Scottsdale Art Week, presented by Scottsdale Ferrari, returns for its second year from March 19–22, 2026 at WestWorld. The four-day celebration will feature world-class galleries, cultural programming, and immersive experiences. This year, organizers will introduce the Indigenous Artist of the Year award, spotlighting Native voices in the art world.
The first honoree will be Cara Romero, an acclaimed artist and photographer from the Chemehuevi Indian Tribe. Her work blends fine art and editorial photography to challenge outdated stereotypes and celebrate Native identity. She will be recognized at the Opening Night Vernissage on Thursday, March 19, from 6–9 p.m. The evening, presented by Gila River Resorts & Casinos and benefiting the Phoenix Art Museum, will include entertainment, dining, and a lively art-loving crowd.
Honoring a Visionary Storyteller
Romero has become one of the most respected Indigenous artists of her generation. Over the past year, she has appeared in more than ten museum group exhibitions. She also presented her first solo museum show at Dartmouth College’s Hood Museum.
That exhibition, Panupunuwugai, takes its name from a Chemehuevi word meaning “light emerging” and “infusing the inanimate with spirit.” It will open at the Phoenix Art Museum on Feb. 28, 2026, just weeks before Scottsdale Art Week begins.
Romero’s portraits often highlight Native people as modern, dynamic, and celebratory. In contrast, older depictions tended to portray Native Americans in sepia tones, stoic and frozen in the past. Her imagery asks viewers to rethink those narratives.
“This award celebrates more than my work,” Romero said. “It’s also an acknowledgement of my community, our stories and our culture, and it’s a tremendous honor to be a part of Scottsdale Art Week alongside so many talented Indigenous artists.”
Scottsdale Art Week co-owner Trey Brennen shared: “Being in the Southwest, we feel it’s increasingly important to honor the wonderful work being done by members of the Indigenous communities around us. We look forward to honoring Cara with our first-ever Indigenous Artist of the Year Award.”
A Four-Day Celebration of Art and Culture
Building on the success of 2025, which welcomed more than 14,000 attendees, this year’s edition will be even bigger. More than 120 galleries from 10 countries will showcase thousands of works. Arizona institutions such as the Phoenix Art Museum, Heard Museum, Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art, and ASU Art Museum will also take part.
Visitors can choose from a variety of ticketed experiences, with early bird pricing available now:
- First Look (VIP Preview) – Thursday, March 19, 1–6 p.m.
$100 early bird / $120 standard
Exclusive early access for collectors, plus admission to cultural programming through Sunday. - Opening Night Vernissage – Thursday, March 19, 6–9 p.m.
$150 early bird / $200 standard
Elegant evening with entertainment, awards, dining and first chance to explore the fair. Ticket includes weekend admission. - Public Days – Friday–Sunday, March 20–22
$40 early bird / $50 standard, single-day
$80 early bird / $100 standard, weekend pass
General admission includes access to the fair and cultural programming. - Student General Admission – Friday–Sunday
$20 early bird / $25 standard
Discounted admission with valid student ID.
Looking Ahead
Scottsdale Art Week 2026 is poised to deepen its reputation as a premier cultural event in the Southwest. Organizers have already announced future dates through 2029, ensuring the city remains a hub for art and connection for years to come.
Visit the official website today to get tickets: https://scottsdaleartweek.com/.
