By Sydney Ritter | Scottsdale Arts
Canal Convergence presented by Scottsdale Arts is known for the light-based interactive artworks that anchor the free event every November, but there are also more than 100 creative workshops, eclectic performances, educational tours and other activities over the course of its 10 nights, Nov. 8–17.
Among the things to do at Canal Convergence is the return of the One Water Brewing Showcase and the Women’s Collective Night Run during the first weekend and the Mini Film Festival during the second weekend. Attendees can learn about the artworks during nightly tours led by Scottsdale Arts staff. All tours will be given in English, but Nov. 10 will offer Spanish translation and Nov. 11 will provide American Sign Language translation.
The performances, drop-in workshops and some other activities are free, just like the main event itself. The art tours, ticketed workshops and certain special events do require ticket purchases.
Just like the artworks, the workshops play to the 2024 theme: “Reflections.”
“This year the Nationwide Innovation Zone will host nightly reflection-based workshops and experiences led by artists, designers, florists, community organizers and students,” said Lyndal Pleasant, Canal Convergence engagement consultant for Scottsdale Art Learning & Innovation.
“The workshops highlight the many meanings of reflections, from the literal use of reflective material to self-reflection, reflections in fashion and reflections in nature. These fun, interactive workshops allow attendees to engage with artists and peers while truly reflecting on artmaking and the world around them.”
Creating a fall wreath, collaging and printmaking are just a few of the workshops taking place in the Innovation Zone. Workshop presenters range from Canal Convergence exhibiting artists, like Brooke Einbender of Colorado-based Mindbender Studio, who will teach participants how to create their own “Gaiascope,” to Arizona-based artists, like Uran Desert Flora, who will lead a workshop in making a fall wreath using a blend of locally grown fresh and preserved flowers.
Cass Hoverson of Crummy Clothes returns to welcome patrons into her dress-up space, where attendees can reflect on their own participation in the fast fashion world and how they can make upcycled clothes fun.
Most days, the Scottsdale Arts Roundabout will feature different, reflective engagements hosted by community partner organizations, including the Arizona Veterans Mission Group, Greasepaint Youtheatre/Scottsdale Community Players, Scottsdale Artists League and Cosanti.
In addition to the Scottsdale Arts Roundabout activities, Canal Convergence is teaming up with partner organizations for some special events. SRP will bring back its history tour, while The Women’s Collective Night Run is back for the third year with “Gaiascope” artist Brooke Einbender officially kicking-off this year’s run. And the Scottsdale Gallery Association’s first Gold Palette ArtWalk of the fall season will take place on Nov. 9 in association with Canal Convergence.
The Canal Convergence Mini Film Festival, which debuted in 2023, is returning with expanded programming and footprint on Nov. 15 and 16 at Harkins Camelview at Fashion Square. Moviegoers will be able to watch over 30 short films curated with the “Reflections” theme between the two days, and VIP ticketholders are invited to the Film Fest VIP Experience inside the Fiesta Bowl Museum. At the VIP Experience, filmgoers, filmmakers, actors and more can enjoy complimentary refreshments, network and reflect on the films. The “Best On-Theme Short” winner will also be announced at the VIP Experience.
“Our featured films will test and invite exploration into humans’ perceptions of themselves and the world around them, which is no easy feat,” said Kiara Brown, event coordinator for Canal Convergence. “We hope this experience will provoke dialogue within our audience and, at the very least, leave our filmgoers feeling inspired and reassured that even the smallest instances of reflecting on your role and influence in this world can have a significant impact.”
Attendees looking to relax, get a drink and listen to live music can stop by the Herberger Stage, surrounded by the Canal Convergence Beer and Wine Garden at Soleri Plaza. Every night the stage will host live music from a wide variety of Arizona-based and regional performers. Some of the headliners include Kim Weston (jazz), Viridian (indie), Desert Rose Project (rock), Sandra Bassett (disco), Medio Pinto (Latin/folk) and Hyperbella (intergalactic neo-soul).
Dance has a long tradition at Canal Convergence, and this year is no different.
NicoleOlson|MovementChaos returns on Nov. 9 with a performance at the “Phase Change” artwork on Marshall Way Bridge. Additionally, Scottsdale Community College Dance Department, in residency with Nicole Olson, will perform site-specific dances in various locations at the Waterfront on Nov. 10.
Those who want to add to the atmosphere can stop by The Store @ Canal Convergence to purchase light-up gear and Canal Convergence-branded merchandise. Additionally, food trucks and dessert vendors will be present every night, and the Canal Convergence Beer and Wine Garden will be open for wine, beer, canned cocktails and soft drinks throughout the event.
For a different Canal Convergence vibe, patrons can purchase tickets to the Canal Convergence Opening Celebration on Nov. 9 at The Billie Jo Herberger Lounge to sip, savor and sustain the arts at this fundraiser for the event. Each ticket comes with a complimentary drink voucher and the opportunity to take advantage of an outdoor evening in the midst of both art and ambiance.
Then on Nov. 12, The BIllie Jo Herberger Lounge will host Scottsdale Professionals Converge presented by Randy Nussbaum and Sacks Tierney P.A., a networking event hosted by NextGen@Scottsdale Arts, Scottsdale Leadership and Scottsdale Rising Young Professionals. Tickets to this event include light hors d’oeuvres and access to The Lounge’s cash bar.
Finally, back for its fourth year is another collaboration with the city of Scottsdale via the One Water Brewing Showcase. Happening for one night only on Nov. 8, attendees can sample five different beers from participating breweries for $20. The twist is that all the beers are made exclusively with ultra-purified water from Scottsdale Water’s Advanced Water Treatment Plant.
