Staff Reports | Happenings & Events
Scottsdale Public Art has opened a new exhibition highlighting the city’s history as it approaches a milestone anniversary.
“Desert Diamonds: Scottsdale’s 75th Anniversary” runs from April 10 through June 30, 2026, at the Civic Center Public Gallery inside Scottsdale Civic Center Library and features works selected from the city’s Fine Art Collection, according to a press release.
The exhibition traces Scottsdale’s relationship with the arts from its earliest years. The arts were part of the city’s development beginning with Helen Scott, wife of founder Winfield Scott, who emphasized the importance of cultural life in the community. Scottsdale was incorporated in 1951, and the artworks were selected in recognition of the city’s diamond anniversary.
Wendy Raisanen, curator and collections manager for Scottsdale Public Art, a department of Scottsdale Arts, said the selection process was personal.
“I grew up here and remember artwork on display in the library,” Ms. Raisanen said. “Scottsdale’s art collection really began in the late 1960s, when a few enthusiastic citizens held exhibitions in the library and started collecting artwork for the future. They imagined an art center, a museum and big things for Scottsdale, all for us.”
The works on display span photography, painting and sculpture and reflect Scottsdale’s creative and cultural history since its incorporation. The exhibition also highlights Scottsdale Arts’ role in supporting local artists and documenting artistic activity over several decades.
Featured works include Mario Martinez’s “Yaqui Deer Dancer: Homage to the Ancestors,” which depicts the artist’s Yaqui/Yoeme ancestors and residents of 20th‑century Scottsdale, and “Helen Scott on Old Maude,” George‑Ann Tognoni’s reduced‑scale version of the “Winfield Scott Memorial” bronze sculpture at Scottsdale Civic Center.
“This exhibition is a meaningful reflection of Scottsdale’s identity as a community that values creativity, culture and connection,” Mr. Greg Caton, Scottsdale city manager, said. “As we celebrate our 75th anniversary, ‘Desert Diamonds’ highlights how the arts have shaped our city from its earliest days to today. These works not only honor our history, but they also inspire the next generation and reinforce our commitment to supporting a vibrant, accessible arts community for all who live, work and visit here.”
In addition to the exhibition, an audio tour will be available through the Scottsdale Public Art guide on the Bloomberg Connects app.
