Mesa, Arizona is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene. The city has a rich history of promoting and supporting the arts, and it continues to be a hub for arts enthusiasts and artists alike. From art museums and galleries to events and programs, Mesa offers a wide range of options for those interested in exploring the arts. In this article, we will highlight some of the most popular art destinations, events, and programs in Mesa.
Public Art
Mesa is home to a variety of public art installations that can be found throughout the city. These installations include sculptures, murals, and other works of art that are integrated into the city’s landscape.
One notable public art installation is the Mesa Arts and Entertainment District Sculpture Walk. The Sculpture Walk features 38 sculptures that are scattered throughout the downtown area. The sculptures were created by local and national artists and are made from a variety of materials, including bronze, steel, and glass.
The Mesa Public Art Program also provides opportunities for artists to create new public art installations. The program commissions artists to create site-specific works of art that are integrated into the city’s public spaces.
Mesa Arts Center
One of the most prominent art destinations in Mesa is the Mesa Arts Center. The center is a state-of-the-art facility that offers a variety of programming, including art exhibitions, live performances, and classes. The center is home to four theaters, including the Ikeda Theater, which can seat up to 1,600 audience members. The other theaters, which range in size from 99 to 550 seats, are used for performances such as dance, theater, and music.
In addition to its theaters, the Mesa Arts Center also has several exhibition spaces that showcase a diverse range of art forms. The galleries include the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, which features contemporary art from around the world, and the Art Studios, which display the artwork of local artists.
One unique feature of the Mesa Arts Center is the Creative Catalysts program, which offers residencies for artists and writers. The program provides artists with a studio space and living accommodations for up to six months, allowing them to focus on their creative work.
Dia de los Muertos Festival
The Dia de los Muertos Festival is an annual event held at the Mesa Arts Center. The festival is a celebration of the Day of the Dead, a Mexican holiday that honors deceased loved ones. The festival features live music, dance performances, a traditional procession, and art exhibitions. Attendees can participate in hands-on activities such as face painting, flower crown making, and sugar skull decorating.
The festival also features a community altar, where attendees can leave photos and mementos of their loved ones who have passed away. The altar is a central part of the Day of the Dead tradition and serves as a way to remember and honor the deceased.
Mesa Arts Festival
The Mesa Arts Festival is a two-day event that takes place annually in historic downtown Mesa. The festival showcases the work of over 200 artists and artisans from around the country. Attendees can browse and purchase artwork in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics, and more.
In addition to the artwork, the Mesa Arts Festival also features live music, dance performances, and children’s activities. Food trucks and vendors offer a variety of food and drink options.
The Mesa Arts Festival is a great opportunity to support local and national artists while enjoying a fun and festive atmosphere.
Art on Main Street
Art on Main Street is a monthly event held in downtown Mesa. The event features local artists and vendors selling artwork, jewelry, and other handmade items. Attendees can also enjoy live music and food trucks.
Art on Main Street takes place on the first Saturday of every month from October through April. The event is free to attend and offers a great opportunity to support local artists and small businesses.
Contemporary Hispanic Market
The Contemporary Hispanic Market is an annual event that takes place in downtown Mesa. The market showcases the work of Hispanic artists and artisans from Arizona and New Mexico. Attendees can browse and purchase artwork, jewelry, pottery, and more.
In addition to the artwork, the Contemporary Hispanic Market also features live music, dance performances, and food vendors. The event is a celebration of Hispanic culture and is a great way to support Hispanic artists and small businesses.
MCC Art Gallery
The Mesa Community College Art Gallery is a space dedicated to showcasing the work of local and national artists. The gallery exhibits a wide range of art forms, including painting, photography, sculpture, and more.
In addition to its exhibitions, the MCC Art Gallery also hosts lectures and workshops with visiting artists. These events provide an opportunity for attendees to learn from and interact with experienced artists.
MCC Theater
The Mesa Community College Theater is a state-of-the-art space that hosts a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and concerts. The theater features professional-quality sound and lighting systems and can accommodate up to 463 audience members.
In addition to its performances, the MCC Theater also provides opportunities for students to get involved in theater production. The theater offers courses in theater design, stage management, and acting, among others.