Fine art for all I f your idea of a perfect day involves strolling through gallery spaces, discovering a piece that stops you in your tracks…maybe even spotting a sleek Italian sports car parked beside museum-quality artwork, Scottsdale has an event that blends all three. Scottsdale Art Week is one of the region’s most anticipated cultural gatherings, offering an approachable way to experience high-caliber art without needing to board a plane to New York or Europe. Designed to welcome seasoned collectors and curious first timers, the four-day fair celebrates creativity and the Valley’s growing role in the art world. Scottsdale Art Week made its debut in March 2025, drawing strong attendance and attention right out of the gate. In 2026, the event will feature more than 120 galleries. “This is a world-class fair that brings together leading galleries from around the world for a four-day celebration,” Director and Co-Owner Amy Gause said. “The event showcases museum-quality works across a wide range of styles and periods, creating an accessible yet elevated experience for collectors, designers, and art lovers.” Long known for its Western heritage and gallery district, Scottsdale has become a destination for serious collectors and design professionals searching for unique, statement-making pieces. Visitors can expect to see a range of artistic styles, mediums and price points under one roof. While some pieces reach into six-figure territory, others are accessible for new collectors hoping to purchase their first original artwork. “Attendees can explore thousands of original works of art, including paintings, sculpture, photography, and mixed media,” Gause said. “The fair Scottsdale Art Week takes over iconic WestWorld in March 12 Spring 2026 PHOTOS COURTESY OF AMY GAUSE

features blue-chip art, contemporary and historical works, Western art, and contemporary Indigenous artists, offering something for collectors and first- time buyers.” From monumental sculptures to historically significant pieces, the event creates an environment where visitors can engage in a way that feels educational and approachable. Works range from traditional materials like oil and bronze to experimental and mixed-media creations that push artistic boundaries. While the event proudly highlights Arizona talent, Scottsdale Art Week casts a wider net. “This year we have 14 countries with galleries exhibiting,” Gause said. That global presence allows attendees to experience art and design perspectives from around the world while still celebrating the Southwest’s distinctive voice. The fair will partner with Scottsdale Ferrari for the second installment. While the name may suggest a hybrid car and art event, the collaboration is more about celebrating design as an art form. “Scottsdale Art Week is an art fair, not a car show,” Gause said. “The Ferraris on display are integrated into the space as works of art in their own right, adding a unique visual and experiential element.” The combination has proven popular. Several Ferraris displayed during the inaugural event were even purchased, underscoring how automotive craftsmanship can share the spotlight alongside fine art. For Gause, the event represents a long-standing passion for expanding the region’s artistic influence. “I’ve spent the last 25 years of my career in the art world, both nationally and regionally, and have traveled extensively to art fairs,” she said. “During that time, it became clear to me that Scottsdale was ready for an event of this caliber.” Her enthusiasm for the project stems from personal experience and a broader vision for the city’s cultural identity. “We have a sophisticated collector base, a distinct cultural identity, and a continued influx of wealth. We were the only major city in America without an international art fair,” Gause said. “I’m passionate about promoting the arts of our region and city on both a national and international level, so we can continue building the credibility Scottsdale deserves.” While the paintings and sculptures draw visitors through the doors, Gause said the most meaningful moments often happen through conversation and discovery. “Seeing the connections that happen on the gallery floor, whether it’s with collectors discovering artists for the first time, artists connecting with new audiences, and the energy that comes from bringing so many creative voices together in one place… it’s truly energizing,” she said. That interaction is part of what makes this event unique. Visitors can speak directly with gallery representatives, learn about artists’ creative processes and gain insight into collecting and displaying art in their own homes. “Scottsdale Art Week is about accessibility, discovery, and quality,” Gause said. “Whether you’re a serious collector, a design professional, or simply curious, the fair offers an opportunity to experience world-class artwork in a dynamic, welcoming environment.” Scottsdale Art Week returns March 19-22 at WestWorld of Scottsdale, located in the North Hall. Tickets begin at $40 for adults and $20 for students, with free admission for 12 and under. scottsdaleartweek.com BEGINNER-FRIENDLY COLLECTION TIPS: • The most important rule of collecting is choosing artwork that resonates with you. If a piece makes you pause, sparks emotion or complements your home’s design style, it’s worth considering. • Not every purchase needs to be a statement piece. Works on paper, photography and smaller original pieces are often more affordable and can be just as impactful. • Gallery representatives and artists are typically happy to share insight about materials, inspiration and care. Learning the story behind a piece often makes it more meaningful. • Consider where artwork will live in your home. Large statement pieces can anchor living rooms or entryways, while smaller works can create gallery walls or add personality to unexpected spaces like hallways or kitchens. • Combining paintings, sculpture, photography and mixed media can add depth and interest to a collection over time. • Art collecting should feel exciting, not stressful. Decide what you’re comfortable spending and remember that collections grow gradually. 13 Art collectors and first-time buyers explore thousands of original works displayed inside WestWorld of Scottsdale.