DeGrazia Gallery in Sun- Tucson, AZ

I had never heard of Ettore DeGrazia before visiting his Gallery in the Sun. It was a cold day in the desert, and I was looking for something to do. What I found was almost transcendent. Admittedly, some of his pieces feel dated (creepy, large eyed children), but the gallery itself is a visually stunning work of genius.

Constructed by DeGrazia himself in 1965, the adobe building feels almost fluid. Deeply organic in nature, with an inlaid cactus stone walkway, it is soft space, with muted colors, and a lot of texture. Featuring several smaller galleries around an open air courtyard, it is an intimate experience, which invites visitors to linger in each space, appreciating not only the art, but the gallery’s unique architectural attributes. 

The property also features the artist’s former residence, workshop, and a lovely historic mission, which were all listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2006.