Attraction Guide: DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, Tucson, United States

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Guide

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun: Where Art Meets the Desert Guide

Escape the ordinary and step into the vibrant world of Ettore "Ted" DeGrazia at the Gallery in the Sun. This unique Tucson landmark is more than just an art gallery; it's a sprawling 10-acre estate built in the Spanish Colonial style, showcasing DeGrazia's colorful paintings, sculptures, and ceramics. Prepare to be captivated by the artist's distinctive style, which celebrates the culture and spirit of the Southwest. DeGrazia, born in 1909, was a self-taught artist who drew inspiration from the Native American and Mexican cultures of the region. He built the Gallery in the Sun in the 1950s as a place to live, work, and display his art. The gallery complex includes a mission, a museum, and a gift shop, all designed and built by DeGrazia himself. His art often depicts children, Native American life, and the beauty of the desert landscape. He famously removed his paintings from museums in protest of inheritance tax laws affecting artists' estates, further solidifying his independent spirit. A visit to the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun offers a variety of activities. Wander through the adobe buildings, admiring DeGrazia's art and the unique architecture. Explore the Mission in the Sun, a small chapel built by DeGrazia as a tribute to Father Kino. Take a stroll through the grounds, enjoying the desert flora and fauna. The gallery also hosts events and workshops throughout the year. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop for a souvenir of your visit. While there isn't a specific culinary tradition associated with the gallery itself, you'll find plenty of delicious Southwestern cuisine in nearby Tucson.