Summer is flying by and it’s hard to believe it is time for another inspiring year of exhibitions, classes, workshops and programs. Our dedicated staff is hard at work finalizing an incredible lineup of events and opportunities — and we are excited to share them with you.

Since 2022, Sedona Arts Center has embraced an annual unifying theme to inspire our exhibitions and programs. For the 2025/2026 season, our guiding theme is FACE(S) — a word rich with meaning as both noun and verb.

From the human visage to the surface of mountains, from emotional expressions to bold acts of confrontation, FACE(S) invites endless interpretations. You will see this woven throughout our exhibitions, programs and events — shaping a vibrant season of not-to-be missed arts experiences.

Our season opens with The Face of Time, a juried exhibition that delves into the emotional and visual power of portraiture. Artists will examine the passage of time through the lens of the human or animal face — revealing how age, experience, memory and transformation are etched into every line and glance.

Join us for an artist’s reception Friday, Aug. 1, from 4 to 6 p.m., alongside Celebrate Sedona. Enjoy an afternoon of artist demonstrations, live music, food, beer and wine. The exhibition is on view through Friday, Sept. 12 in our Special Exhibition Gallery.

Did you know that the arts are great for your health? Research shows that creative engagement may improve health, cognitive function, memory and improve self-esteem and well-being. A landmark 2006 study by the National Endowment for the Arts confirmed the relationship between creative expression and healthy aging. At SAC, we are proud to lead the way in Northern Arizona by prioritizing lifelong creative discovery.

I invite you to join me, along with artists Claire Obermarck, Ed Buonvecchio and Patricia Saxton, beginning Thursday, Sept. 18 and continuing through Monday, Oct. 13, for SAC’s Creative Aging Sample Class. Held on Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon, this class is open to participants 55 and older as well as their caregivers who are interested in tapping into their creativity and trying out different art forms including storytelling, drawing, painting and more in a welcoming space — no art experience is necessary. Visit sedonaartscenter.org/programs for more information.

September featured fall workshops include Painting a Bold, Colorful Southwestern Landscape with award-winning artist Joe A. Oakes on Saturday, Sept. 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Open to all skill levels, students will paint a beautiful mountain landscape of Arizona using bright and unexpected colors.

In Alternative Firing Workshop with C.J. Henderson, on Sundays, Sept. 14 and 21, beginners and experienced potters alike will explore a variety of finishes including Raku, Saggar and Obvara to create beautifully adorned surfaces.

Finally, Crystal Marie will instruct Vessel: Exploration of Sculptural Designs in Paper and Mixed Media Friday through Sunday, Sept. 26 through 28. Students will discover their artistic voice in this inspiring workshop where ancient techniques meet contemporary artistry. Information on all our workshops and classes can be found on our website.

In October, SAC celebrates the world of plein air painting at the 21st annual Sedona Plein Air Festival, being held Monday through Sunday, Oct. 20 through 26. Two dozen of the nation’s top plein air artists will gather for a jam-packed week of outdoor fun in Sedona and the Verde Valley that includes artist demonstrations, paint outs, juried art competitions and, of course, the opportunity for attendees to buy one-of-a-kind masterpieces. There is so much to see and experience at this signature fall event. To view the current schedule, visit sedonapleinairfestival.org.

Are you an artist looking to connect or exhibit with SAC? We offer year-round opportunities for emerging, mid-career and established artists. Upcoming opportunities include the Holiday Artist Market Friday through Sunday, Dec. 5 through 7. This curated seasonal event features 25 artists showcasing one-of-a-kind functional artworks by Arizona artists. From fine art to artisan goods, it is the perfect chance to buy holiday gifts for family and friends while shopping local.

The deadline to apply is Wednesday, Oct. 1. The Juried Friends Show & Sale, held March 6 through April 15, returns with the theme, The Face of Friendship. Artists are invited to explore connection, collaboration and the emotional resonance of companionship through their artwork. Submissions may be individual or collaborative, literal or abstract — highlighting how friendship manifests in visual form. The deadline to apply is Feb. 1.

Whether you are a Sedona resident or just passing through, we can’t wait to welcome you to Sedona Arts Center this season. We promise unforgettable arts experiences for visitors near and far.

To learn more about our 2025/2026 season, visit sedonaartscenter.org.

Arts & Culture, written this week by Julie Richard, executive director of the Sedona Arts Center, appears periodically in The Scene.