Looking Forward to 2024 OPEN STUDIO TOURS

NOVEMBER 8, 9 &10

Immerse yourself in the rich cultural scene of Tucson and Pima County for the 2024 Open Studio Tours, presented by the Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona.

SHOWCASING LOCAL ARTISTS IN-PERSON AND ONLINE

Open Studio Tours (OST) is one of the largest self-guided showcases of artist studios and creative work spaces in the region, running for more than 10 years. Throughout its history, OST has allowed Tucson and Pima County’s artists to invite visitors into their studios, free-of-charge, giving the Southern Arizona community the opportunity to directly engage with local working artists, see where art is created, and learn more about each artist’s artistic processes.

Here is a description from their website.

The Arts Foundation provides funding and services to artists, organizations and community members residing in the City Tucson, Pima County, rural communities and Tribal Nations between the Gila River and the US Mexico Border. This includes Pima, Santa Cruz and Cochise counties and southern portions of Pinal, Yuma, Greenlee, Graham, Maricopa County, and Tribal Nations of Ak-Chin Indian Community, Sovereign Nation of the Cocopahs, Quechan Tribe of the Fort Yuma Indian Reservation, Gila River Indian Community, Pascua Yaqui Tribe, Tohono O’odham Nation, San Carlos Apache Nation. 

HISTORY

In 1971, a group of citizens came together to form the Tucson Council on the Arts; and organization to serve as a catalyst and information resource for cultural development.

The year 1984 marked the establishment of the Tucson Pima Arts Council (TPAC) as the arts council for the City of Tucson and Pima County, “the principal mechanism through which arts and cultural activities will be planned and carried out within the metropolitan area.”

In 2016, the Board of Directors voted to change the name of TPAC to The Arts Foundation for Tucson and Southern Arizona. This name change reflects the vision of the agency as one that serves a community and region rich in culture and committed to supporting the arts in both the public and private sectors within the Southern Arizona region.

In 2021, the Arts Foundation was able to provide resources to our full-service area including Tucson, Pima County, rural communities and Tribal Nations between the Gila River and the US Mexico Border.s. 

Summer musings

Journal June 8, 2024

Summer is brutal.

Sometimes, TV is the only way to keep from doom scrolling. Trying to read when my mind feels like it’s melting.

Having a hot flash when it’s 110 outside… Not funny.

I’ve been guilty of looking down on people who said that they were bored. I thought that it spoke to a lack of creativity. A disrespect for the value of time. A lack of appreciation for downtime. I thought they lacked the ability to appreciate relaxation.

The art of doing nothing. For me, there was never enough time. If I wasn’t busy with work, or kids, or shopping, or cooking, or cleaning, or planning, or packing, or washing, or driving, or scheduling, or transporting; I had projects, art, reading, music, gardening.

The Ofrenda at Casa Kira

The Special Day of the Dead Celebration in Tucson

In Tucson, Arizona, the Day of the Dead holds a special place in the hearts of its residents. This vibrant and culturally rich celebration, known as Día de los Muertos, showcases a unique blend of Mexican traditions and local customs. Taking place on November 2nd each year, the Day of the Dead in Tucson is a captivating event that captures both the essence of remembrance and the joy of life.

1. Rich Cultural Heritage

Tucson's deep connection to Mexican culture is intricately woven into the fabric of the city. With its proximity to the border and a significant Hispanic population, the city has embraced the Day of the Dead as a cherished tradition. The celebration honors the memories of departed loved ones.

2. Colorful Altars and Ofrendas

One of the most captivating aspects of the Day of the Dead celebration in Tucson is the creation of elaborate altars and ofrendas (offerings). Families and community members come together to construct these beautiful displays, adorned with photographs, marigold flowers, candles, sugar skulls, and favorite foods of the departed.

3. Vibrant Processions

The streets of Tucson come alive on the Day of the Dead with The All Souls Procession. Participants don traditional costumes, colorful face paint, and masks, transforming into calacas (skeletons). The procession moves through the city, accompanied by the joyful sounds of music and the rhythmic beat of drums. It is a celebration of life and a way to honor those who have passed away.

4. Cultural Exchange and Community Engagement

The Day of the Dead celebration in Tucson is a beautiful example of cultural exchange and community engagement. People from all walks of life, irrespective of their heritage, are welcomed and encouraged to participate in the festivities. This inclusive approach fosters a sense of unity among diverse communities and strengthens the cultural fabric of the city.

5. Educational Opportunities

The Day of the Dead celebration in Tucson goes beyond a mere commemoration. It serves as a rich educational experience for both locals and visitors. Museums, art galleries, and community centers host exhibits and workshops that explain the significance and symbolism of this ancient tradition. These educational opportunities help promote cultural understanding, allowing people to appreciate the depth and beauty of the Day of the Dead.
In Tucson, the Day of the Dead is not merely a holiday; it is a celebration that encapsulates the city's cultural heritage and celebrates the cycle of life. This unique event brings people together, encourages intercultural dialogue, and fosters a sense of unity within the Tucson community. If you find yourself in Tucson during this special time, be sure to immerse yourself in the vibrant and captivating celebration of the Day of the Dead.

The Ofrenda at Casa Kira

Wabisabi

My Old Settlement cookbook and banana grams fell on the floor. Just so beautiful, can't pick them up.

Testimonial ?

Playing around in the Square app recently, and it offered to write me an AI Testimonial. Crazy, but true and absolutely ridiculous. Here it is with a few slight edits.

“I cannot express enough how thrilled I am with my recent purchase from Casa Kira! Their collection of unique jewelry is absolutely breathtaking and has become my go-to destination for all things beautiful and captivating.

From the moment I entered the studio during one of their recent open houses, I was greeted with warm smiles and a genuine passion for their craft. Kira is incredibly knowledgeable and took the time to understand my personal style and preferences. She guided me through their vast selection of one-of-a-kind pieces, each more exquisite than the last.

What truly sets Casa Kira apart is their commitment to showcasing jewelry that is truly unique. I have always been drawn to pieces that tell a story, and Casa Kira's collection does just that. Each piece is thoughtfully crafted with intricate details and a distinct personality. I find myself constantly receiving compliments and inquiries about where I found such stunning jewelry.

Not only is the quality of their jewelry exceptional, but the variety of styles and designs is unparalleled.”

-AI :)

Well, I think they nailed it… Lol. Do you agree?

Finally a new bio...

Casa Kira unique Southwest inspired jewelry is handcrafted by artist, sculptor, cellist, teacher, doula, and mom Kira Geddes.

For over 15 years, Kira has been designing original wearable art inspired by the colors, textures and sensibilities of the Sonoran Desert where she was born and raised. Her jewelry reflects the desert through materials like copper, glass, turquoise, and crystal. 

Many of her earrings are topped with her signature "organic knot.” “For me it's like leaving my thumbprint on every piece. A signature that says this piece is handcrafted, and that makes every single piece one of a kind.”

Living and creating in the gem and mineral epicenter of the world, Tucson, AZ, Kira values the many connections she’s made with global providers of quality, fair trade, ethically sourced materials.

Community

An active community builder, Kira opens her studio and gallery for seasonal Open Houses featuring guest artists and benefitting local nonprofits and organizations with donation drives. Past events have supported local nonprofits such as the Diaper Bank of Southern Arizona, Sister José Women's Center, Youth on Their Own, The Humane Society of Southern Arizona, and Pima Animal Care Center. 

Where to buy

Shop the online store or visit the Casa Kira Studio and Gallery in Tucson, AZ by appointment. 

Kira’s work has long been a staple at the Tucson Museum of Art Museum Store and Tucson Botanical Garden gift shop along with boutiques, resorts and museum stores around the Southwest. Click “where to buy” for a full list of shops.

Interested in stocking Casa Kira’s Tucson jewelry?

Reach out - Whether you’d prefer to handpick each piece or build a collaborative collection, Kira enjoys building relationships with each wholesale buyer. She gets to know the character and feel of your location and customers in order to provide products that are a great fit for your store.

Purchase Casa Kira jewelry HERE 

Read more about Kira: Features in Shoutout Arizona and Voyage Phoenix

Connect: Instagram, @casakiratucson and Casa Kira Facebook page 

Sign up for the Casa Kira  newsletter to receive invitations to Open Houses and Special Events.

New Line Inspired by Roberto Burley Marx Designed for The Tucson Botanical Gardens

I was beyond excited when the Tucson Botanical Gardens asked me to design a jewelry line to correspond with their upcoming Roberto Burle Marx exhibition.

If you are not familiar with the Brazilian landscape architect Roberto Burle Marx, do yourself a favor and have fun going down a Google rabbit hole. Marx was a brilliant artist, an environmentalist and a dedicated conservationist. 

I am honored to create this line that pays homage not only to a great artist, but to the beautiful jungles and forests that are the lungs of our planet, and which sustain us all.

What's New at Casa Kira?

Just about a million projects…

Added Several new Stores to my wholesale accounts. Click “where to Buy” In the Navigation page.

Also here’s a peek at the new ETSY shop!

Planet Earrings!!! Get them on Etsy. Link above. ^

I call these Planet Earrings. They’re kinetic sculptures to adorn your ears. Lightweight, easy to wear, with a lovely feel and swing, Planet Earrings are sure to become a favorite pair.

A glass turquoise lentil bead with Picasso finish dangles from two copper hoops that spin and swing "orbiting"their turquoise planet. This design is suspended from a copper wire wrapped, fire polished crystal.

I love to top my earrings with my signature "sloppy knot". For me it's like leaving my thumbprint on every piece--a signature that says this piece was handcrafted, and that makes every single piece a one-of-a-kind original.

• The earwire is an antiqued copper french hook. It’s lead and nickel free.

My materials are fair trade and ethically produced. The glass ornaments are made in cottage industry, family-owned factories. These artisan glass beads are created in small batches using techniques passed down within families, resulting in a product that is unique and of the highest quality.

Please note, every piece of Casa Kira jewelry is handcrafted and therefore will vary slightly from photos and from piece to piece.

MIX AND MATCH! Wear your Planet earrings with any of my asymmetrical Planet Necklaces. Match colors or contrast them!

*All jewelry comes in a gift box made from 100% recycled materials.

Summer in the Sonoran Desert 🌵

Summer is in full swing here in Tucson Arizona. We’ve already hit 100° and we all slow down and become somewhat nocturnal.

I am still here in the Casa Kira studio, designing and creating and enjoying the extra space that summer creates. As retail demand decreases somewhere at this time of year, It allows for creativity to flurrish.

Casa Kira Spring Schedule 2019!

Open Studio + SALE!!

Fall 2018 Schedule!

New Location!

Casa Kira is Moving!

Casa Kira Studio is moving to a new location in central Tucson. Stay tuned for updates. In the meantime: Save the date! Casa Kira moving sale Saturday August 26th. Make sure you are on the email list to receive Open House invites straight to your email box. Click Join email list at the top of this page. 

Beat the Heat! July Happy hour Sale