Art State Arizona

Art State Arizona is a nonprofit reimagining what’s possible when arts and culture are treated not as luxuries—but as essential infrastructure. Since its founding in 1997, Art State Arizona, formerly the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance, has grown from a local arts council into a regional leader advancing creativity as a powerful force for community health, economic vitality, and social connection.

Rooted in Southern Arizona’s rich cultural landscape, Art State Arizona was created to address a critical need: ensuring that artists and creatives have meaningful opportunities to sustain their work and share it with the community. Today, we unite artists, educators, businesses, healthcare partners, and community leaders to deliver collaborative, arts-driven experiences that strengthen the bonds between people, place, and purpose.

From vibrant festivals and public art installations to creative workforce development and accessible arts education, Art State Arizona has produced more than 200,000 arts experiences—creating pathways for artists to thrive while enriching the lives of residents across the region. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to building an Arizona where creativity fuels well-being, innovation, and a more connected, inspired community.

Catalyst Creative Collective: The Catalyst Creative Collective is a dynamic community hub designed to inspire and empower collaboration across the creative spectrum. Located within the Tucson Mall, Catalyst spans over 14,000 square feet of versatile space, providing a home for artists, creatives, educators, and cross-sector organizations.

How We Make an Impact:

Events & Festivals – Celebrating arts, music, food, and culture through dynamic community gatherings.

Business & Arts Partnerships – Connecting artists and businesses through innovative branding, live performances, and public art.

Catalyst Creative Collective – A 14,000 sq. ft. space fostering learning, performance, and collaboration across 30+ creative disciplines.

Placemaking – Transforming public spaces with murals and interactive art installations.

Arts & Cultural Resource – Publishing Undercover Arts Magazine to promote 1,300+ artists and arts organizations.

Creative Aging – Partnering with hospitals and senior care facilities to provide free arts programs for older adults.

Testimonials

"As a public artist, I connect color and creativity with community and culture. My mission is to build and support a strong local identity while emphasizing the importance of artwork and how central it is in our everyday lives. Art State Arizona has not only helped me achieve my vision throughout the years, but has also supported my growth as an artist by providing a variety of opportunities to participate in ranging from custom events, to culture-driven festivals, to large-scale public art projects. One thing's for certain, Art State AZ ensures that Arizona continues to be a destination location for colorful, creative works of art that reflect the cultural diversity of our modern world." - Jesse Perry, Professional Artist

"Art State Arizona has provided our band, Little House of Funk, with the opportunity to connect with our community in meaningful ways. For example, when we perform at the Premium Outlet, young families, seniors, and shoppers from diverse backgrounds sit on the lawn and often dance. Without Art State Arizona , we wouldn't be able to reach such a heterogeneous population. Playing at both the Fountains and the VA offers us a chance to lift spirits and provide a balm to ease the stressors of aging and illness. It is both an honor and a privilege to perform at an Art State Arizona  sponsored event." - Connie Brannock, Musician, Community Leader & Veteran

"Catalyst is exactly what it says it is, a space that sparks change, not just in art, but in the people making it. It’s a place where artists can show up fully, be seen, and be heard without fear or judgment, where vulnerability isn’t weakness, but the fuel for connection. Being in that space reminds me how powerful the arts are in bringing people together, breaking down walls, and building a community that’s not just creative, but fiercely human. Supporting Catalyst isn’t just supporting art; it’s supporting a space where people can truly be themselves and grow together."

~Marz (Syir), Filmmaker, Rapper, Artist

"We have strived to hone our songwriting craft and presentation so that audiences feel what we feel during our performances.  Art State Arizona has provided the opportunity for us and other singer songwriters to do just that.  The support they provide for the arts in our community is invaluable, and enhances us all through sharing creativity and the sense of belonging it brings.  We appreciate the work that Art State Arizona does and believe it is important and beneficial to both the artists and the lovers of the arts."   - David & Kelly Hanshaw, The Hanshaws