Art d’Core Gala Celebrates 30 Years of Art Detour

SIXTH ANNUAL ART D’CORE GALA CELEBRATES 30 YEARS OF
ART DETOUR WITH A SHOWCASE OF ACCLAIMED PHOENIX-AREA ARTISTS AND EMERGING ARTIST INVITATIONAL
Mayor Greg Stanton to give annual ‘Toast to Downtown,’ his last as Mayor of Phoenix
Tickets are now available on Eventbrite.
The sixth annual Art d’Core Gala will feature a one-night-only exhibition of works by 13 members of the Artlink Artist Council (AAC) paired with works by 13 emerging artists to kick off the 30th Annual Art Detour. The evening celebration of the Phoenix arts and culture community, will take place 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 15, at Warehouse 215 at Bentley Projects, 215 E. Grant St. This creative spin on a traditional gala is hosted by Artlink Inc. in partnership with the City of Phoenix and Downtown Phoenix Inc. and serves as opening night to an Art Detour event that has grown to an expanded six-day, multi-faceted exploration of Phoenix’s arts and culture.
A brief program celebrating the arts and culture community’s contribution to the development of a dynamic downtown Phoenix will be capped by Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton’s annual “Toast to Downtown,” his last as Phoenix Mayor. In 2017, Mayor Stanton spoke to this contribution by stating, “If you love our downtown…it’s because the artists were here first. They made it for us.” Art Detour 30 embraces this history by spotlighting each of Phoenix’s arts districts that have developed as a result of an engaged arts community.
Artlink Artist Council/Emerging Artist Invitational Exhibition at Art d’Core Gala
The AAC is comprised of Arizona-based, established professional artists who have worked 10 years or more in exhibiting and/or producing exhibitions that shine a spotlight on Phoenix. One of the goals of the AAC, created in 2017, is to provide a platform for these professional artists to share their experience with emerging artists, as peer mentors.
In the spirit of this collaboration, this year, each member of the AAC has chosen an up-and-coming artist to be included in the one-night Art d’Core Gala exhibition, doubling the amount of artwork on view in comparison to last year’s event. Works by the following artists will be on view and for sale during the Art d’Core Gala celebration:
- Marilyn Szabo and Hunter Zelner
- Joe Ray and Armondo Williams
- Randy Slack and Megan Koth
- Joan Baron and Heather Couch
- William Legoullon and Blake Quinn
- Christine Cassano and Cydnei Mallory
- Bill Dambrova and Eric B Jones
- Pete Deise and Sam Fresquez
- Patricia Sannit and Amy Manning
- Constance McBride and Dani Godreau
- Rembrandt Quiballo and Malena Barnhart
- Annie Lopez and Katie Owens
- Fortoul Brothers and Elizabeth Brice-Heames
The featured art for Art Detour 30, “Salud” by Phoenix artist Michael Viglietta, will also be on display. DJ Rani G will provide the entertainment for the festive evening that includes art, music, dancing and a no host bar. The “Detour” portion of the six-day event begins the following day on Friday, March 16 with tours of arts districts tours and other special events that showcase the culture of the nation’s fifth largest city. See more about the expansion of Art Detour here.
“The invitational exhibition embodies the spirit of Phoenix’s artist community as we kick off the 30th anniversary of Art Detour,” said Artlink President Catrina Kahler. “This special opening night will honor our city’s rich cultural history, point to a bright future, and extend an invitation to all to experience the six-day, 30-year milestone celebration.”
Tickets are $20 per person, $30 per couple and are available until 6 p.m. March 14 at artdetour.com. Tickets will be available at the door day-of for $25 per person, $40 per couple. Event is open to the public. Come as you are; creative cocktail attire encouraged.
The Art d’Core Gala event is a fundraiser for Artlink Inc., an active all-volunteer 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, with a portion of the proceeds dedicated to The Artist Forward Fund (TAFF) a new artist development fund designed to help provide direct financial support to local artists.
Purchase tickets on Eventbrite.
MORE INFORMATION:
- IMAGES: Download media images of Art d’Core graphics and featured Art d’Core Gala artwork by Artlink Artist Council and partner artists here. All images are courtesy of the artists and are for promotional use only.
- ATTEND: Purchase your Art d’Core Gala tickets here – get them before the sell out!
- LEARN MORE: Artists and business who would like to learn more about participating in Art Detour 30 are urged to attend the Artlink Mixed Media Happy Hour from 5:30-7:30 pm on Thursday, February 22, 2018 at Desoto Central Market. Register here.
- PLAN your Art Detour 30 – see a day-by-day schedule of events here!
- FOLLOW Artlink to stay up to date on Art Detour 30 events, calls for art work, exhibition information and art tours around downtown Phoenix: Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About Art Detour:
Art Detour is Produced by Artlink Inc. in partnership with City of Phoenix Mayor’s Office and Office of Arts & Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc. (DPI), and support from Phoenix Convention Center, Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, Valley Metro, AZCentral/The Arizona Republic, City of Phoenix Public Works Department, City of Phoenix Water Services Department, Muse Apartments, Legends Entertainment District, and Warehouse215. District and programming partners include Roosevelt Row CDC, Phoenix Warehouse District, Central Arts District, Historic Grand Avenue, and also Modern Phoenix Week, Phoenix Urban Design Week, and On Central Fashion + Art Weekend and the Artlink Artist Council (AAC). The new six-day event format of the event will kick off with the opening night Art d’Core Gala celebration; span the weekend with a scheduled exploration of key arts districts and artist studios; and end with a symposium that will spur interest in art collecting, foster artists’ career development, and identify actionable items to create a culturally rich and economically diverse city. For more details on how to sponsor, see this link.
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events and initiatives, including complimentary trolley tours during the monthly First Friday and Third Friday Art Walks, The Artist Forward Fund, Phoenix Urban Guide, and the annual Art Detour, Art d’Core Gala and Juried Exhibition. Formed as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1989, Artlink is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, and works in partnership with Roosevelt Row CDC, Phoenix Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit www.artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
All Are Invited to Celebrate and Articipate in Art Detour 30

30th Anniversary of Art Detour is March 15-20, 2018
Signature Celebration of Phoenix Arts and Culture Expands to Six Days
All are invited to create and Articipate!
Art Detour, Phoenix’s original art walk and the longest running arts festival in downtown Phoenix, will celebrate its 30-year anniversary March 15-20, 2018. The annual event, produced by Artlink Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit, was launched by Phoenix artists in 1989 and helped birth the First Fridays phenomenon. Referred to as “one of the most important events on Phoenix’s calendar“ by Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, Art Detour 30 will expand to a six-day schedule, and feature a multi-faceted exploration of the arts and culture of America’s fifth-largest city.
The community is invited to detour through the city and celebrate our artistic surroundings over a delightful weekend of cultural discovery. Patrons can meet artists in their working environments, start or expand their art collection, immerse themselves in downtown’s diverse arts districts, and discuss the impact of the arts on the next 30 years of our city’s development. Detour-ists will be invited to step into more than 100 artist studios, galleries, pop-up spaces and other venues, as well as enjoy performances and family-friendly activities.
NEW Event Schedule: The new six-day event format will kick off with the opening night Art d’Core Gala celebration; span the weekend with a scheduled exploration of key arts districts and artist studios; and end with a symposium that will spur interest in art collecting, foster artists’ career development, and identify actionable items to create a culturally rich and economically diverse city.
NEW Artist Opportunities: In addition to a call for representative work for Art Detour 30. Artlink Inc., Downtown Phoenix, Inc. and Phoenix’s Street Transportation Department and Office of Arts and Culture invite artists and designers of all practices to apply for the Pedal to the Metal: Phoenix Bike Rack Project. The artists selected from this call will create new designs for bicycle racks to be placed throughout Phoenix. A selection of submissions will be featured in an exhibition during Art Detour weekend. View calls to artists here.
How Can You Get Involved?
Articipate! Artists (student, emerging, professional) are encouraged to register as an Artlink Articipant to be included in the Artlink Directory, which will be promoted throughout Art Detour 30. Downtown Phoenix-based galleries, arts businesses, and arts-supporting businesses that register as an Articipant will be identified on the official Art Detour 30 map. Read the registration details here.
Current Artist Opportunities:
Artists of all mediums and experience are invited to contribute to the festivities by submitting to calls to artists. Current opportunities include the following:
- Art Detour Poster Art: Artists are invited to submit an open call for Art Detour 30 poster art. The call is free to Artlink Articipants. Find submission details here.
Pedal to the Metal: PHX Bike Rack Project: Artlink Inc., Downtown Phoenix, Inc. and Phoenix’s Street Transportation Department and Office of Arts and Culture invite artists and designers of all practices to apply for the Pedal to the Metal: Phoenix Bike Rack Project. Read the details of the call here.
Sponsor: Support the year-round efforts of Artlink Inc. by becoming a sponsor of Art Detour. Review sponsorship details here.
Volunteer: Contribute your time to the arts! Sign up to be a tour docent, gallery host or help with guest relations. Sign up here.
EVENT FACTS
When: Thursday, March 15 through Tuesday, March 20, 2018
Where: More than 100 artist studios, galleries, arts and culture venues and arts-supporting businesses in the greater downtown Phoenix area.
Hosts: Art Detour 30 is produced by Artlink Inc., a 501(c)3 nonprofit, in partnership with the City of Phoenix Office of Arts & Culture and Downtown Phoenix Inc. and in collaboration with Roosevelt Row CDC, Historic Grand Avenue, Phoenix Warehouse District and Central Arts District.
Getting Around: Artlink provides maps and transportation options for easy navigation of the Detour. Printed maps and an online map powered by Phoenix Urban Guide (phoenixurbanguide.com) will guide patrons through the six-day event. Artlink will provide complimentary docent-guided trolleys from transportation partner Dunn Transportation on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. The event is also easily accessible by Valley Metro’s Light Rail and GRiD Bikes.
Contact: General event questions: info@artlinkphx.org. Calls for artists questions: submissions@artlinkphx.org. Artlink Inc.: artlinkphx.org. Sign up for updates: artdetour.com.
EVENT SCHEDULE BY DAY
THURSDAY, MARCH 15: 6th ANNUAL ART D’CORE GALA
The opening night celebration is a fun spin on a traditional “gala” that each year spotlights the significant contribution of the arts in creating a dynamic city.
The event will showcase works by members of the Artlink Artist Council (AAC): Joan Baron, Christine Cassano, Bill Dambrova, Pete Deise, Fortoul Brothers, William LeGoullon, Annie Lopez, Constance McBride, Rembrandt Quiballo, Joe Ray, Patricia Sannit, Randy Slack, and Marilyn Szabo. Additional artists are to be announced.
A portion of proceeds from the sale of exhibited artwork will benefit Artlink and will be allocated to The Artist Forward Fund (TAFF), a program produced by Artlink in collaboration with the AAC for the purpose of providing direct financial benefit to local artists.
When: 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 15, 2018
Where: Warehouse215 at Bentley Projects 215 E. Grant St., Phoenix
Hosts: The Art d’Core Gala is hosted Artlink Inc. in partnership with the Office of the Mayor, City of Phoenix Office of Arts & Culture, and Downtown Phoenix Inc.
Tickets: $20/single, $30/pair. Proceeds benefit Artlink Inc., a 501c3 nonprofit. Find ticket information at artdetour.com and sign up for updates.
FRIDAY-SUNDAY, MARCH 16-18: THE “DETOUR”
Patrons are invited to embark on a weekend schedule of arts experiences within key arts districts. More details to be announced!
- Friday, March 16 – Roosevelt Row Arts District
- Saturday, March 17 (day) – Historic Grand Avenue
- Saturday, March 17 (evening) – Downtown Phoenix core
- Sunday, March 18 – Phoenix Warehouse District + surrounding area studio tours
MONDAY-TUESDAY, MARCH 19-20: NEW! SYMPOSIUM
Save the date for the new symposium series. Details to be announced.
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events and initiatives, including complimentary trolley tours during the monthly First Friday and Third Friday Art Walks, The Artist Forward Fund, Phoenix Urban Guide, and the annual Art Detour, Art d’Core Gala and Juried Exhibition. Formed as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in 1989, Artlink is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, Dunn Transportation, and works in partnership with Roosevelt Row CDC, Phoenix Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit www.artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Call to Artists: Art Detour 30 Poster Art

ARTLINK SEEKS IMAGE FOR ART DETOUR 30 POSTER ART
UPDATE: Deadline extended to Friday, December 22.
Artlink Inc. seeks a representative artwork for Art Detour 30. The work will be used in a designed format as the basis for the Art Detour 30 poster, postcard, and other marketing materials. Artists local to the Phoenix area are encouraged to apply for this award that carries a $300 honorarium.
ABOUT ART DETOUR
Art Detour is Phoenix’s original art walk and the longest running arts festival weekend in Downtown Phoenix.
The annual event began in 1989, and is a roadmap to guide visitrs to meet artists in their working environments, celebrate the growth of our varied arts districts, and set a stage for discussion about the next 30 years of our city’s development. Step into more than 100 artist studios, galleries and other venues, as well as enjoy performances and activities.
The 30-year celebration will be a six-day, multi-faceted exploration of the arts and culture of America’s fifth-largest city. The schedule will include an opening night Art d’Core Gala on March 15; the “Detour” that will highlight arts experiences and studio visits within key arts districts on March 16-18; and on March 19-20, a new Symposium that will support artists’ career development and identify actionable items to create a culturally rich and economically diverse city. Location/Schedule to be announced. Visit artdetour.com for details.
GENERAL GUIDELINES
Art Detour invites the public to discover the downtown Phoenix arts community by offering premiere access to downtown artists and art experiences.
The submitted artwork should help Artlink in celebrating the arts community’s growth over the past 30 years and embody the sense of discovery that the public experiences visiting private working studios and art spaces.
Specifications:
- The submitted artwork must be a flat work (can be photography of the 3D piece) in any size and medium – but versatile enough to be represented digitally in a variety of paper and electronic collateral. These include the poster, postcards, map and online communications (varied dimensions).
- The artist will be invited to exhibit the original artwork at the Art d’Core Gala on Thursday, March 15th.
- Artlink will retain all rights to use work in any manner chosen.
- Artlink may choose to use work on commercial goods for sale during the time of the events. The artist will receive a royalty of 20% for any goods sold.
- The artist’s work will be used by designers to format the poster with text and other information about Detour. The original artwork will remain the property of the artist.
Eligibility: Any artist currently living and working in Arizona.
Deadline for submissions: Friday, December 22, 2017 (midnight)
The work will be chosen and the announcement made on Thursday, December 28, 2017.
The Artlink board reserves the right to change the project timeline.
HOW TO APPLY
Artists interested in this project must prepare and submit the following:
- A high quality digital representation of the piece. Minimum 300dpi. This should be a JPG, TIFF or PNG file.
- A brief statement about why the submitted images fit the theme.
- A maximum of three works.
- Titles, dates of completion, materials used in the original work, and size.
- Current contact information.
Questions about the call may be sent to submissions@artlinkphx.org.
Release: Artlink Announces New Third Friday Trolley Tour

Free trolley will operate monthly in addition to First Friday Trolley Tour
Artlink is excited to announce a new complimentary Third Friday Trolley Tour that will operate in addition to its First Friday Tours. With one additional tour each month, art lovers will find it even easier to access Phoenix’s arts districts and destinations. The Third Friday trolley will circulate between Roosevelt Row and the Historic Grand Avenue Arts Districts, and the downtown Phoenix core, with periodic stops along the route. Patrons will be invited to hop-on hop-off where they choose, with an invitation to vsit galleries and cultural venues such as Modified Arts, eye lounge, {9} The Gallery, the new Sisao at Oasis on Grand or the Herberger Gallery at Arizona Center. Volunteer docents will staff the trolleys, providing information on the night’s arts and culture offerings. The trolleys will operate between 6 p.m. and 9 p.m. each third Friday, effective Friday, November 17, 2017.
See a map of the new route here.

Photo by Kyle Field
Each circuit will take approximately 25 minutes to travel it in its entirety. The trolleys, provided by Dunn Transportation, Artlink’s official transportation partner, have been serving First Fridays for several years, with over 6,000 riders hopping aboard last year.
“We are encouraged by the growing demand for the arts in Phoenix and are thrilled to work with our district partners and Dunn Transportation to connect patrons to the increasingly popular arts and culture offerings one more night each month,” said Artlink Board President Catrina Kahler. “Third Friday has long been considered the more arts-centric version of Phoenix’s Fridays by arts enthusiasts and we look forward to introducing the night to a new audience.”
The route is now permanent for all Third Fridays with a similar version scheduled for March Third Friday during Art Detour 30, Artlink’s annual multi-day celebration of the arts’ influence in developing the America’s fifth-largest city. More details about Art Detour 30, March 15-20, will be announced at www.artdetour.com.
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the annual Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit www.artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Release: Artlink Introduces New Artist Access

Artlink Introduces New Opportunities for Artists to Engage in the Arts Community
‘Articipation’ Options to Lower Economic Barriers, Further Develop an Artist Directory and More
Artlink Inc., a Phoenix-based nonprofit whose mission is to keep the arts integral to the development of our city, announces new “Articipation” opportunities to fully embrace the Phoenix artist community and further support their pursuit of successful careers in Phoenix.
Coinciding with the upcoming 30th anniversary of Art Detour March 15-20, 2018, Artlink’s new offerings seek to both lower the economic barriers of engagement and to expand definitions of participation to better serve the artist community.
All working artists are invited to register and may choose to engage at one of the following Articipation levels:
- All Access: This turnkey option for visual and performing artists includes complimentary Artlink artist call submissions, a listing in the Artlink Artist Directory powered by Phoenix Urban Guide, tickets to Artlink’s Art d’Core Gala on March 15, 2018, and other opportunities as they arise. ($60 annual registration fee. Students with a school ID receive a discounted $24 rate.)
- Artist Studio: A new option specifically designed for those artists who open their studios located within the central Phoenix area, depicted by a dot on the official First Friday map, Art Detour map and on PhoenixUrbanGuide.com. These artists also receive the benefits provided in the All Access level above. ($60 annual registration fee.)
- À la Carte: A new option for artists who want to be included in the Artlink Artist Directory, a showcase of all artists that will be actively promoted to businesses and the public. (No annual registration fee. Fees for optional calls, Gala tickets and other opportunities apply.)
“We are dedicated to the development of the arts in our changing city,” says Catrina Kahler, Artlink Board President. “With the upcoming 30-year landmark Art Detour event, it is a priority to ensure that we are meeting the needs of artists and continue to connect them with business opportunities and promote their work to entire community.”
Since 1989, Artlink has supported a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the Artlink Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Phoenix Urban Guide.
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; The Artist Forward Fund (TAFF); a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the Artlink Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Phoenix Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit www.artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
PUG Introduction + Mixed Media Happy Hour

Join us for a kick-off to the 2017-2018 arts season!
Invitation to Phoenix Nonprofit Arts & Culture Organizations:
The Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture has partnered with Artlink in the development of a a centralized arts and culture events calendar. We’re offering a hands-on orientation of this new marketing tool powered by Phoenix Urban Guide (PUG). If you are a nonprofit representative working with the City of Phoenix, please RSVP here.
Time for Mixed Media Happy Hour!
We’re heading to FOUND:RE Phoenix for an evening of mixing & mingling while enjoying featured bar & bites specials. Artists, art venues, business and community members who support the Phoenix arts scene are all invited! RSVP here.
From the 2017 Artlink Annual Meeting

Artlink’s 2017 Annual meeting was held on Wednesday, June 14, at Phoenix Art Museum. The Artlink board welcomed 110 attendees, including artists, arts advocates, and representatives of the City of Phoenix, galleries, performing arts, and other arts organizations.
Present Board Members: Catrina Kahler (President), Sally Russell (Vice President), Dan Clevenger (Secretary), Rick Naimark (Treasurer), Constance McBride (Arts Committee Chair), Hillary Foose, Bentley Calverley, Nicole Underwood, Margaree Bigler (PR Committee Chair), and Rembrandt Quiballo. Not present: Jerry Harper and Brittany Butler.
Welcome
The meeting opened with a video introduction of Artlink, followed by a welcome from Artlink board member Margaree Bigler, representative of Phoenix Art Museum. Margaree introduced honored guest, Amada Cruz, Sybil Harrington Director and CEO of Phoenix Art Museum.
Amada congratulated Artlink on the pending 30-year anniversary Art Detour and lauded the hard work of community investment in the urban core over that time. Upon coming to Phoenix, she asked who “owned hip” in the Valley and it was very clear that it was downtown. The reason Phoenix Art Museum is thriving is because of all the hard work invested by those here; it takes this ecosystem of people to make a city great. The Museum is thrilled to be partners and looks forward to the next 30 years.
Board Elections
Artlink President Catrina Kahler proceeded with the meeting, beginning with the election of the 2017-2018 Board of Directors. Thanks were given to past board members Jill Bernstein, Sarah Levi and Mark Scarp who stepped down from the board earlier this year. Bernstein had served on the board since 2011. The board thanks them for their significant contributions.
By unanimous vote, the Artlink board renewed the terms of three directors:
- Constance McBride: Artist
- Jerry Harper: Phoenix Convention Center, deputy director
- Brittany Butler: Artist/Oasis on Grand, marketing director
This rounds out the current roster of the Artlink board:
- Catrina Kahler, President: Urban Affair president and founder
- Sarah “Sally” Russell: Frank Lloyd Wright Foundation, Associate Product Manager-Licensing
- Dan Clevenger, Secretary: Westlake Reed Leskosky project designer/architect
- Rick Naimark: ASU, associate vice president for program development planning
- Hillary Foose: Valley Metro, communication and marketing director
- Bentley Calverley: Bentley Gallery, owner
- Nicole Underwood: Javelina, senior associate
- Margaree Bigler: Phoenix Art Museum, marketing and communications manager
- Rembrandt Quiballo: Artist
Annual Report
Catrina provided an overview to the organization statistics included in a “by the numbers” annual report that reflected the past year’s work of Artlink, an organization whose operations are managed by a volunteer board of directors. The report includes the number of Art d’Core Gala attendees (600+); the Juried Exhibition sales ($16K) and awards given to artists from Artlink ($7750); the growing number of Mixed Media attendees (150+); and the number of submissions to artist calls (471).
The next Mixed Media Happy Hour will be scheduled in July.
The board expressed its gratitude to Downtown Phoenix Inc., for its partnership in printing First Friday maps.
Catrina introduced Artlink Treasurer Rick Naimark who reported on Artlink’s 2016-2017 finances. The emphasis on this year’s budget was on one-time investments that included Phoenix Urban Guide development and an updated brand and logo for the organization. The annual budget is approximately $75,000 to $80,000, much of which composed of sponsorships, grants and in-kind contributions. Articipant fees account for one percent of the budget. Artlink will be looking at ways to connect with organizations who are interested in connecting with artists.
The Artist Forward Fund (TAFF)
Catrina introduced the new TAFF program. Artlink allocated $500 to the initial grant and is looking to make a long term commitment to the fund and its growth.
As a step in this direction, it was announced that For the People owners, Shawn Silberblatt and Chad Campbell, agreed to sponsor the new program by matching this initial grant, bringing the total grant funds to $1000.
Catrina introduced Vice President Sally Russell and Arts Committee Chair Constance McBride. Sally spoke to the importance of TAFF as a means of supporting artists. Constance emphasized the need for the arts community to grow along with the city. TAFF represents a new way to support, and mentor, artists.
The Artlink Artist Council (AAC) was formed from a diverse group of established professional artists: Julie Anand, Joan Baron, Christine Cassano, Bill Dambrova, Peter Deise, Isaac Fortoul, Gabriel Fortoul, Frank Gonzales, Annie Lopez, William LeGoullon, Ann Morton, Joe Ray, Patricia Sannit, Randy Slack, Marilyn Szabo.
Constance introduced AAC member Joan Baron to announce the recipient of the first TAFF grant, Ashley Czajkowski. Ashley expressed her thanks and looks forward to the mentorship opportunity.

Left to right: Rembrandt Quiballo, Constance McBride, Shawn Silberblatt, Chad Campbell, Ashley Czajkowski, Joan Baron, Sally Russell, Christine Cassano. Photo: Kyle Field.
Phoenix Urban Guide (PUG)
Approximately 75% of the attendees were familiar with PUG. Catrina spoke briefly to the functionality of the site and the opportunity for both artists and arts destinations to upload their exhibition information. Artlink is partnering with the Phoenix Office of Arts & Culture on the development of the new calendar function, which will represent a single connected voice for the arts and culture community. Nicole Pasteur, representative of the Office of the Mayor, was in attendance and recognized for the City’s support of Artlink.
Art Detour 30
Artlink originated from the Art Detour event, which will celebrate its 30th anniversary in 2018. It’s not just an event for the public; it creates connectivity and community within the arts and culture community.
The dates for Art Detour 30 will be on the Third Friday weekend in March 2018: The Art d’Core Gala will once again be an opening night event on Thursday, March 15; Friday through Sunday will be the “Detour”; and Monday/Tuesday will be a series of symposiums that will focus on artist career development and the intersection between the arts and the community at large.
Planning for the weekend Detour may evolve so that the event activity and promotion can be more focused. Each day presents an opportunity to focus on a specific district.
The 30 year logo was unveiled with an invitation to everyone to suggest topics for the symposiums planned for the event.
A question was asked about trolley service during the weekend. The trolleys will likely run Friday through Sunday but the programming plan needs to further develop.
The goal of Art Detour 30 is to further establish Phoenix on the national arts and culture map. To do this, there is a need to focus on the quality of art, as well as the number of artists and the quantity of arts experiences.
A question was asked about the timing of Art Detour on the same weekend as Mesa’s Spark Festival. Artlink was pressed in recent years to maintain a consistent Art Detour weekend and committed to the Third Friday weekend. Artlink is interested in connecting Phoenix and Mesa, and finding a regional connection. Other comments referenced events such as Art Basel and Vivid that build energy and create geographical cohesiveness by connecting arts events happening in multiple areas of a city. Dorina Bustamante, representing Downtown Phoenix Inc., spoke to the opportunity to connect and become more of a national draw. Catrina confirmed that Artlink is open to collaboration.
Acknowledgements
Thanks to West Elm, a national retailer that supports local artists and is opening at Uptown Plaza, at Central and Camelback, on June 29. On June 28, there will be a pre-grand opening event and a portion of the proceeds with benefit Artlink.
Special recognition was given to Leslie Criger, who serves as operations support for Artlink, acting as Articipant liaison, and volunteer coordinator.
Artlink is making a commitment to pursue grants so that it may grow with energetic and skilled staff that will support the growth of the organization moving forward.
Release: Artlink Announces Inaugural TAFF Recipient

Artlink Announces Inaugural Grant Recipient of ‘The Artist Forward Fund’
Exhibition, Mentorship and $1000 Awarded to Ashley Czajkowski
‘For the People’ Partners with Artlink to Double Grant Amount
PHOENIX – Artlink Inc., in collaboration with the recently-formed Artlink Artist Council (AAC), is pleased to announce Ashley Czajkowski as the first grant recipient of The Artist Forward Fund (TAFF). The announcement was made at Artlink’s 2017 Annual Meeting on June 14 at Phoenix Art Museum. Czajkowski will receive financial support, a space to hold an exhibition, and mentoring from AAC members.

Left to right: Rembrandt Quiballo, Constance McBride, Shawn Silberblatt, Chad Campbell, Ashley Czajkowski, Joan Baron, Sally Russell, Christine Cassano. Photo: Kyle Field.
Formed in February of 2017, the AAC has identified key areas where the Council, which is comprised of professional artists, can provide support to emerging artists: mentoring, exhibition planning, sharing connections/networking support, portfolio review and practical advice on mounting exhibitions. AAC sought an artist recipient demonstrating potential in their practice through risk-taking and pushing their work in dynamic ways, who is at a critical juncture in their career when this support would be most impactful.
“TAFF is not just important for the growth of individual artists that win the prize, it is a critical step towards moving the downtown arts scene to the next level,” said artist Bill Dambrova, member of the AAC. “One of many priorities of the Artlink Artist Council is to encourage and support Artlink to find and identify an exhibition venue that matches the level of sophistication and quality of work made by the winner to show in.”
“Our first winner, Ashley Czajkowski epitomizes the type of artist that will most benefit from this award. As an incredibly innovative installation artist, the space she shows in is crucial to the presentation of her work,” said Dambrova.
A total of 44 artists responded to the inaugural call, submitting a number of original works and a statement of need for AAC panel review.
“The AAC members were challenged to select just one artist to receive the fund,” said Constance McBride, Artlink Arts Committee Chair. “We were encouraged by the large amount of quality work submitted for the first TAFF call, and even more enthusiastic about where this collaboration can lead.”
Members of the AAC are: Julie Anand, Joan Baron, Christine Cassano, Bill Dambrova, Peter Deise, Isaac Fortoul, Gabriel Fortoul, Frank Gonzales, Annie Lopez, William LeGoullon, Ann Morton, Joe Ray, Patricia Sannit, Randy Slack, Marilyn Szabo. These established professional artists have worked 10 years or more in exhibiting and/or producing exhibitions that shine a spotlight on Phoenix; represent the diverse cultural identity of our city; and have contributed significant time/energy to either Art Detour/Artlink and/or partner initiatives that strive to elevate the profile of Phoenix’s creative community.
The initial call posted a $500 award provided by Artlink. In a show of support for the program, local retailer For the People, which specializes in functional modern design from local and global makers, agreed to match the funds, bringing the inaugural award amount up to $1000.
“The inaugural TAFF call is bringing about a number of collaborations that demonstrate Artlink’s mission of connecting artists, business and community,” said Catrina Kahler, Artlink Board President. “We thank everyone who contributed to the fund, including For the People owners Shawn Silberblatt and Chad Campbell. We congratulate Ashley and look forward to working with her and the AAC in developing a fall exhibition of her work.”
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; The Artist Forward Fund (TAFF); a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the annual Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Phoenix Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit www.artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
# # #
Artlink Annual Meeting

Artlink Inc. will host its 2017 Annual Meeting, Wednesday, June 14, at Phoenix Art Museum.
The Artlink Board of Directors invites Phoenix arts community stakeholders to join Artlink Articipants and volunteers to learn about the organization’s plans for the coming year.
The agenda includes:
- Welcome Remarks by the Sybil Harrington Director and CEO of Phoenix Art Museum, Amada Cruz
- The announcement of Artlink’s inaugural TAFF award recipient as selected by the Artlink Artist Council
- Dates and information for the 30th Annual Art Detour in March 2018
- Update on the 19th Annual Juried Exhibition
- Update on Artlink’s trolley program
Be a part of the discussion and contribute the future of Phoenix arts community.
Event: Artlink Annual Meeting
When: Wednesday, June 14, 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Where: Phoenix Art Museum – Singer Hall (Administration Bldg.), 1625 N. Central
Register Here (this will help expedite the check-in process):
Artlink Announces Call for ‘Artist Forward’ Grant Applications

Artlink Inc. is now accepting applications from Arizona-based artists for its inaugural grant program: The Artist Forward Fund (TAFF). The deadline for applications is midnight May 31, 2017 Mountain Standard Time (MST).
The program, originally announced at the 2017 Art d’Core Gala during Art Detour 29, is produced by Artlink in collaboration with a group of prominent professional artists who are serving on the newly formed Artlink Artist Council (AAC): Julie Anand, Joan Baron, Christine Cassano, Bill Dambrova, Peter Deise, Jeff Falk, Isaac Fortoul, Gabriel Fortoul, Frank Gonzales, Annie Lopez, William LeGoullon, Ann Morton, Joe Ray, Patricia Sannit, Randy Slack, Marilyn Szabo. These established professional artists have worked 10 years or more in exhibiting and/or producing exhibitions that shine a spotlight on Phoenix; represent the diverse cultural identity of our city; and have contributed significant time/energy to either Art Detour/Artlink and/or partner initiatives that strive to elevate the profile of Phoenix’s creative community.
Submitted grant applications will be reviewed by the AAC along with members of Artlink’s Board of Directors.
The selected grant recipient will receive a $500 grant and/or the opportunity for an exhibition facilitated by Artlink. Additionally, members of the AAC will provide mentorship to selected artist(s).
The artist recipient will be someone who demonstrates potential in their practice through risk-taking and pushing their work in dynamic ways. It will be someone who is at a critical juncture in their career when this support would be most impactful.
“We’re excited about helping artists in such a direct way,” said Catrina Kahler, Artlink Board President. “This is not only financial support, but mentorship from professional artists who have been living and working in the area for years. They are excited to share what they have learned and we are looking forward to seeing the results of this innovative collaboration.”
SUBMISSION DETAILS
The following media will be accepted for submission: oil, watercolor, acrylic, graphite, charcoal, pastels, photography, ceramics, printmaking, textile, mixed media, video, installation, and sculpture/three dimensional pieces. Additional criteria:
- Artist must be at least 18 years old.
- Artist must based in Arizona and working and/or contributing to the Downtown Phoenix Art Scene.
- Artists who have been selected in past Artlink calls to artists are permitted to submit.
- A collective of multiple artists is eligible to apply, but must be creating work as a singular artist identity.
The online submission deadline is May 31, by midnight (MST).
Artlink Articipants may enter free of charge. Articipants click here to submit.
Artists who aren’t registered as Articipants will pay a $15 submission fee. Non-Articipants click here to submit.
Want to skip the fees for this and future calls? Learn more about becoming a year-round Articipant here.
Email with any questions to submissions@artlinkphx.org. Please reference “TAFF Call” in your email subject line when submitting questions.
FAQ
Why is there a fee to submit?
The fees helps to support the administration of all Artlink efforts in supporting local artists. This includes a variety of year-round opportunities to promote, exhibit and sell your work. And as we grow, we will continue to look for more opportunities.
How can the fee be waived?
There is NO FEE for artists who have signed up to be an Artlink Articipant. If you are not yet signed up as an Articipant, click here to sign up now.
Can I submit to multiple calls promoted by Artlink?
Yes. Once you’ve set up your artist profile on Submittable.com, you can easily submit for this and other calls.
Can I submit the same art to multiple calls?
You can, but we encourage you to submit a variety of works and to pay close attention to deadlines, purchase dates, etc. so that the submitted works remain eligible for selection.
Is there an age minimum to apply?
Yes, you must be at least 18 years of age.
If I live outside of Phoenix or only spend some time in Arizona can I submit?
You are welcome to apply even if you live outside of Phoenix or split your time between Arizona and elsewhere. As long as you can assure that you will be available to drop off your work in Phoenix if you are selected to create an exhibition.
How do I prove I am an Artlink Articipant in my application?
The Artlink team will check our Articipant list on file to verify we have you in our records.
How old is the work you are willing to accept?
We would prefer that all artwork submitted be new or from the last 3 years at the oldest.
If I am selected to create an exhibition when will it be?
Artlink will schedule the exhibition based on discussions and calendars of both the artist and the venue providing the space.
What type of video can I submit?
All videos should be suitable for a wide audience and have no strong language, illegal activity, or overt nudity. Please send links on YouTube or Vimeo or submit the videos in .mov, .avi, or .mpg formats.
If I’ve been selected for past Artlink exhibitions or opportunities can I submit again?
Definitely! We would like to see new work, so please submit pieces that are different from what you’ve submitted in the past.
How will my work be evaluated?
The criteria is up to the Artlink Artist Council in determining which artist “demonstrates potential in their practice through risk-taking and pushing their work in dynamic ways.”
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the annual Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit www.artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Artlink Presents an ‘Artist Forward’ Art Detour 29 Weekend

Artists, Galleries, & Unique Venues Open Their Doors for Workshops, Demonstrations, Exhibitions
Art d’Core Gala kicks off the celebration March 16 with Mayor Greg Stanton’s Annual ‘Toast to Downtown’
Art Detour, Phoenix’s signature celebration of arts and culture returns March 16-19, 2017, with a four-day slate of diverse activities created by local artists and art venues as a reflection of the growing, vibrant Phoenix arts scene.
The 29th year kicks off with the 5th annual Art d’Core Gala, followed by a special Third Friday Gallery Night of exhibitions and artist receptions, and a Saturday and Sunday schedule of demonstrations, workshops, installations and more. The event is produced by Artlink Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, in partnership with the City of Phoenix and Downtown Phoenix Inc.
Named as “one of the most important events in Phoenix’s calendar” by City of Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, Art Detour invites visitors to witness the vital Phoenix arts community in many varied forms.
Visitors can meet with emerging and established artists, some in their own studios, some in the galleries; to experience demonstrations, engage in lively discussions; and find original works from a talented pool of Phoenix artists who are exporting their expressions to cities around the world.

“Artist Forward” See artist names below. Images provided by artists. Design by Erik Karvonen. Click to enlarge.
A Weekend Schedule of Events (details on artdetour.com)
Nearly 90 artist studios, galleries, cultural institutions, pop-up spaces, retailers and dining and nightlife establishments who support Phoenix’s thriving creative culture will open their doors inviting visitors to enjoy a four-day arts and culture experience.
Valley residents and visitors accustomed to a typical First Friday experience will find a decidedly different offering during Detour weekend:
Artists welcome visitors into their studios to learn about their process. Some collaborate with other artists to present a fresh relationship to their work.
- Galleries and art spaces host some of their finest shows of the year, highlighted by solo and group shows of abstraction, subculture, collaboration and no paint.
- The offbeat and colorful come alive with the 10th Annual Mutant Piñata Show, and an air stream gallery hosted by a trapeze artist, an interpretive performance artist in a sculpture garden.
- Hands-on demonstrations and workshops feature puppet making, Japanese taiko drumming, glass and neon, blindfold painting, a letterpress workshop, an Arduino meetup and plein air painting in the park.
- Shop for art! Most art on view is for sale – and purchases are strongly encouraged. Retailers also and artisan shops offer creative finds.
- Activities for early birds and night owls, include a silent morning walk, an interactive digital art projection, jazz concerts and an exotic art finale.
For a detailed event schedule including these and other events, visit artdetour.com.
(The event calendar is powered by Phoenix Urban Guide (“PUG”) a project of Artlink in partnership with the City Of Phoenix).
Getting Around – Extended Shuttle Service
For the first time, Artlink will provide complimentary shuttle service on the Third Friday Gallery Night in addition to the Saturday and Sunday daytime hours. The shuttles enable the public to park the car or bike and hop on or off in downtown districts including Historic Grand Avenue, Roosevelt Row, Central Arts District and Phoenix Warehouse District. Knowledgeable volunteer docents staff the trolleys which will run 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday, March 17, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 18-19. Get the trolley route map and more information here.
A Party to Kick off the Weekend
The annual celebration begins Thursday, March 16, from 6 to 9 p.m. at the 5th annual Art d’Core Gala. Held at Warehouse 215 @ Bentley Projects, 215 E. Grant St. in the heart of the emerging and dynamic Warehouse District, the gala will feature a one-night-only exhibition of works in a variety of media, created by well-established Phoenix-area artists Christine Cassano, Bill Dambrova, Pete Deise, Jeff Falk, Fortoul Brothers, William LeGoullon, Annie Lopez, Ann Morton, Rembrandt Quiballo, Joe Ray, Randy Slack, and Marilyn Szabo. Don’t miss a “Toast to Downtown’” by Mayor Greg Stanton to commence the event. Proceeds from the gala support Artlink, a portion of which will contribute to a new artist development fund designed to help provide direct financial support to local artists. Buy tickets here.
Art Detour 29 Weekend Schedule (details here)
March 16, 6 to 9 p.m.
Art D’Core Gala. The arts party of the year! Buy your tickets here.
March 17, 6 to 10 p.m.
Third Friday. A special gallery night of exhibition openings and receptions.
March 18-19, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Art Detour! Phoenix’s original art walk includes studio visits, art space tours, pop-ups, solo and group exhibitions, performances and installations. A map and shuttles will guide visitors throughout the weekend. FREE
Art Detour is hosted in partnership with the Office of the Mayor, City of Phoenix Office of Arts & Culture, and Downtown Phoenix Inc. and supported by Valley Metro, Phoenix Convention Center, Arizona Commission on the Arts, CityScape, Phoenix Art Museum, Arizona Center, Dunn Transportation, Warehouse215, Ivio Web Development, Urban Affair, Historic Grand Avenue, Roosevelt Row, Central Arts District and Phoenix Warehouse District.
Artists featured in “Artist Forward” collage above.
Top Row: Fushicho Daiko Dojo, Heather Meheut, Alex Banuelos, Megan Martis, Danielle Wood, Rick Naimark, Tracey Jenkins
Second Row: Sam Guevara, Andrew Lee, Travis Ivey, Barbara Cowlin, Constance McBride, Ellen Nemetz, Halldor Hjalmarson, Michelle Pugh (Smash Girl Studios)
Third Row: Carrie Beth McGarry (FunWow), Roisin McDermott, Laina McWhorter, April Howland, Bill Dambrova (Goat Heart Studio), Nikka Brooks-Cullum, Kristine Kollasch
Fourth Row: Mary Meyer Studio, Joan Waters, Rocco Menaguale, Ann Osgood, Jennifer B. Hoffman (44 Superfly Art Studio), Katharine Leigh Simpson, Jey Moore
Fifth Row: Lisa MacNamara, Stacey Gordon (Puppet Pie), Erik Karvonen, Idakatherine Graver, Jill Friedberg, Laura Cohen-Hogan, Ann Morton
Bottom Row: Patricia Sannit, Spillers, Tess Mosko, Marilyn Szabo, Matti Baine, Melissa Schleuger
#artdetour29
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the annual Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit www.artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
New First Fridays Trolley Routes to Provide Better Access

Smaller, more direct routes to downtown-area art spaces begin Feb. 3, will also be available during Art Detour 29
To give visitors better access to the increasingly popular arts and culture offerings during First Fridays, Artlink Inc. redesigned the paths taken by free trolleys circling Phoenix’s central core into three routes.
The new routes will serve the Grand Avenue, Roosevelt Row/Central Arts and Warehouse/Downtown districts, and become effective on the next First Friday, Feb. 3. They will also be accessible during Art Detour 29, March 17-19.
All three will intersect at the Connector Hub at Arizona Center, 400 E. Van Buren St., where parking will be validated for the first two hours for First Friday patrons who ride the trolley. Four other hubs also familiar to First Friday patrons will continue to pick up and drop off passengers at the Phoenix Art Museum, 1625 N. Central Ave.; Oasis on Grand, 15th and Grand Avenues; Unexpected Gallery, 734 W. Polk St.; and CityScape, 1 E. Washington St.
See a map of the new routes at www.artlinkphx.org/first-fridays.
Each trolley route offers a self-guided tour of the districts, allowing patrons to hop-on hop-off at the stops they choose. Volunteer docents staff the hub stops and the trolleys, providing information on the night’s arts and culture offerings.
The trolleys run from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. every First Friday, and each route will take about 20 minutes to travel it in its entirety. The trolleys, provided by Dunn Transportation, Artlink’s official transportation partner, have been serving First Fridays for several years.
“The new routes provide First Friday patrons a direct connection to each of the districts, allowing for more time in galleries and other art spaces,” said Artlink Board President Catrina Kahler. “The Connector Hub at Arizona Center allows for multiple experiences over the course of one night or multiple months. We appreciate the opportunity to support artist and art venues through the offer of discount parking on these busy nights in downtown Phoenix.”
Artlink volunteers will be present at the Connector Hub at Arizona Center to validate parking for up to two hours. The two-hour validation is valued at $6 and can be applied to standard parking rates for longer periods. Nearby metered parking is also available.
The routes are now permanent for all First Fridays and also will be accessible during Art Detour 29, Artlink’s annual multi-faceted exploration of the arts and culture of America’s sixth-largest city and its myriad art spaces. More details about Art Detour, March 16-19, will be announced at www.artdetour.com.
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the annual Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit www.artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Art Detour 29: A Signature Celebration of Phoenix’s Arts and Culture

Studios, Galleries and Pop-up Spaces to Host 29th Annual Art Detour: a Signature Celebration of Phoenix’s Arts and Culture
Artlink Collaborates with the Phoenix Arts Community on a Four-Day Weekend Schedule of Activities and Installations
‘Articipants’ Invited to Two January ‘Mixed Media’ Happy Hours to Collaborate, Plan Art Detour
PHOENIX — The event that helped launch the First Fridays Art Walk phenomenon is expanding from two to four days in 2017. Art Detour 29 on March 16-19 will feature a diverse slate of activities created by local artists and art venues to celebrate the growing, vibrant Phoenix arts scene.
The 29th year of this signature arts and culture event includes the 5th annual Art d’Core Gala, a special Third Friday Gallery Night, and an Art Detour weekend schedule of demonstrations, installations and more. The event is produced by Artlink Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, in partnership with the City of Phoenix and Downtown Phoenix Inc.
Named as “one of the most important events in Phoenix’s calendar” by City of Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, Art Detour encourages conversation and inquiry, and directly connects the public with the artists in our community. The event is a result of a collaboration between artists, galleries, cultural venues and businesses offering their spaces for one-time exhibitions. Visitors are invited to witness the vital Phoenix arts community in many varied forms.
“We consider Art Detour 29 the penultimate event of a significant 30-year history of Artlink and for the Phoenix arts scene as a whole,” said Catrina Kahler, Artlink board president. “Artists have created much more than their own work in this time. They have contributed to our environment, built businesses, developed districts, and created a textured downtown for the sixth largest city in the nation. Art Detour tells this story and invites Phoenicians and springtime visitors to buy art for their home or tickets to a performance, all in support and celebration of our city’s creative economy and culture.”
A Party to Kick off the Weekend
The annual celebration begins Thursday evening, March 16, at the 5th annual Art d’Core Gala. Held at Warehouse215 @ Bentley Projects in the heart of the emerging and dynamic Warehouse District. This fun spin on a traditional “gala” annually spotlights the significant contribution of the arts in creating a dynamic city.
The Art d’Core Gala is hosted in partnership with the Office of the Mayor, City of Phoenix Office of Arts & Culture, and Downtown Phoenix Inc. This is a ticketed event and proceeds benefit Artlink Inc. Tickets go on sale January 16, 2017.
Take a Detour Beyond Phoenix’s First Fridays
Did you know artists don’t open their studios to the public on the popular First Fridays? Or that galleries don’t always schedule their exhibition openings on these nights? First Friday only skims the surface of what makes Phoenix’s arts community special.
Art Detour 29 is an invitation to take a deeper dive, by meeting with established and emerging artists, some as special engagements in their own studios; experiencing demonstrations and discussions; and finding original works from a talented pool of Phoenix artists who are exporting their work to cities around the world.
Expanded Hours
In addition to these daytime activities, Art Detour 29 will feature an expanded and varied schedule, with some events taking place outdoors, capitalizing on Phoenix’s pleasant March weather. This includes a morning walk and nighttime events and openings, coinciding with March Third Friday “Gallery Night.” A sample of these unique happenings includes:
- 7 to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 17-18 – “Intersection” is a temporary digital projection project designed to transform a public space in downtown Phoenix. The second in a series, this installation combines video, sound, and interactivity powered by advanced rear-projection digital technology to morph a building into a glowing canvas after dark. This project is a partnership between the Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture and Downtown Phoenix Inc. Visit phoenix.gov/arts.
- 7 a.m. Saturday, March 18 – The Museum of Walking (MoW) presents theWALK, a 90-minute contemplative walk at Rio Salado Habitat Restoration Area in Phoenix. Join 1000 bodies walking in silence and moving mindfully through public space. This is a ticketed event. Proceeds go to future MoW programing and artist projects. Rio Salado Restoration Habitat, Phoenix Visit mowthewalk.org.
- 8 p.m. to 1 a.m. Saturday, March 18 – The Alwun House hosts the 33rd Annual Exotic Art Show Finale, featuring House of Cirque and Ernesto Moncado. Mature subject matter, under 18 accompanied by an adult. This is a ticketed event and proceeds benefit Alwun House Foundation. Visit alwunhouse.org.
Mixed Media Happy Hours in January – An Invitation to CREATE Art Detour
Two events are scheduled to bring together participating artists, organizations and businesses to create a bigger and better Detour experience for patrons.
Artlink is hosting two “Mixed Media” happy hours, on January 19 and January 25, in Historic Grand Avenue and in Roosevelt Row, to cultivate and collaborate on ideas for the upcoming Art Detour 29.
Mixed Media – Who Should Attend?
- Artists who can open their central Phoenix studios for demonstrations or classes during the weekend. These studio tours are a fundamental component of Art Detour.
- Artists and organizations interested in adding a special performance event (music/dance/spoken word/etc.) to the Detour schedule.
- Businesses and venues looking to host an exhibition or performance.
Those interested in participating are invited to register as official Artlink “Articipants” — artists, art venues, business and community members who regularly participate in the Phoenix arts scene — to be included in Art Detour promotions and Artlink’s other year-round communications.
RSVP below and REGISTER AS AN ARTICIPANT HERE
Art Detour 29 Schedule of Events, 2017
January 19, 6 to 8 p.m.
“Mixed Media” Happy Hour at ThirdSpace, 1028 N.W. Grand Ave., Phoenix. RSVP HERE to the JAN 19 event
January 25, 6 to 8 p.m.
“Mixed Media” Happy Hour at Bliss + ReBar, 905 N. Fourth St., Phoenix. RSVP HERE to the JAN 25 event
March 16, 6 to 9 p.m.
Art D’Core Gala. The arts party of the year! Tickets go on sale January 16, 2017.
March 17, 6 to 10 p.m.
Pre-Detour Third Friday. A special gallery night of exhibition openings and receptions.
March 18-19
The Art Detour! Phoenix’s original art walk includes studio visits, art space tours and one-time exhibits and installations. A map and shuttles will guide visitors throughout the weekend.
Getting Around
Artlink will once again provide shuttle service enabling the public to park the car or bike and hop on or off at galleries throughout downtown. Knowledgeable docents staff the trolleys helping to guide new and returning visitors. Scheduled times for the trolley are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, March 18-19.
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the annual Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Create Art Detour 29 at Mixed Media Happy Hours

Mix and Create a Detour Together
Two events are scheduled to bring together participating artists and arts businesses to create a bigger and better Detour experience for patrons.
Artlink invites its “Articipants” — area artists, art venues, business and community members who regularly participate in the Phoenix arts scene — to attend one of two happy hour events in January to celebrate and collaborate on ideas for the upcoming Art Detour 29.
Mixed Media Happy Hour Schedule
Jan. 19, 6 to 8 p.m.
“Mixed Media” Happy Hour at ThirdSpace, 1028 N.W. Grand Ave., Phoenix (map)
Click here RSVP to the JAN 19 event at ThirdSpace
Jan. 25, 6 to 8 p.m.
“Mixed Media” Happy Hour at Bliss + ReBar, 905 N. Fourth St., Phoenix (map)
Click here to RSVP to the JAN 25 event at Bliss/ReBAR
Artists, Organizations and Businesses Invited to Become Year-Round Artlink ‘Articipants’

Artlink Adds Performing Artists, Arts and Culture Organizations to List of Those Eligible for Becoming Year-Round ‘Articipants’
Improves services to include upgrades to ‘Phoenix Urban Guide’ that now features Artist Activity Page, ‘Happening Now,’ and Directory
PHOENIX — Reflecting Artlink’s expanded reach into the greater Phoenix arts community, for the first time performing artists and arts and culture organizations can become “Articipants” along with other types of artists and arts venues.
Find the registration form here
At the same time, Artlink has upgraded its emerging Phoenix Urban Guide to include an interactive Articipants directory, a “Happening Now” feature that entitles Articipants to promote their exhibitions and performances, and an Artists Activity Page will allow Articipant artists to upload their most recent activities to be seen by the larger community.
The new categories of Articipants join visual artists, visual and performing arts venues and businesses that contribute to the arts experience in greater Phoenix as being featured during Art Detour, on First Friday maps and more.
“Artlink’s core mission is ‘keeping the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community’,” said Artlink Board President Catrina Kahler. “We’re very pleased to offer these amenities to Articipants to help better connect those who contribute to and support the arts in Phoenix.”
Those who sign up for Articipation are included in the promotion of Art Detour, First and Third Fridays and more throughout 2017. Plus, they may list their activities, exhibitions, performances, etc., on the new online map that everyone who follows the Phoenix arts scene will be using as it expands in 2017: Phoenix Urban Guide, or “PUG,” http://www.phoenixurbanguide.com.
A significant change to the upcoming Art Detour experience is that Artlink’s 5th Annual Art d’Core Gala (March 16 at Warehouse215, 215 E. Grant St.) and 29th Annual Art Detour (March 17-19) will be held during the same week in 2017.
With both events approaching soon, now is the best opportunity for Articipants to sign up and make the most of their year-round Artlink benefits. Articipants receive a wide range of benefits based on different categories (Artists; Galleries/Art Spaces; Arts & Culture Organizations; Restaurants/Bars/Retail).
Designed to help promote the artistic and cultural endeavors of participating Articipants, year-round benefits begin February 1, 2017 and continue through January 31, 2018. The Articipant registration deadline is January 27, 2017.
“Artlink continues to tailor its services to the growing greater Phoenix arts community,” said Artlink Board President Catrina Kahler. “We are excited to further promote a full spectrum of arts and culture experiences accessible in downtown Phoenix.”
Artists, venues and businesses may register to become Articipants here.
Here’s the schedule of annual Articipant registration fees:
Visual or performing artist: Established (10 years or more) or Emerging (fewer than 10 years) $60. Student visual or performing artists pay a discounted rate of $24. Students must email a copy of their student ID to info@artlinkphx.org.
Arts venues: Art Space/Cultural Venue/Collective/Performing Arts Venue ($250,000 or more annual operating budget), $144. Less than $250,000, $84.
Arts-supporting businesses: Dining/Nightlife/Retail/Other: $144.
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the annual Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Artists Selected for the CitySkate Street Art Gallery Installation

Congratulations to the six artists whose work was selected to be featured on the CitySkate “street gallery” installation that will be on display throughout the holiday season.
Artlink and CityScape Phoenix invited local artists to submit samples of previously completed work to be considered for display on a structure that is a part of CitySkate in downtown Phoenix.
We were thrilled with the response and excited to provide an opportunity for artists to participate in this holiday tradition that draws 200,000 people every year. It was the first year of this collaboration, and we’re already looking forward to next year.
The installation will be on display until January 8, 2017.
Shopping Downtown by Charles Harker
All Dressed Up by Howard Paley
Cact-Us by Jesse Perry
North Star by Carlos Mendoza
Hello Sunshine by Sharon Sieben
Sonoran Lights by Frank Ybarra
Mixed Media Happy Hour 11/15

Join us at the first “Mixed Media” Happy Hour!
Who’s invited?
All Artists, arts entrepreneurs, businesses and advocates who contribute to the arts and culture experience in greater downtown Phoenix.
Mix, mingle and get the details about the 2017 Articipant Program, Art Detour, Third Fridays and more!
Date: Tuesday, November 15, 2016
Time: 5:00 – 7:00 p.m.
Location: The Grand Central Coffee Co.
Address: 718 North Central Ave. (Map)
Cost: FREE admission, no host bar
Hosted by Artlink, City of Phoenix Arts & Culture Office, Downtown Phoenix Inc.
Call to Artists: CitySkate Celebrates Holidays in Downtown

Artlink and CityScape invite local artists to submit samples of previously completed work to be considered for display on a structure that is a part of CitySkate in downtown Phoenix.
A panel will select the top SIX selections. Each winner will receive a $200 prize. Their works will then be reproduced on banner material and displayed on a chiller structure (two 40’ banners, three artworks on each) within CitySkate and featured in CityScape promotions.
There is NO SUBMISSION FEE for this call. The deadline to submit is November 7, 2016.
SUBMISSION DETAILS
A variety of contemporary street art styles are welcome for submission. Artists are encouraged to submit works that reflect a holiday theme. This can include images of generosity, gratitude, hope, celebration, or joy.
Individual artists are invited to apply to this call. Please note that by submitting to this call, artist agrees to permit Artlink and CityScape to reproduce the image of their selected work. Limited edition items may be sold for a limited time (selected artists will be notified of details).
Click here more information on Cityskate.
The online submission deadline is November 7, by midnight.
Artists must be residents of Arizona.
Details:
- Submit up to three images (three individual work samples).
- JPGs or TIFFs, up to 300 dpi. *Please note that a larger high-res image will be requested if selected.
- Images of works must be able to be scaled to reproduction size of the banners. We can work with the artist in ensure the sizing is correct.
- Include:
- Title,
- dimensions,
- materials used,
- year completed
- Current resume(s) and primary contact information.
CLICK HERE TO SUBMIT
TIMELINE
- Application deadline November 7, 2016.
- Mural will be installed in mid November.
FAQ
Is there a fee to submit to this CitySkate Call for Artists?
No. In the spirit of the holidays, the typical submission fee of $30 has been waived for this call.
Can I submit to multiple calls promoted by Artlink?
Yes. Once you’ve set up your artist profile on Submittable.com, you can easily submit for this and future calls. There is NO FEE for artists who have signed up to be an Artlink Articipant. Registration for 2017 Articipants will begin November 1.
Can I submit the same art to multiple calls?
You can, but we encourage you to submit a variety of works and to pay close attention to requirements, deadlines, etc. so that the submitted works remain eligible for selection.
What style of work is CityScape looking for?
A variety of styles are welcome for submission.
How do I decide what works to submit?
We suggest you submit three of your best works which reflect the holiday theme of the call. This can include images of generosity, gratitude, hope, celebration, joy, etc.
For further questions, please email submissions@artlinkphx.org.
About Artlink Inc.
Artlink keeps the arts integral to the development of our city by connecting artists, business and community. Artlink supports a variety of community-based art events, including complimentary Trolley Tours during the monthly First Friday Art Walk, one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks; a pop-up gallery program; the Infusion arts initiative; and the annual Juried Exhibition, Art Detour, and Art d’Core Gala. Artlink is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization and is supported by City of Phoenix Office of Arts and Culture, Downtown Phoenix Inc., Arizona Commission on the Arts, Phoenix Art Museum, The Arizona Republic, Dunn Transportation, Roosevelt Row CDC, Warehouse District, Central Arts District and Historic Grand Avenue. Visit artlinkphx.org to sign up for the Artlink newsletter or connect socially on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.