In Scottsdale, the arts aren’t just an amenity — they’re part of the city’s DNA. Old Town’s streets are lined with galleries that spill color onto the sidewalks, while institutions like the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts anchor a vibrant scene with world-class music, theater, and dance.
Amy Gaus is carrying that creative momentum forward, championing the second Scottsdale Art Week at WestWorld of Scottsdale from Friday, March 19, to Sunday, March 22.
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“Scottsdale Art Week has emerged as a vital platform where artists, galleries and collectors converge to celebrate creativity and build meaningful connections across the national and international art world,” said Gause, Scottsdale Art Week fair director. This year’s event is slated to draw 120 galleries.
With Phoenix Art Museum as its beneficiary, the Opening Night Vernissage — from 6 to 9 p.m. Thursday, March 19 — offers patrons a first look at the art, awards, entertainment, and performances by Lunar Calendar, the ensemble known for blending classical chamber music with contemporary sounds.
Interior designer and architect Oscar De las salas and his husband, Gary Jackson, will emcee the evening.
Opening night guests will find bars and pop-up restaurants throughout the 120,000-square-foot North Hall of WestWorld, along with a Veuve Clicquot Restaurant & Bubble Bar and exclusive access to the Stella Artois Sculpture Garden.
“The Opening Night Vernissage has quickly become a must-attend moment for serious collectors, presenting an elegant, high-energy evening that sets the tone for the entire fair. It signals a new chapter for the Southwest, positioning Arizona as a significant destination on the global art calendar.”
During the Vernissage, Indigenous artist and photographer Cara Romero will receive Scottsdale Art Week’s inaugural Indigenous Artist of the Year Award. The 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award will go to James Ballinger, Phoenix Art Museum’s director emeritus.
“James Ballinger’s influence on the cultural fabric of Arizona cannot be overstated,” Gause said. “Through 40 years of dedication, he elevated Phoenix Art Museum’s profile while fostering a deep sense of community engagement with the arts. His legacy lives not only in the institution he strengthened, but in the vibrant arts community he helped build.”
Scottsdale Art Week will also honor Francis Najafi, CEO and founder of Pivotal Group, as its first Philanthropist of the Year.
“Najafi is recognized for his exceptional philanthropy and unwavering support for arts, education and community-building initiatives. Together, these honors reflect Scottsdale Art Week’s commitment to celebrating leadership that shapes culture, fosters creativity and invests in the arts’ future,” Gause said.
March was intentionally chosen to take advantage of the Valley’s peak events season.
“The weather is flawless,” she said. “Visitors are already flocking here for MLB spring training. A lot of the country is still experiencing snow and ice. Here, you can have your swimsuit on in the pool in Scottsdale. The tourism aspect is definitely important as well.”
That timing aligns with the team’s mission to elevate Scottsdale’s reputation in the international art world.
“The other mission is to bring the international art world to Scottsdale’s doorstep,” Gause said. “People are flying in artwork from galleries around the world to exhibit at the fair. That’s really exciting.”
Galleries purchase booths where artists meet patrons and showcase their work day after day.
“We have contemporary Indigenous and Latinx components we’re really proud of, representing the region,” she said. “We’re unique — different from New York or Miami. A beautiful array of work is available, and everything on the floor is for sale.
“All of WestWorld is transformed into a chic art gallery,” she added. “Black carpet, white walls, and more than 120 exhibitors from across the country and around the world.”
Information: scottsdaleartweek.com
