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The Arts Alliance of the White Mountains has something for everyone.

What do you get when you mix the breathtaking landscapes of the White Mountains with a never-ending supply of talent? You get the Art Alliance of the White Mountains, or AAWM, as it’s affectionately known. The Art Alliance has become the place for the White Mountain’s creativity to converge.

The organization began with a few key members who realized that this incredible region had a powerful common voice. That voice is art, which can impact a region’s cultural wealth. And since art cannot happen in a vacuum, artists of this area formed a group to help celebrate and promote the arts in our isolated community.

Founding member Ken Hosie prepared a vision statement and coined the organization’s name before their first official meeting attended by eight local artists and business leaders in the area. On May 1, 1999, now at eighty-plus members, the group celebrated its mission publicly at the campus of Northland Pioneer College. It would be several more years before AAWM would find a permanent home, but this vibrant group still planned shows and events throughout the White Mountains.

In 2013 AAWM became a 501(c)3 non-profit and found a home. The building, located at 251 N. Penrod Rd in Show Low, was once a county building, and through the generosity of Navajo Count, the building is leased for a low annual sum. AAWM covers the utilities.

I first noticed the glass exterior when my husband and I pulled up. Light being the visual artist’s familiar, the building embraces that feeling. A cheerful painting of wildflowers on the building’s west side is among the first things a visitor will see. Upon entering, you are greeted by one of the many volunteers who make the space beckon to be explored.

The gallery begins to the left of the main desk. This large open space houses works of sculpture, paintings, Jewelry, and glass. The center’s current show is displayed here. Walking around the circular atrium, the walls are adorned with groupings from local members. Styles range from classical landscapes to whimsical and thought-provoking abstract art, and everything in between grace the walls. Everything from wood carvings to ceramics on pedestals is scattered throughout the space. Most works displayed can be purchased. A small portion of each sale returns to AAWM to help with costs.

Fine art is not the only item; the performing arts also find shelter here. To the back of the main gallery is a stage where different performance events take place. On June 17th, the International Western Music Association is holding the Arizona chapter’s Cowboy Poetry and Music event. The festivities begin at 1 PM and go until 4 PM admission is free.

As you wind your way around the main space, you come to a hallway with several rooms on either side. Take your time and enjoy these unique vignettes from the artists that share these spaces. Each artist has their Bio displayed along with some recent works.

AAWM also offers classes, workshops, and other opportunities for artists and authors, whether beginner or seasoned professionals, to gather and exchange ideas, tips, and feedback. This includes a free weekly “Art with Friends” day, a twice-monthly writer’s workshop, and a monthly Healing Arts group. AAWM also offers a monthly event with musical entertainment and refreshments for locals and visitors alike to socialize and be surrounded by incredible art. This year they introduced a “Wine with Writer’s” event where authors and those interested in writing may gather socially over wine and light hors d’oeuvres and discuss various topics of interest and published works.

VISIT THE GALLERY AND PERHAPS BECOME AN INDIVIDUAL

OR BUSINESS MEMBER!

MEMBERS ENJOY THESE BENEFITS:

• Invited to all events at the Center for the Arts.

• Early bird spots for classes and workshops.

• 10% off supplies and framing at Kittle’s Fine Art and Supplies in Show Low

• Opportunity to hang your art or display your books in the gallery or gift shop (hanging fee or volunteer hours required).

• Free participation in Art with Friends, Circle of Healing Arts, and Writers Group.

BUSINESS MEMBERSHIP RECEIVES ALL THE BENEFITS ABOVE PLUS:

• Free one-time use of the Center for a business meeting (must be scheduled with the Center).

• Discounted hourly rate for a business meeting (must be scheduled with

the Center).