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As the Arizona sun blazes in full force, finding ways to stay cool while indulging in enriching activities is essential. This summer, immerse yourself in the captivating world of art and culture by visiting three distinct exhibitions across Arizona. From the iconic Barbie brand at the Phoenix Art Museum to the inspiring legacy of Cesar Chavez in Tucson, and the thought-provoking works at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Barbie®: A Cultural Icon Exhibition at Phoenix Art Museum
Step into a world of nostalgia and fashion at the Phoenix Art Museum with the “Barbie®: A Cultural Icon Exhibition.” This major exhibition delves into Barbie’s 60+ year history and her global impact on pop culture. Featuring over 250 vintage dolls, including the original Barbie, the exhibition showcases life-size fashion designs, exclusive interviews, and narrative sections that explore the various style trends, careers, and identities Barbie has embodied over the decades. Complementing this exhibition is “The Power of Pink,” an original PhxArt exhibition that explores the history, science, and associations of the color synonymous with Barbie. This vibrant display is drawn exclusively from the Museum’s expansive fashion-design collection.
For those looking for an affordable visit, Phoenix Art Museum offers a Pay-What-You-Wish program on Wednesdays from 3-9 PM, making it an accessible option for all art enthusiasts.
Corazon del Campo at Tucson’s Community Room
Head to Tucson’s Community Room to experience “Corazon del Campo,” an exhibition celebrating the legacy of Cesar Chavez, a civil rights and labor movement activist honored annually on March 31 with a federal commemorative holiday proclaimed by President Barack Obama in 2014. The exhibition is divided into two installments: the first features pieces by artists who had a direct connection with Cesar Chavez, while the second showcases works inspired by his activism, life, and legacy.
This exhibition offers a unique opportunity to connect with the heart and soul of Chavez’s mission, highlighting the profound impact he had on the labor movement and civil rights. It’s a reflective and inspiring way to honor Chavez’s contributions while staying cool indoors.
Oleaje at Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art
Discover the hidden ripples of global mining and trade at the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art through “Oleaje [Groundswell],” a new large-scale installation by San Francisco-based, Bolivian-born artist Carolina Aranibar-Fernández. This exhibition accentuates the reliance of the mining and trade industry on forced access to natural resources and human labor supplied by marginalized communities.
Aranibar-Fernández’s work, rooted in extensive archival research and labor-intensive handmaking processes like etching, sewing, cutting, and printing, translates complex movements of resources on a global scale into vibrant, finely rendered impressions of cartography and topography.
The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art also offers a Pay-What-You-Wish program on Thursdays, making it easy for visitors to explore these thought-provoking works without breaking the bank.
Beat the heat this summer by exploring these fascinating exhibitions across Arizona. Whether you’re a fan of iconic fashion, inspired by civil rights history, or intrigued by global trade and its impact, these museum exhibitions offer a cool retreat into the world of art and culture. So, pack your curiosity and visit the Phoenix Art Museum, Tucson’s Community Room, and the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art for an unforgettable experience. These exhibitions not only provide a break from the scorching heat but also offer a deep dive into diverse and impactful stories that shape our world. With affordable options like Pay-What-You-Wish days, there’s no reason to miss out on these enriching cultural experiences.