have saved up every dollar I’ve made to create my jewelry brand, beginning in 2008.”

In her brand’s inaugural year, Jetter was a nominee for Couture Designer of the Year and was picked up by Saks Fifth Avenue stores. A year and a half later, Neiman Marcus also began featuring her line and a slew of luxury retailers followed.

Jetter is known for reintroducing opals –– the signature precious stone of her homeland –– back to the luxury market and her collection has been featured in British Vogue and Robb Report.

Her jewelry has also adorned stars on the red carpet, most recently at the Grammy Awards ceremony by country music superstar Miranda Lambert, who flashed a pair of Jetter’s Tik Tok earrings fashioned with tanzanite cabochons and dark gray Tahitian pearls and a showstopping evening cocktail ring with a 61.91-carat Burmese blue grey star sapphire surrounded by gray and purple sapphires and diamonds.

“The ideas are always floating somewhere in my brain before they hit paper,” says Jetter of her creative process. “As a creative, I’m always designing in my head and then it comes out on paper. I’m a traditional with pencil and paper. My workshop creates the cads and we go to production from there.”

While the majority of her work over the years has been one-of-a-kind custom pieces, she created a limited edition collection, the Origami line, in 2019.

“It’s the next evolution of my collection to create reproducible fine color pieces,” she says. “I buy parcels of rough, rare materials that can be recut and reordered. They feature special baguettes in bracelets, hoops, necklaces and layering necklaces but still have very fine quality in unheated gems like morganite, tanzanite, green beryl and aquamarine. Fun fact: Morganite is a really amazing naturally pink gemstone named after JP Morgan.”

From a desk at JP Morgan to a jewelry collection with sparkling Morganite, Jetter has come full circle. She eventually found herself making jewelry by the sea in Nantucket, Massachusetts, where she opened her first retail location, The Vault Nantucket, in 2017. Her dream had become reality.

Discerning jewelry enthusiasts flock to the Nantucket shop and a second location in Boston, which debuted in 2021. The sleek, contemporary designs are fresh and timeless with clean lines and color that’s wearable for years to come –– and there are always new creations in the works.

This fall, she’s launching the Graffiti Collection, which she calls “painting with colored gemstones.” The pieces will feature opals, rubellite (a hot pink version of tourmaline), emerald, tanzanite, pink sapphire with unique enamel and rhodium hues.

“The enamel looks like it’s dripping like paint,” Jetter describes. “It’s different than people expect from me. There are 30 pieces and it’s a really fun line.”

Her two shops feature more than just Jetter’s designs; their display cases glitter with the work of talented creators who have become colleagues and friends over the years.

“The Vault is a curation of jewelry designers who are largely my close friends in the industry,” she explains. “We’ve done trade shows together and shared each other’s journey as designers. Jewelry is something that celebrates a moment in time –– a gift or a moment of celebration, passed on as an heirloom from generation to generation. There’s a lot of heart and meaning behind what we do. The Vault Nantucket is a very personal celebration of jewelry design.”

Arizonans who’d like to see and purchase her creations in person won’t have to travel far when Jetter debuts her collection at Carefree’s Grace Renee Gallery. She expects her vibrantly-hued pieces will fit right in, as both the gallery and The Vault Nantucket celebrate artists and focus on telling the designer's story, creating an experience for clients to connect with artists in a personal way.

“I love the mountain west,” Jetter says. “I think the colored gemstones I design will show beautifully in the Phoenix landscape and I’m excited to work with [Grace Renee Gallery owner] Shelly Spence and to be featured at the gallery.”

Experience Katherine Jetter

Jewelry is something that celebrates a moment in time –– a gift or a moment of celebration, passed on as an heirloom from generation to generation.

Katherine Jetter

Writer Shannon Severson Photography by Taylor Hill and 2 Diamond Photography

TThe genesis of blue jeans began thousands of miles away from the rugged wild west. Denim fabric can be traced to Nimes, France and the term “jeans” originally referred to Genoa, Italy –– the manufacturing hub for a durable, twilled cotton workwear fabric called ‘Genoa fustian.’

But the humble blue jean — which transcends age, social class and culture — is now synonymous the world over with the American West.

Here in Arizona, Matt and Amanda Kimes have put their own imprimatur on this timeless wardrobe staple with their Kimes Ranch brand. The couple founded the company on a shoestring budget in 2009 as Longhorn Jeans with the goal of creating a stylish, uncomplicated, great-fitting jean that would wear just as well working in the dirt or out to dinner with friends.

“Western is the foundation of denim,” Amanda says. “Our evolution in the western industry should be a natural progression that brands like Levi’s and Wrangler have taken. We have a classic fit that works for cowboys, but the focus of our brand has always been ‘western that transcends from the barn to the street.’”

They’ve built a loyal following among ranchers and riders since the beginning. Their reputation for attractive design, comfort, durability and best-inclass customer service soon spread to the mainstream as the line has expanded. Kimes Ranch recently experienced a publicity boost when their clothing appeared on popular TV series like UPtv’s “Heartland” and Paramount’s hit, “Yellowstone,” starring Kevin Costner.

“

“We make functional, beautiful clothing that is fashion forward while still remaining westernfriendly,” Amanda explains. “Shows like ‘Yellowstone’ have allowed western-focused trends to appear in the mainstream market. It is a great time to capitalize on that momentum by showing that audience how beautiful western culture can be.”

Kimes Ranch has steadily and strategically expanded its line to include woven wear, button-downs, tees, hats and outerwear –– including jackets, denim and polar fleece –– and a tech line that has taken off like a bull out of the chute.

“Our goal was to be a household name,” Amanda says. “We leaned into a western world where we had familiarity and now we are pushing a western lifestyle brand into street style. But we had to be good at jeans first.”

DENIM DREAMS

Amanda and Matt have deep roots in the western lifestyle. Both grew up in families with a history of ranching and riding –– Amanda grew up in Oregon native and Matt is a native Arizonan. When they first started dating, they would have “what-if talks” about their dream jobs.

We both grew up showing horses and we lived and worked in jeans all the time. We really thought we could bridge the gap of a jean that was versatile enough to be ridden in all day and then –– with a change of shoes ––could be worn out to dinner.

Amanda Kimes

“We both wanted to start a business and a brand that was really identifiable, like the Nike swoosh,” Amanda recalls. “We kept landing on jeans. We both grew up showing horses and we lived and worked in jeans all the time. We really thought we could bridge the gap of a jean that was versatile enough to be ridden in all day and then ––with a change of shoes –– could be worn out to dinner.”

They married in December of 2008 and one Tuesday in March 2009, both grew exasperated with their jobs. They playfully dispute who called whom with the words, “I can’t do this another day,” but they both felt it. By that Friday, they’d driven the 350 miles to Los Angeles’ garment district to peruse rolls of denim and meet with jobbers.

“We had to figure it out,” Amanda says. “We had no idea what we were doing. Matt had a Blackberry at the time and we would Google the questions the suppliers and jobbers were asking us and then give the answers. We both learn by doing. We didn’t go to fashion school; we had no background in the business at all, but we had to figure it out. We are still with the same manufacturers today.”

The pair invested everything they had in the business. A motorhome inherited from Amanda’s grandma became a home away from home for weeks at a time in Southern California. The least expensive –– and safest –– spot to stay in the Los Angeles metro area was an RV park in Malibu. Amanda says they would sit in the cutting room, learning and directing every detail of this dream that they’d poured their lives and finances into.

“We had our first goods within three months,” Amanda says. “We had 300 pairs of jeans in our hands and no idea what to do. We sold them out of our motorhome at horse shows and swap meets. As we became more reputable, we started going to wholesale shows, but that took years.”

Eventually, they had kids and were on the road for weeks at a time.

Matt and Amanda Kimes live on a working ranch here in the Valley with three children. Their Kimes Ranch brand embraces a family culture.

“How well we ate at night was dependent upon how many jeans we sold that day,” Amanda says. “We put most of it away to make more jeans. Those were really lean times for us.

“One year, we went to our first National Finals Rodeo, which is the creme de la creme of rodeo events. It was ten days long. We sold ten jeans a day at $100 each the first day. Our goal was to sell 30 pairs in a day. We did it on the last Saturday and our splurge was dinner at Pink’s Hot Dog Stand. We paid more to park than we did for the hot dogs.”

EMBLEMATIC OF THE AMERICAN WEST

The turning point came in 2014. Lindsay Perraton was hired as marketing director and she suggested a name change to Kimes Ranch. Putting their family name on the product was the start of a huge momentum shift. The company grew 150% in 2020 and, in 2021, growth was up to 200%.

While they can’t out-market big-name brands with flashy commercials, they excel in quality and customer service that includes a no-questions-asked replacement policy that has fostered a loyal clientele.

Matt designs and oversees the men’s line while the women’s line is Amanda’s purview.

“We stay in our own lanes,” Amanda says with a chuckle.

They live on a working ranch here in the Valley with three children and collaborate closely with their Arizonabased team as well as a design team in Los Angeles. The company truly embraces a family culture and that has been enthusiastically accepted by its customer base.

When asked if she had a favorite jean, Amanda couldn’t choose.

“Our jeans are like children,” she says. “I can’t choose a favorite. We probably have 15 women’s styles and nine for men. We can’t discontinue any one style because our customers are so loyal to their favorites. Our customers are always coming to us with ideas. We take our customer feedback very seriously. Our customers feel like we made something just for them.”

The jeans –– with names like Betty, Jolene, Wayne and Cal –– likely propel the customer feeling that they’re in a relationship with their favorite jeans and wouldn’t want to abandon one style for another.

That connection and family feel are something consumers are yearning for today –– even those who didn’t grow up in the saddle –– and Kimes Ranch has positioned itself well to serve that desire.

“There has been a push for people to go back to their roots and the western lifestyle is really popular,” Amanda says. “People want to go back to it. It’s a part of our culture that is important and valued.”

Matt and Amanda have certainly found that sweet spot of flair and functionality –– designed in Arizona and emblematic of an American West spirit that’s alive and well.

Chocolate Sprinkle Sugar Cookies

Writer and Photographer Francine Coles thefancypantskitchen.com

Do you think that these cookies are bright enough? They just scream, “Eat me!” So we did!

Before I photographed them, I ate three or four. My guy ate two or three. He was very disciplined. Then my brother-in-law, Gene, ate two or three, my sister, Robyn, ate two or three and, before we knew it, they were all gone.

They are so delicious that they disappear very quickly!

Directions:

Makes: 25–30 cookies

Ingredients:

1-3/4 cups plus 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

1/2 cup dutch process cocoa powder

3/4 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon salt

1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature

1-1/3 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar

1 egg, at room temperature

1 teaspoon vanilla bean paste or vanilla extract

Sprinkles, for rolling

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Line three baking trays with parchment paper. In a medium bowl, sift together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy, 3–4 minutes. Add egg and vanilla, then beat until combined. Add flour and cocoa mixture, then beat on low until just incorporated.

Using a cookie scoop, scoop 2 tablespoons of mixture at a time. Roll each scoop into a ball using your hands, then roll generously in sprinkles. Place on baking trays, leaving plenty of room to spread — about eight cookies per tray.

Bake one tray at a time for 11–12 minutes, until the cookies have puffed up and are beginning to crack on the tops and the edges are set. Remove from oven and allow to cool for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.