What's Happening!
Celebrating the Legacy of Al Beadle
A thrilling new chapter in Arizona’s architectural history is unfolding in Arcadia! Earlier this year, the Shemer Art Center was selected to receive iconic elements from one of the most celebrated mid-century modern homes in the state, the legendary “White Gates” residence on Camelback Mountain, designed in the 1950s by the visionary architect Al Beadle,which was demolished. Plans are now underway at the Shemer Art Center to utilize these materials to create the White Gates Pavilion. Fans and enthusiasts of Al Beadle will have a one-of-a-kind opportunity to show their support of his work in a dynamic public art space, a stone’s throw from the home’s original location, nestled in the same Camelback Mountain neighborhood.
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. Its mission is to support and showcase Arizona artists. It is also a home for the arts that provides a unique and inviting atmosphere for residents and visitors to learn about, experience and enjoy 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 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!
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The Shemer Art Center is proud to be supported by the City of Phoenix Arts & Culture Department, as well as the Arizona Commission on the Arts.
