The changing of seasons is a time to mark the distinction between one time of year and another as reflected in Nature. Even though in Arizona high temperatures will continue into October, we mark the end of summer at the end of August.

At this time of change of the season is a good time to consider what was accomplished over the last period and what may be accomplished or enjoyed in the coming period.

Since May your Arizona Artists Guild Leadership Team has been busy preparing for the coming season of Meeting Programs, Guild School of Art Workshops and Exhibitions.There have also been some new efforts including the inauguration of the Veterans Art Outreach Program, and a new website for the Guild. The ongoing activities such as Open Studio, Art Supply Exchange and Life Drawing continue to be a real AAG benefit. .

There have also been some new efforts including the inauguration of the Veterans Art Outreach Program, and a new website for the Guild. The ongoing activities such as Open Studio, Art Supply Exchange and Life Drawing, continue to be a real AAG benefit. .

On the downside there have been some unfortunate examples of negativity over the summer in the form of vandalism to windows on the west side of the building that have necessitated the installation of rolling shutters over the doors on the west and east sides, not to mention considerable expense.

The leaks around the north facing clerestory windows have been fixed which were inexpensive solutions to a possible serious repair situation.

None of theses activities could have happened without volunteers stepping up to put aside their own priorities. This is the foundation of a strong volunteer organization. I understand there are many reasons an individual joins an organization like AAG, but no one joins an organization and stays with it without feeling that the organization is dynamic and responsive. It is my hope that you will continue to be an active participant in making the Arizona Artists Guild a vital part of your community.

The new website is an effort to provide information to you as members about upcoming activities in a stimulating and engaging format, and to make non members aware of the quality of activities provided by the organization as well. Take a few moments to explore the website and let me know what you think. By subscribing to the website you can make “posts” that will appear on the newsletter page so you can submit notices about art related events and activities that other AAG members want to know about, as well as commenting on the articles found on the website. It will also be evolving over time to reflect those suggestions and be more responsive to the needs of the AAG membership.

The Veterans Art Outreach Program has gotten off to a great start. A total of 17 Vets have participated in the three sessions as of this writing. The focus has been on the foundational skills needed in visual art, starting with an awareness of compositional elements and the principles and elements of design. Upcoming sessions will explore photography for the artist, collage, poured painting and drawing/painting the figure. If you want to participate by assisting the Vets with their lessons during a session or if you would like to teach a lesson, send me an email at: info@arizonaartistsguild.net.

“You must take personal responsibility. You cannot change the circumstances, the seasons, or the wind, but you can change yourself. That is something you have charge of.” Jim Rohn

David Bradley 

President , AAG