Youth Art Program

The Sonoran Arts League is dedicated to supporting visual arts, artists, and art education while inspiring a lifelong appreciation for creativity. We believe art education plays an important role in helping young people develop focus, strengthen cognitive skills, build confidence, and discover new ways to express themselves. Through education, mentorship, and creative opportunities, we strive to inspire a life of art for all ages.

SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS – Since 2003, the Sonoran Arts League has recognized the artistic abilities of young artists and awarded scholarships to graduating seniors from local high schools pursuing studies in the arts.

INCENTIVE AWARDS – The Sonoran Arts League recognizes schoolchildren who show exceptional interest in art and awards them with gift bags filled with art books and supplies at the annual Celebration of Art at the Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center.

Celebration of Art

The Celebration of Art, is an annual public presentation and recognition of aspiring young artists which has become a significant tradition in the Cave Creek community. Its origin was in the “Jeff Cross Memorial” – as it was then called which took place in the very early 1980’s. It was presented by the Cave Creek Craft Council (the forerunner of the Sonoran Arts League), and paid tribute to Jeff Cross, who had played a crucial role in the creation of the Craft Council. This memorial arts show was initiated and funded by the Cross family and Harmony Hollow Bell Works, in memory of the “Folk Bell Founder of Cave Creek.” It is not happenstance that a bell of Jeff’s own design with “JEFF CROSS MADE ME” cast into its bronze is the grand prize of the Celebration of Art, in continuance of the practice begun over four decades ago. Its ringing gives voice to the success and promise of the premier artist in this annual arts competition.

Robin Ray, an art teacher in Cave Creek schools, organized and oversaw this annual memorial for decades, under the auspices of the school system. Through her dedication and admirable efforts, the event thrived, grew, and matured into today’s Celebration of Art.

For over 40 years, the Cross family and Harmony Hollow Bell Works have funded and facilitated this wonderful community affair; many of these years, they were the sole funders. Fortunately, over the decades, a growing number of helpers and promoters have lent their support, including Kiwanis Club of Carefree and Lori and Steve Greenberg. This is a development the Crosses are very pleased to see.

The Celebration of Art takes place every Spring at the Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center.

Youth Art Classes & Summer Camps

The Sonoran Arts League Studio offers engaging art classes, hands-on workshops, and summer camps designed to spark creativity and inspire young artists. Led by professional Sonoran Arts League artists, students explore new materials and techniques, develop their skills, and discover the joy of creating in a welcoming environment.

Youth art classes are offered for the following age groups:

• Kindergarten – 3rd Grade
• 4th – 6th Grade
• 7th – 8th Grade

Youth Art Summer Camps
Our summer camps offer students in Kindergarten through 6th Grade a fun, hands-on creative adventure! Campers explore exciting weekly themes, experiment with different art materials, and make new creations along the way.

High School Volunteer Opportunities
Students in grades 9–12 can get involved by volunteering to assist our youth art instructors. Beginning in 2027, these opportunities will offer teens a chance to gain hands-on experience, stay connected to the arts, and encourage younger artists.

Hidden In The Hills – Studio 1 

Art Education and Program Support

The Youth Art program is generously supported by the Kiwanis Club of Carefree Benefit Foundation.