Literary Journal

Scottsdale Arts

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Journals & literary magazines1 open opportunity listed

About the magazine

Scottsdale Arts, founded in 1987 as the Scottsdale Cultural Council, serves as the umbrella organization for the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts, the Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA), and the Scottsdale Public Art program. Its founding ethos is rooted in a commitment to enriching the cultural life of the region through diverse, high-quality arts experiences that bridge performance, visual art, and public engagement. Over three decades, it has evolved into a multidisciplinary institution that balances presenting international touring artists with nurturing local and emerging voices, while maintaining a distinct focus on contemporary art and community dialogue. The organization's mission centers on connecting artists and audiences through innovative programming, educational outreach, and public art initiatives that reflect the dynamic character of Scottsdale and the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. SMoCA, in particular, has gained recognition for its adventurous exhibitions that often feature under-recognized artists and timely thematic group shows, while the Center for the Performing Arts hosts a wide array of music, dance, theater, and comedy. Scottsdale Public Art commissions and maintains a growing collection of site-specific works that integrate art into the urban fabric, reinforcing the institution's belief in art as a public good.

Submitting your work

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Artists should first identify the specific program or venue within Scottsdale Arts that aligns with their practice—SMoCA for contemporary visual art, the Center for Performing Arts for live performance, or Scottsdale Public Art for site-specific commissions. Each has distinct submission processes and timelines. For SMoCA, proposals are typically reviewed by curatorial staff; unsolicited submissions are accepted but should include a concise artist statement, CV, and 10–15 images of recent work with a clear connection to the museum's mission. The Center for the Performing Arts generally works through booking agents and presenters, though local artists may inquire about community engagement opportunities. Public Art projects are often commissioned through open calls or RFQs posted on the website. It is advisable to research past programming to ensure a fit, and to approach with professionalism and patience, as response times can vary. Scottsdale Arts values projects that engage the community and reflect the region's diversity.