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Art Lives Here!

A City of Phoenix Point of Pride

What's Happening!

If you are interested in showing your support of the arts, giving back to the community, and strengthening the legacy of the Shemer Art Center in Arcadia, click HERE for more information about our current Expansion & Legacy Campaign, and to see our video with Mayor Gallego!

Shemer in the News

An article in Home and Garden Magazine highlights the Shemer Art Center, a cultural gem in Phoenix, Arizona. The piece explores its beautifully landscaped grounds, vibrant art exhibitions, and engaging workshops. The center, housed in a historic 1920s building, serves as a hub for local artists and art enthusiasts, celebrating creativity in a serene environment.

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What We Offer

ADULT CLASSES

YOUTH CLASSES

WORKSHOPS

ART LECTURES

EXHIBITIONS

EVENTS

ICONIC

 

One of the first homes built in Arcadia

The Shemer Art Center is located at the southeast corner of Camelback Road and East Arcadia Drive (48th Street) in Phoenix. Set at the base of Camelback Mountain, the site offers panoramic views of the beautiful Arcadia neighborhood, framed by a touch of nostalgia.

In 1919, developers led by Seymour Jordan formed the Arcadia Water Company and began drilling wells with the intent to sell homesites in the newly named Arcadia neighborhood. To house the foreman of the water company, the first home in Arcadia was built.

In July 1984, long-time Phoenix resident and real estate investor Martha Shemer purchased the twice-renovated, Sante-Fe mission-style home and land. Working with Mayor Terry Goddard, Mrs. Shemer donated the home to the City of Phoenix, not only to preserve the historical property but also to ensure it was used as a community center for city residents.

Today, the Shemer Art Center has become a cultural center for all ages. It is a “home for the arts” that provides a unique and inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors to enjoy and learn about visual art, through classes, lectures, workshops, exhibits and events. Areas of instruction offered year-round by professional teaching artists include drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, fused glass, mixed media, photography and jewelry-making. Additional features of the Shemer Art Center include a boutique gift shop plus an outdoor sculpture garden, both featuring beautiful, one-of-a-kind works of art created by some of Arizona’s most talented artists, for viewing and for sale.

There is no doubt that “Art Lives Here!” In 1992 the Shemer Art Center was designated as one of the City of Phoenix’s Points of Pride. It was named “One of the 10 Best Museums in Phoenix” by USA Today and “One of Phoenix’s 10 Best Kept Secrets” by The Culture Trip!

What Others Say...

I really enjoyed my volunteer shifts this week at Shemer Art Center’s Summer Camp. Having taught youth cooking camps, I was impressed with the organization of the art camp and the quality of your teachers and staff. All the students were so engaged and I could tell they were getting a lot out of the program.

Terri M.Great Art Camp volunteer experience