Art, Western Style: Artists Reception Kicks Off Stagecoach Days

Maricopa's Stagecoach Days opened on Thursday, October 15, with a celebration of the city's own artists. The Cultural Affairs and Arts Advisory Committee (CAAAC) hosted its Artists Reception, "Art Western Fiesta," at the Maricopa Library & Cultural Center. Guests signed in beneath papel picado banners and cactus illustrations. The tables were dressed in serape runners and horseshoes, and a sombrero-wearing cactus completed the scene.

The evening honored the artists of the city's rotating Theme Galleries, which feature new work from local artists every four months. This year's galleries have included Pets, An Extension of Family (January–April), Elements of Nature: Wonders of Mother Nature (May–August) and the current Faces of Maricopa (September–December). The program recognized artists from all three, among them Amy Hagedorn, Lori Beetler, Paulette Burton, Pamela Thielen, Crystal Dennis and Deb (Djay) Jay.

The City of Maricopa may purchase selected pieces for display in city buildings. The program also reminded guests that every art purchase supports local artists and helps the arts grow in Maricopa.

About the CAAAC

The CAAAC is a seven-member advisory group to the City Council, chaired by Laura Olivieri. Its mission includes continuing the public art displays at the library and cultural center, inviting arts groups to present at its meetings, and finding ways to use cuisine to promote cultural awareness. The committee meets the third Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at City Hall, and the public is encouraged to attend.

Upcoming Calls to Artists

Artists who missed this round have more chances ahead:

• Student Art: A Day in the Life of Kids – Call to artists 11/2/26; on display January–April 2027
• Arizona Wild – Call to artists 3/4/27; on display May–August 2027
• Wishes, Wants and Wonders – Call to artists 7/1/27; on display September 2027–January 2028
• Expressions of Color – Call to artists 11/4/27; on display February–April 2028

More Stagecoach Days Ahead

The reception was just the beginning of Stagecoach Days, which runs October 15–28. Upcoming highlights include the Family Fishing Derby and Movies on the Lawn on October 17, the Neon Cowboy Color Run on October 23, Salsa Fest on October 24 and the Pacana Pumpkin Walk on October 28, with Parties at Pacana October 23–25. Find the full schedule at MaricopaStagecoachDays.com.

Maricopa Lifestyle Magazine is proud to have been among the supporting arts organizations thanked in the evening's program.

References

• "Art Western Fiesta" Artists Reception program, Cultural Affairs and Arts Advisory Committee, October 15, 2026
• Maricopa Stagecoach Days: https://www.maricopastagecoachdays.com
• City of Maricopa: https://www.maricopa-az.gov