Artlink keeps the arts integral to our development by connecting artists, businesses and the community. Founded as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization by artists in 1989, the Artlink name is a guiding principle for the organization, as it supports stakeholders of the arts and culture community, amplifying its collective strength. For more information about Artlink, please visit artlinkphx.org/. Connect socially with Artlink on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
Artlink Board of Directors & Staff
History
Artlink Inc. was officially formed in 1989 following the first Art Detour open studios tour in 1988, Phoenix’s original art walk event. Art Detour has since grown into a multi-day self-guided tour of galleries, studios and businesses in various neighborhoods in and around downtown Phoenix, giving Valley residents and visitors an opportunity to see an array of local, national, and international talent.
In 1994, Artlink began promoting the monthly First Fridays art walk, which has grown to become one of the largest monthly art walks in the United States. With many venues open free to the public each month, First Fridays has succeeded in bringing people back to downtown Phoenix. The event sees anywhere from 14-20,000 visitors monthly and grows each year. Third Fridays came years later, and is sometimes referred to as “Gallery Night,” due to the number of exhibition openings that take place.
To this day, the Artlink name is a guiding principal for the mission of keeping the arts integral to development by connecting artists, business and community.
