Originally built by cowboy artist Alonzo “Lon” Megargee as his art studio and residence, The Hermosa Inn has a history within the art world reaching as far back as 1936. After being launched to prominence by his commission with the state of Arizona to create 15 large, historic and iconic murals for the capitol building in 1913, Megargee also worked briefly in Hollywood; created illustrations for the cover of popular Western story magazines in the 1920s, which are hanging in the Library at The Hermosa Inn; and was also commissioned by Stetson to create his now-famous “Last Drop from His Stetson,” which to this day is printed in the top of every top-of-the-line Stetson hat and is the namesake for The Hermosa Inn’s Last Drop at the Hermosa.Lon Megargee, "Last Drop From His Stetson"

With such a rich history in the Arizona arts scene, The Hermosa Inn has since made a mission to preserve its artful origins, in addition to building an awareness of arts and culture within Arizona. A private collection of Megargee’s work has blossomed into an exhibit of more than 30 original pieces, which adorn the walls of the Inn and its culinary centerpiece, LON’s at the Hermosa — while the award-winning Artist in Residence Series is now in its eighth season. Most recently, however, is a partnership with Figarelli Fine Art — a leader in contemporary Southwestern art — who has brought in, and crane-lifted, an art installment valued at more than $2 million.

Lon Megargee, "Cowboy’s Dream"The 50+ piece exhibit is displayed in the resort, throughout the grounds, within guest rooms and in what is now the “Sculpture Garden,” includes such prominent artists as Allan Houser, Paul Moore, John Dawson, Phillip Haozous and Tony Lee. Combined with the existing pieces by Megargee, The Hermosa Inn has become an epicenter of Southwestern artistry and come late September will be hosting The Hermosa Inn Art Walk.

The Art Walk will allow guests and Valley residents alike to take guided, or self-guided, tours of the artwork on property, learn more about the artistic origins of the “old Arizona” inn and have the opportunity to purchase the work on-site.

In addition to the tours, the Inn will also be coordinating culinary events in the Sculpture Garden, where guests will not only be able to enjoy the atmosphere and artwork, but also the culinary creations of Executive Chef Jeremy Pacheco.

As if this wasn’t enough, the award-winning Artist in Residence program will be returning to the property in October and will feature a series of dinners and brunches with critically acclaimed artists, authors and musicians from across the U.S. who will be sharing stories about their work, art and life. Attendees will have the opportunity to mingle with each accomplished artists and, in some cases, watch as they create a masterpiece on-site while they share their tips and techniques.

The line-up includes:

Artist in Residence Dinners ($99++/person):

Friday, October 19: Javon Jackson
Friday, November 30: Ed Mell
Thursday, February 21, 2013: Jeffrey Siegel
Saturday, March 16, 2013: Mike Elsass Artist ‘Canvas and Corks’ Workshop
Friday, April 5, 2013: Dr. Connie Mariano

Artist in Residence Brunches
(complimentary with the cost of brunch at LON’s):

Sunday, October 21: Patsy Lowry
Sunday, November 18: Tom Van Dyke
Sunday, January 27, 2013: Jim Sudal
Sunday, February 17, 2013: Fred Krakowiak
Sunday, March 10, 2013: Linda Pullinsi
Sunday, March 17, 2013: Mike Elsass

For art lovers anxious to get a glimpse, The Hermosa Inn is open for viewing of the artwork on property, and private tours can be set up by calling (602) 955-8614. For further information on The Hermosa Inn & LON’s or upcoming Artist in Residence details, visit HermosaInn.com, Facebook , Twitter or The Hermosa Inn blog.

ABOUT THE HERMOSA INN & LON’S

Recently named one of the 2012 “Top 500 Hotels in the World” by Travel + Leisure Magazine and Condé Nast Traveler’s 2011 Reader’s Poll pick, The Hermosa Inn is a jewel of a hideaway in the heart of the Valley — minutes from Scottsdale, yet surrounded by an exclusive neighborhood in Paradise Valley. Originally hand-crafted in the 1930s by cowboy artist Lon Megargee at his private residence, the Inn’s adobe architecture has kept its “old Arizona” character and charm. All 34 casitas are surrounded by spectacular landscaping and beautiful desert vistas.

The $2 million remodel of the accommodations retains the legendary personality and intimate atmosphere of the original hacienda, while enhancing the accommodations with upgraded amenities for a more luxurious experience. The culinary centerpiece of the Inn is Lon’s at the Hermosa, the celebrated Four Diamond restaurant renowned for “artful American” cuisine, which is complemented by the Last Drop Bar, aptly named after one of the many paintings by Megargee that can be seen throughout the historic inn. For more information, visit HermosaInn.com or call (602) 955-8614.