The Tucson Museum of Art

the Tucson Museum of Art
Kasser Family Wing of Latin American Art exterior

The Tucson Museum of Art has been a leader in the fine arts and education in Southern Arizona for nearly a century. It was established in 1924 and is in Tucson’s historic downtown and moved to its current location in 1975. TMA features permanent and traveling exhibitions of Modern and Contemporary, Indigen

Patrick Martinez work at the Tucson Museum of Art
Patrick Martinez’ neon signs on view in the Kasser Family Wing of Latin American Art

ous, American West, Latin American, European, and Asian art. The museum resides on a four-acre campus, and its exhibits and arts education programs are central to its mission. In addition, the museum hosts events serves as a steward of five historic properties and has a 6,800-square-foot art education center and research library. It has a permanent collection of over 12,000 works spanning continents, centuries, and media.

TMA
View of the gallery for Latin American Folk Art

The museum will take you on a journey through art, history, and culture and with artwork ranging from ancient to contemporary, there is something for everyone! Thousands of lives have been enriched by the museum’s programs and exhibitions including: an award-winning outreach program serving Tucson’s refugee community, robust k-12 programs, one of the state’s longest-running biennial exhibitions, public programs, and lifelong learning programs like TMALearn! Docents. The museum provides numerous opportunities to connect and engage with the arts and local community, such as free First Thursday and Second SundAZe, lecture series, annual spring and fall artisans market, youth studio programs, K-12 field trips, and more!

The Tucson Museum of Art Summer Camp Class
Teacher leading a group of students during summer camp

Reviews 

“This place is a quiet gem. It was so much more than what we expected. Masterful artworks on careful display. I’m no art expert but I found this museum to be an excellent way to spend a relaxing few hours. Although as an introvert I found myself exhausted after exploring the many displays. Go if you haven’t been!  We also enjoyed salad for lunch at the attached café.”

Paul H on Yelp 9/27/2021

“The Tucson Museum of Art was a great stop. We took three generations of our family to visit it. The layout of the museum is expansive. We covered a lot of ground (not all of the buildings were open, so we didn’t get to see everything) over a two-hour period.

The exhibits on display were definitely thought-provoking and got us talking about topics that may not have come up otherwise. I’m glad we made the trip there for the discussions it invoked.

Wear comfortable shoes and plan enough time to really soak everything in!”

Karl A on Yelp—1/11/2019

Tucson Museum of Art
North Entrance to TMA

Tucson Museum of Art and Historic Block

Office Address: 140 North Main Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85701

Contact Name (s): Marianna Pegno

Phone (s): 520-624-2333

As of July 1, 2023 the following will go into effect for hours and pricing related to admissions:

HOURS
Wednesday – Sunday 10 am – 5 pm
First Thursday of every month 10 am – 8 pm

ADMISSION
General $15
Senior/ Educator $12
College Students $10
17 and under/ Veterans and Military/ Members – Free

TOURS
PreK – 12 Student $7
Art-making $5 ($12 total)

NOTE: Discounts for College and Senior tours will no longer be offered.

Creatively Queer Press

creatively queer press logoHave you ever felt seen, valued, or important? Here at Creatively Queer Press, we want everyone to experience that feeling through the media they consume. We’ve seen in popular media that many people in the LGBTQ+ or BIPOC communities lack representation with accuracy or empathy if represented at all.

Our mission as a publishing company is to change that. We look to media for versions of ourselves and for visions of who we could be. If we don’t see ourselves represented then our dreams can feel limited, or at worst, discouraged. Diversity is something we believe should be visible and celebrated.

The Media

Cuentos CoverOne of our first publications does that for the queer Latinx community: Cuentos. This bilingual Latinx mythology art anthology came to fruition by our Creatively Queer Press team. With the help of two dozen queer Latinx artists and writers. Every entry is a painting or illustration about a myth, legend, or creature from folklore. The artworks are accompanied by either fiction or non-fiction writing about the subject in both Spanish and English.

Through Cuentos our founder Luis Silva discovered our first editor for the CQP team: A. Dante Bravo. Originally a contributing artist and writer, Dante took on the task of editing the book layout and running the Kickstarter campaign to raise funds for the print books of Cuentos. To help finish Cuentos, our second editor Joelle Blot was also invited to join us on the book’s publishing journey. Together our team of three queer creators works to share our books all across the town of Tucson, AZ, and far beyond. By collaborating with queer and POC creatives from all over the world, Creatively Queer Press strives to create and publish accessible entertainment for fans of all genres of comic books, art anthologies, gaming books, and so much more.

We are also working towards building an animation team to help us create groundbreaking animated films that serve our mission of inclusive representation. We invite everyone who values diversity to discover a new favorite on our website at www.creativelyqueerpress.com

Mobility Plus

Mobility Plus

Mobility Plus Tucson Showroom

Mobility Plus

(520) 225-0415

Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00-5:00, Saturday 9:00-3:00

Locations:

Mobility Plus
245 S Tucson Blvd Ste 2
Tucson AZ 85719

Mobility Plus
10861 N Mavinee Dr Ste 155
Oro Valley AZ 85737

Mobility Plus
9140 N Silverbell Rd Ste 120
Marana AZ 84743

Mobility Plus is a locally owned small business and it is operated by Gary & Dan Ross. They are proud to be part of Tucson’s LGBTQ community and Gary is a veteran with over 25 years of service. Mobility Plus is a franchise that offers sales, repairs, installations, and rentals of scooters, ramps, lifts, and more. Gary & Dan opened their first location in Central Tucson, and they plan to open a location in Oro Valley and in East Tucson.

Gary was a Midshipman at the United States Naval Academy and Dan was a Flight Attendant at US Airways when they met in 2000. They were living in Tucson when they made headlines in 2011 by becoming the first same-sex military couple to legally marry following the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.” Gary & Dan also successfully challenged the constitutionality of the so-called “Defense of Marriage Act” when it comes to military spousal benefits.

Gary received new military orders, so they moved away from Tucson. However, Gary and Dan left their hearts in Tucson, and they dreamed about returning. Their dream became a reality when they purchased a Tucson home in 2019 and moved permanently in 2020. They have enjoyed reuniting with old friends and making new friends. Gary and Dan adore the Old Pueblo because of the sunshine, warmth, history, and culture—not to mention Tucson is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy!

Gary and Dan researched several business opportunities before they decided to open Mobility Plus. “We improve people’s lives by consulting with them to find the right solutions for their mobility needs,” says Gary Ross. “We help people maintain their independence and age in place in the homes they love,” says Dan Ross. Mobility Plus is committed to exceeding its client’s expectations by offering internet pricing along with personalized service, delivery, and installation.

Mobility Plus Storefront
Mobility Plus Storefront

Desert Rat Art Collective

MoreGraphic image of the sonoran desert with the desert rat art collective statement
Image of desert rat art collective founder Tierney
DRAC founder Tierney
Desert Rat Art Collective is a local Tucson community of artists that specialize in the strange and beautiful, inspired by our lives in the desert. They see the charm of the dirt and mountains and know that no matter where life takes them, they’ll basically always be desert rats at heart. DRAC is queer-owned and operated, and was founded by artist Tierney after their group of friends got together every Friday for about 2 years to make art together. Those little gatherings still go on, and now they have a website to support art sales now that they’ve run out of wall space to show everything off.

Desert Rat Art Collective

Image from desert rat art collective of sushi in acrylic paintDRAC specializes in selling original canvas art pieces online, but also offers prints, merchandise, and also accepts mural requests around town! Their art is usually cheeky, with wildly different styles between the current members. E/ze, the anonymous artist featured exclusively on their website, creates heavily textured pieces inspired by street art. You can feel the deep emotion in every piece. Ry Arvin is an expert in all things text and font. They’re wildly creative with mandalas, text, and also reimagines the margin-doodles of our teenage years. Tierney, the founder, and manager of Desert Rat Art Collective creates a wide variety of prints and patterns. Using the same techniques in their digital art as their physical canvas work, creating strong lines and measured shading. A collections of desert rat art collective workTucson and the Sonoran Desert will always hold a special place in Desert Rat’s little heart. Moreover, they want to honor and give back to the community. They’ve got big dreams of being able to provide free art supplies to underfunded schools throughout Tucson. Sharing the love of art to everyone they can. The website itself takes only 3% commission which is far less than physical gallery spaces. Any DRAC money leftover after the minimal website maintenance costs goes right back to supporting local Tucson small businesses and art ventures. Company Name: Desert Rat Art Collective Office Address: Online Contact Name (s): Tierney Website: Desertratac.com Socials: @DesertRatArtC

Client Review

“The original piece by JackofAllArt is the highlight of our kitchen. The meticulous care given to every detail and the bold use of color make this an outstanding creation. We love it!” – Windy Lynn, owner of Sushi Flood by JackofAllArt

LGBT Adoption Attorney – Heather M. Strickland

0
MyersStrickland PLLC
MyersStrickland PLLC

MyersStrickland, PLLC

3180 E. Grant Road Tucson, AZ Phone: (520) 327-6041 ArizonaAdoptionLaw.com
Heather M Strickland with MyersStrickland PLLC
Heather M Strickland with MyersStrickland PLLC
Every day, Tucson families trust their most important decisions with Heather M. Strickland, an LGBT adoption attorney. They trust her not only because of her sterling track-record and relentless work-ethic but also because she takes the time to listen and understand EVERY situation.  They also trust her because she has experience with the system from both sides… While young, Heather had a friend who desperately needed to live with a new family.  She bravely convinced her parents to take up this challenge, only to watch the effort and desire required to follow-through.  Heather was deeply touched not only by her families courage but also by how supportive her community became to lift and protect her young friend. Flash forward to adulthood and motherhood.  Heather has devoted herself to providing the precious gift of family to all of Tucson’s youth.  It is important to her that every child has the support and love of a caring, nurturing family.  Trust Heather Strickland as you work to build your family through adoption.

Why Heather Strickland Should Be Your LGBT Adoption Attorney

Adopting a child can be a gauntlet for any parenting couple.  This is only exacerbated when you are an LGBT couple trying to build your family through adoption.  Heather Strickland can help you navigate the turbulent waters and keep you moving towards your family goals!

Why MyersStrickland, PLLC?

MyersStrickland is a boutique law firm focusing its practice on family building through adoption and assisted reproduction.   They have the privilege of working on more than three hundred adoptions a year – more than any other law firm in the state.  Their expertise allows us to provide exceptional representation in all types of adoptions – whether you are pursuing an independent adoption, working with an adoption agency, are a stepparent or relative, or adopting a child from foster care. They are committed to the ethical and compassionate representation of expectant parents or prospective adoptive parents.

When it takes more than just two to make a baby, MyersStrickland is there to assist with the legal aspects of your donated sperm, eggs or embryos, and your relationship with a gestational carrier.  They guide you through the legal landscape in Arizona and help you develop the best journey to parenthood for you and your family.

At MyersStrickland, they value and welcome ALL families.

Attorney Heather M. Strickland is a native Tucsonan and has been practicing adoption, assisted reproductive technology and family law in Arizona since 2005.  She is a proud Fellow of the Academy of Adoption & Assisted Reproduction Attorneys and a recipient of a 2017 Angels in Adoption award from the Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute (CCAI) for her dedication to positive child welfare practices.

Contact MyersStrickland at 3180 E. Grant Road, Tucson, AZ 85716 or call (520) 327-6041.

Have a great day! Tony Ray 🙂

Barrio Books

Barrio BooksAn abundance of booksBarrio Books is the only bilingual woman-owned bookstore in Tucson, AZ. We specialize in carrying literature from Latinx authors as well as other BIPOC authors. We dedicate ourselves to serving the Tucson community by providing a space where our customers can find representation in the books they read. Barrio Books began as a pop-up vendor, going to different events throughout Tucson and the surrounding areas. In January, we were fortunate to have a partnership with Hotel McCoy who provided our first Brick and Mortar location rent-free. We are currently working on our bookmobile in order to have an easier and more efficient way of getting more literature into our neighborhoods.

Representation Matters

SYRENA AREVALO-TRUJILLO
Selfie of Syrena at Barrio Books
I am a native Tucsonan and a graduate of the University of Arizona. Throughout the years, I have been involved in organizations throughout the community that focuses on Social Justice and Cultural enrichment. Tucson is such a diverse city and so incredibly supportive. We saw that first opening at our Brick and Mortar location! There were so many people that came in rooting for Barrio Books to succeed. And so many others that were eager to learn and devour the literature that we sell. Even today, there are still so many people so excited to come in and take in the unique vibes of Barrio Books. Barrio Books MerchRepresentation for Latinx peoples is incredibly important in all mediums, especially literature.  Barrio Books is a way to get books out to people in the community who have no idea where they can find books that reflect them and their unique journey through life. This is especially important for young readers. Books that have characters who look like them, eat the same foods, or go through the same obstacles can really lure them into wanting more books and in turn, create lifelong readers!   “Quickly has become one of my favorite bookstores in town. Syrena has been extremely kind and helpful when it comes to helping me find rare Latinx-focused books, and I am very grateful for all the wonderful finds!” -Luis Silva COMPANY NAME: BARRIO BOOKS OFFICE ADDRESS: HOTEL MCCOY 720 W SILVERLAKE #302 TUCSON AZ, 85713
WEBSITE: BARRIOBOOKS520.COM
CONTACT NAME: SYRENA AREVALO-TRUJILLO

El Rio Community Health Center

Multiple Locations
(520) 670-3909

El Rio Community Health Centers are located throughout Tucson and serve as the primary medical and dental care facilities for over 10% of our population. With such an expansive footprint, they have become known for their easy access and affordable, quality care.

What Does El Rio Community Health Center Provide?

Thanks to it’s all-encompassing mission of providing integrated, comprehensive health care options, El Rio offers a full suite of medical and dental care services. Additionally, they are a large employer in the area and offer great benefits for working there. El Rio Health is a valuable part of Tucson’s social fabric and we thank them for their contributions.

Velvet & Shadow Photography

Velvet & Shadow Photography in rainbow colors
Velvet & Shadow Photography in color
Welcome to Velvet & Shadow Photography, a rainbow color explosion for the eyes. But, not in an ‘it hurts my head to look at’ kind of way. The lighting is dreamy and the sets are custom to elicit ethereal emotions, perhaps a dream half-forgot…
Velvet & Shadow photography
Look like a dream with Velvet & Shadow Photography
If you’re a regular to 4th Avenue you may have wandered into &Gallery or deliberately gone to their art openings. And if that’s the case there’s a good chance you’ve glimpsed the work of this incredible photographer who makes every shoot memorable. Velvet & Shadow Photography is a Tucson, AZ-based experimental boudoir photography business founded by Isabella Laos that offers personalized photoshoot sessions inside visually stunning hand-crafted sets with rainbow explosions of colorful lights. You can take part in a staging shoot where different models get to use the same set or a completely custom set you and Isabella decide on. For instance, if you want to be a fairy princess she creates the illusions to make it so.

Background

Model Bri posing for Velvet & Shadow Photography
Model Bri poses for Velvet & Shadow Photography
Having worked as a venue and event photographer for many years, Isabella is deeply inspired by the theatrical lights and special effects of the dimly lit stage. Isabella provides positive affirming direction and encouragement throughout each session which cultivates a truly therapeutic journey of self-discovery & empowerment. Boudoir photography makes a lot of people nervous but you don’t have to worry about that with Isabella. She makes every subject feel like the only person in the world. As a result, she guarantees genuine and touching photographs.
We like Velvet & Shadow Photography because she actually listens. Whether you’re having a conversation about your favorite restaurant or coming up with the perfect pirate shoot she’s paying attention and making sure that you feel heard. But don’t take our word for it. Here’s a review from local artist Sophie McTear.
Sophie poses for Velvet & Shadow Photography
Sophie posing for Velvet & Shadow Photography

Client Review: Google Sophie McTear

 “I love working with Bella. I feel comfortable and at ease when I’m in front of the camera with her, even when I’m in lingerie! She makes me feel confident, and her photos have such a gorgeous, dreamy quality that she’s honed in on and made completely her own. I love her work and encourage anyone in Tucson to book a shoot with Velvet & Shadow!”

The Details

Company name: Velvet & Shadow
(velvet.and.shadow – Insta)
Contact Name: Isabella
Phone: 5203073775
Pricing: $150+
Website: Velvetandshadow.com

Southern Arizona Psychology

Southern Arizona Psychology
Southern Arizona Psychology
Bryce Paradis, MA, started Southern Arizona Psychology after years of professional experience working with children, young adults, and adults in diverse settings. Ranging from private practice consultations to community mental health and professional athletics. Bryce, a South Dakota native, has resided in Southern Arizona since 2015. Bryce’s background in Freudian psychotherapy has been integrated into the treatment of protocols in private practice, community mental health, professional athletic organizations, and family medical practices and training programs.
Southern AZ Psych
Bryce Paradis, MA
Bryce has received extensive training in improving the lives of individuals experiencing various areas of mental and emotional discomfort or distress. As a master’s level professional Bryce has years of professional experience working with individuals who experience moderate to severe mental health issues struggle with addiction and life/functional difficulties in response to personal trauma. As a member of the LGBTQ community, Bryce provides first-hand knowledge and understanding of the struggles that the community faces in his clinical practice and interventions.

The Mission

Southern Arizona Psychology operates with the mission and goal of providing patients with top-of-the-line mental health services. Your well-being is the number one priority. Southern Arizona Psychology goes above and beyond to cater to the needs of every client with gold standard personalized services. Services provided by Southern Arizona Psychology include couples coaching, individual coaching, family coaching, and athletic performance/mental health coaching. Emotional and behavioral issues are addressed by guiding patients every step of the way and implementing various methods to help individuals develop new attitudes towards all of life’s most complex matters. The goal of the process is to solve current problems and improve positive thinking and behavior. I will help you “re-frame” your reactions and provide you with valuable tools to cope with life’s obstacles.
Southern AZ Psych exterior
Southern AZ Psych exterior
Personal growth and the cultivation of self (self-discovery, self-worth, and self-esteem) is paramount to Southern Arizona Psychology’s practice. It is our mission to provide our clients with tools, emotional regulation, and positive self-worth to lead healthy, productive, and fulfilling lives.

Contact

Southern AZ Psych Logo
Company Name: Southern Arizona Psychology, LLC Office Address: 183 W. Broadway, Tucson AZ 85701 (Downtown Tucson & Via Zoom) Contact Name (s): Bryce Paradis, MA Phone: (424) 234-9591 Pricing: $80 – $100 per session (sliding scale available based on income and/or economic hardship). Website: www.southernAZpsych.com Office hours: 7 Days a week based on appointment availability
Southern AZ Pych Services Graphic
Southern AZ Pychology Services