With its mild winters and temperate summers, Prescott is known as one of the premier retirement destinations in Arizona. What may surprise you, however, is that Prescott is also home to a lively local visual art scene. From shops to galleries to local restaurants, the town embraces the arts. In addition to the local galleries and museums, Prescott offers annual festivals, monthly art walks, and numerous art education opportunities. We’ve highlighted some of the more notable events below for those of you interested in joining Dorn Homes in supporting the arts.

Mountain Artists Guild

Founded by Mabel Laurence and Cowboy Artist George Phippen in 1949, the Mountain Artists Guild is the most active art group in Prescott. This non-profit organization is dedicated to providing education, support and training in all aspects of the visual arts through exhibits, workshops, seminars, and practical experience in the creation of artistic works. The Mountain Artists Guild is responsible for several annual art shows in Prescott and offers educational classes as well as a gallery that hosts the work of local emerging artists.

Prescott Fine Art & Wine Festival

The Prescott Fine Art & Wine Festival is one of the Mountain Artists Guild’s annual events. This weekend art festival takes place every Mother’s Day weekend in Prescott’s Courthouse Square and celebrated its 31^st year this past May. In addition to collectors’ artwork the Festival presents an Arizona wine garden and marketplace as well as food and packaged cottage edibles. The proceeds from this event benefit the Mountain Artists Guild.

Prescott Arts & Crafts Festival

The 67^th Annual Prescott Arts & Crafts Festival will take place August 12^th & 13^th this year. This juried festival showcases a select group of artisans and crafters under the tall trees that shade the Historic Courthouse Plaza. The Festival is open to the public and admission is free. This event, like the Prescott Fine Art & Wine Festival, is managed by the Mountain Artists Guild. 

Prescott 4th Friday Art Walk

Prescott, Arizona features the 4^th Friday Art Walk every month of the year showcasing regional & international photography, painting, sculpture, jewelry & wearable art. Hours vary by season and there are too many participating shops, galleries, and restaurants to list here. 

Phippen Museum

The Phippen Museum, whose namesake George Phippen founded the Mountain Artists Guild and served as the first president of the Cowboy Artists of America, is a fine arts museum that exhibits cowboy and Native American-themed works tracing the culture of the west. The Museum offers permanent exhibits featuring the work of George Phippen as well as rotating exhibits that emphasize art focusing on western culture. The Phippen Museum also hosts events like the Third Thursday Dinner & Program which provides attendees with delicious dinner selections in a wonderful atmosphere and features some of the most entertaining guests imaginable. From re-enactors and musicians, to artists and historians, their special programming leaves a lasting impression on all those in attendance and keeps them coming back for more. 

Chalk it Up! Prescott

Chalk it Up! Prescott is an annual sidewalk chalk art event that invites the public to come to the National Bank of Arizona in Prescott and put their chalk art talents on display. The festival also hosts local performers and visiting chalk art experts from around the country. The event (and your first box of chalk) is free to the public courtesy of the event sponsors. 

Dorn Homes is a proud supporter of the art community here in Prescott, and we invite you to contribute as well. Whether it’s making donations, volunteering, or simply participating, your support will help the visual arts in Prescott continue to thrive.