Practice

Each work of art has a voice, it speaks to each of us in unique ways. Exhibitions and Public Art bring creative voices together to present a beautiful, visual symphony.

Yaqui Alleyway Beautification

Scottsdale, Arizona – 2008 – 2013
scale: 150’w x 7’h

materials: Nova exterior mural paints, fired ceramic photo tiles, fired/glazed sculptural ceramic elements.

This large mixed-media mural depicts the Yaqui Indian migration from interior Mexico into Arizona. Yaquis played a key role in the construction of the Arizona canal system that we benefit from today.

The murals share the stories, challenges and unique cultural contributions of this dedicated tribe. Community at-large joined with tribal members in the painting and ceramic workshops facilitated by Joan & Yaqui artist, Mario Martinez. The alleyway serves as an access walkway & destination site.

Visitors can also explore the adjacent Vista Del Camino Community Center & Eldorado Park. Today, Yaquis of Arizona live in Tucson, Guadalupe & Scottsdale, representing a significant element of Arizona history. Archived photographs continue to be provided to the artists by Yaqui families throughout Arizona. The photographs are installed within the murals on custom glazed tiles. Executed in black and white they are exquisitely detailed. Mario Martinez, a gifted painter and former resident of Penjamo Village in South Scottsdale, now resides in New York City. His contributions to this project add a unique and distinctive abstract expressionist style to these walls.