Experience the Art and Beauty of Southern Arizona at Tucson Botanical Gardens: “A Reverence for This Land” Exhibit
If you’re planning a visit to Tucson, Arizona, there’s an art exhibit you won’t want to miss. Tucson Botanical Gardens is currently hosting the exhibit A Reverence for This Land: Southern Arizona, featuring the stunning oil paintings of Tom Collazo. This exhibit runs from January 10 through April 20, 2025, and showcases Collazo’s deep connection to the land he loves—Southern Arizona. Located at 2150 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, this exhibit is a must-see for anyone interested in local art, nature conservation, or the diverse landscapes of the Southwestern United States.
About the Exhibit: A Reverence for This Land – Southern Arizona
Tom Collazo’s paintings are more than just landscapes; they are a powerful visual exploration of Southern Arizona’s fragile ecosystems, from its arid deserts to its lush riparian areas. Collazo, who previously worked for The Nature Conservancy, brings a unique perspective to his artwork, having spent his career preserving the very land he now depicts on canvas.
“I wanted to document this important time of transition,” Collazo says, referring to the rapid changes in the region due to drought, fire, climate change, and resource use. His paintings capture the natural beauty of the land, while also serving as a call to action to protect these precious environments. Whether you’re drawn to the vivid colors, textured brushstrokes, or the larger environmental themes, Collazo’s work is sure to leave a lasting impression.
His oils are full of color and texture, with each painting telling a story. For instance, Summer in the Grasslands evokes the warm, humid atmosphere of the Arizona landscape, allowing viewers to feel the heat and the lushness of the scene. Through his intricate layering of paint, Collazo captures the soul of Southern Arizona’s habitats—grasslands, deserts, forests, and riparian areas—in stunning detail.
Why You Should Visit
• Dates: The exhibit is open to the public from January 10 to April 20, 2025.
• Location: Tucson Botanical Gardens, 2150 N Alvernon Way, Tucson, AZ.
• Gallery Hours: The Friends House Gallery at Tucson Botanical Gardens is open daily from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM. It’s an intimate, welcoming space to enjoy the paintings and reflect on the landscape they represent.
• Admission: Tickets to the Tucson Botanical Gardens are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors (65+), and $8 for children (ages 4-17). Admission includes access to the exhibit as well as the gardens, making it a fantastic value for a full day of exploring nature and art.
• Cost of the Exhibit: The exhibit is included in the regular admission price, so visitors only need to pay for entry to the gardens.
Visiting the A Reverence for This Land exhibit is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of Tucson and its surrounding landscapes. As you walk through the exhibit, you’ll be transported to the diverse environments of Southern Arizona—places that are often unseen by the casual visitor but which hold great ecological and cultural significance.
In addition to the exhibit, the Tucson Botanical Gardens is a lovely place to spend an afternoon. The gardens feature a wide variety of plant collections, including a desert garden, butterfly garden, and herb garden, offering plenty of inspiration for nature lovers and photographers. Take a stroll through the gardens after viewing the exhibit and experience the beauty of Southern Arizona’s flora firsthand.
Additional Things to Do in Tucson
If you’re visiting Tucson for the A Reverence for This Land exhibit, be sure to check out some other top attractions in the area. Tucson is home to a vibrant arts scene, rich history, and plenty of outdoor adventures. Here are a few things you can explore during your visit:
• Saguaro National Park – A visit to Tucson wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the iconic saguaro cacti that dominate the region’s desert landscapes. The park offers hiking trails, scenic drives, and opportunities for wildlife watching.
• Pima Air & Space Museum – If you’re interested in history and aviation, the Pima Air & Space Museum offers an impressive collection of aircraft and exhibits on the history of flight.
• Mission San Xavier del Bac – This historic Spanish Catholic mission is a stunning example of 18th-century architecture, located just a short drive from downtown Tucson.
• Sabino Canyon – For nature lovers, Sabino Canyon offers beautiful hiking trails, picnic areas, and an opportunity to see some of Tucson’s striking desert landscape up close.
Where to Stay in Tucson: Find Your Ideal Vacation Rental
If you’re planning a visit to Tucson for the A Reverence for This Land exhibit, you’ll want a comfortable and convenient place to stay. At Vacaystay at the Lee’s, we offer a range of vacation rentals to suit your needs, whether you’re looking for a cozy cottage or a spacious family home. Our properties are all located near major attractions like the Tucson Botanical Gardens, so you’ll have easy access to the best that Tucson has to offer. Visit Vacaystay at the Lee’s to browse our listings and book your stay today!
Plan Your Visit Today!
The A Reverence for This Land: Southern Arizona exhibit at Tucson Botanical Gardens is an experience you won’t forget. Whether you’re an art lover, nature enthusiast, or simply looking for something new to explore in Tucson, this exhibit offers a unique and beautiful glimpse into the region’s landscapes. Be sure to mark your calendar and take the time to visit before the exhibit closes on April 20, 2025.
For more information about the exhibit and other things to do in Tucson, check out This is Tucson or visit Tucson Botanical Gardens. And don’t forget to book your stay with Vacaystay at the Lee’s to make your visit as comfortable and convenient as possible!