Fine Art Museum of Sedona’s mission is to build a world-class fine arts museum featuring state-of-the-art architecture surrounded by spectacular gardens, sculptures and views. The progress since 2012 has been challenging, yet the vision remains intact. FAMoS’ goal is to acquire and curate a permanent collection of original works of art from artists who have lived and worked in Sedona and the Verde Valley and to present temporary exhibits that will educate and inform the public. For a community that’s already vested in the arts, a museum of this caliber will undoubtedly raise the bar and distinguish Sedona as a significant arts destination. This cause has inspired the community and the readership to participate in various facets of the project, from fundraising to raising awareness. Community sessions are typically well-attended, and represent what unity of purpose can accomplish. Engaging the business and philanthropic sectors has been key.
Fine art is a common thread running through Sedona’s history. Surrealists Max Ernst and his wife, Dorothea Tanning, lived in Sedona and loved its majestic beauty. Max was a pioneer of the Dada movement − an art movement of the European avant-garde in the early 20th century; he and his wife were influential surrealist artists known around the world.
Recently, as part of FAMoS’ speaker series, Dr. Alyce Mahon, a professor at Cambridge University, spoke to a sold-out audience in a lecture titled, “Dorothea Tanning: From Sedona to Seillans.” The lecture provided insight into Dorothea Tanning’s work, her long career as a Surrealist, her relationship with Max Ernst and their life in Sedona. Dr. Mahon emphasized that surrealism is a language that artists used to communicate their philosophical ideas in an imaginative dream-like setting on canvas. Dorothea Tanning’s use of flowers and landscapes (as seen above) were repeated motifs and symbols used in her work.
FAMoS has also brought in other renowned speakers to discuss topics of interest for art enthusiasts, artists and gallery owners.
MORE ART GALLERIES IN NORTHERN ARIZONA: Shows, exhibitions and happenings
