Youth Art Program

The Sonoran Arts League is committed to advancing art and art education, with a special focus on mentoring youth with the belief that arts training helps develop the abilities to focus and strengthens cognitive skills in young people. The Sonoran Arts League fosters artistic growth in the following ways:

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 incentive 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

Adventures in Art (2nd – 6th grade) introduces young artists  to new materials, techniques, and creative experiences. Led by professional Sonoran Arts League artists, students build confidence, explore their imagination, and discover the joy of creating.

Art Quest (6th – 12th grade) inspires students to explore new techniques, strengthen their artistic skills, and develop their creative voice. Led by professional Sonoran Arts League artists, participants are encouraged to experiment, create, and grow with confidence.

Together We Create  is a hands-on workshop series designed for students in Kindergarten through 3rd Grade and 4th through 6th Grade to create alongside a parent, grandparent, or another special adult. Led by professional Sonoran Arts League artists, each workshop encourages creativity, connection, and making lasting memories through art.

Youth Art Summer Camp (K – 6th Grade) offers a fun, hands-on creative adventure where campers explore exciting weekly themes through art. Led by professional Sonoran Arts League artists, students create, learn, and make lasting memories while discovering the joy of art.

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.