DeGrazia Museum in Tucson: Uncover 40 Years of Artistic Legacy

10,000 Masterpieces, One Inspiring Destination

Discover the captivating DeGrazia Museum in Tucson, Arizona, home to the largest collection of American artist Ted DeGrazia's remarkable creations. Immerse yourself in a breathtaking journey of over 10,000 paintings, sculptures, and artifacts that celebrate the beauty of the Southwest.

A Life Dedicated to Art

DeGrazia, born in Morenci, Arizona, in 1909, began his artistic journey as a young boy inspired by the vibrant colors and rugged landscapes of his surroundings. He spent decades honing his skills, eventually establishing his home and studio in the foothills of Tucson.

His passion for art was fueled by a deep connection to Native American culture. He spent countless hours studying their traditions, incorporating elements of their symbolism and spirituality into his own work.

The DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

In 1965, DeGrazia opened his first gallery in the historic Mission San Xavier del Bac area. As his popularity grew, he expanded into a larger space in the Tucson Mountains in 1976. This became the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a sprawling complex that houses the vast majority of his collection.

The Gallery is a testament to DeGrazia's prolificacy. It features:

• Over 15,000 paintings, ranging from intimate sketches to monumental canvases
• Hundreds of bronze and ceramic sculptures
• An extensive collection of jewelry, textiles, and other personal artifacts

DeGrazia's Artistic Style: A Southwest Symphony

DeGrazia's unique style, often characterized as "Desert Modernism," captures the essence of the Southwest. His paintings are vibrant and expressive, featuring:

• Bold use of color inspired by the Sonoran Desert landscape
• Stylized figures and imagery derived from Native American legends
• A sense of movement and rhythm that reflects the region's dynamism

Discover DeGrazia's Desert Heritage

1. Mission in the Sun: Explore the life and work of Ted DeGrazia through interactive exhibits, film screenings, and guided tours.

2. Desert Garden: Wander through DeGrazia's lush desert garden, where native plants and vibrant art installations coexist in harmony.

3. Sculpture Courtyard: Admire large-scale bronze sculptures by DeGrazia and other renowned artists set against the backdrop of the Tucson Mountains.

4. Kiva Chapel: Experience the spiritual side of DeGrazia's art in this serene chapel adorned with intricate murals and stained glass windows.

Art and Community: DeGrazia's Legacy

DeGrazia's commitment to his community was as strong as his passion for art. He established the DeGrazia Foundation in 1979 to support emerging artists and promote artistic education.

Educational Programs: The DeGrazia Museum offers a wide range of classes, workshops, and lectures for all ages, inspiring creativity and fostering a love of art.

Community Outreach: The Museum actively engages with the Tucson community through outreach programs, partnerships with local schools, and support for arts-related organizations.

National Recognition: DeGrazia's impact extends far beyond Tucson. His paintings are featured in museums and galleries across the United States and internationally.

Plan Your Visit

1. Admission:

• Adults: $15
• Seniors (65+): $12
• Students (with ID): $10
• Children (5-12): $5
• Children under 5: Free

2. Hours:

• Monday-Sunday: 10am-4pm

3. Location:

• 6300 N Swan Rd
• Tucson, AZ 85718

4. Contact:

• Phone: (520) 299-9191
• Email: [email protected]

Tables

Table 1: DeGrazia Museum Collection

Table 2: DeGrazia Museum Educational Programs

Table 3: DeGrazia Museum Outreach Initiatives

Table 4: DeGrazia Museum Awards and Recognition