Scott Baxter shared the stories of people, place, struggle, and success behind the images of his 100 Years 100 Ranchers project at June’s A Taste for Art supper club. Baxter, a celebrated fine art photographer, adorned the walls of famed Cattle Track Arts Compound with large format landscapes and portraits of iconic places and perhaps, less well-known faces.
Ted G. Decker, John Campbell – Northern Trust
In this intimate setting that maintains the natural flora and fauna of the Sonoran Desert, Baxter and Burns, Director of Western Spirit, offered guests nearly an hour of insight and insider knowledge about their decade’s-long professional relationship, the complexity of the artform, and grandeur of Baxter’s now-iconic images, memorialized on the cover and illustrating the pages of Arizona Highways magazine. Showcased in museums, Baxter’s award-winning work was front and center as guests lived and dined among these powerful works. This special evening was concluded by a surprise, behind-the-scenes tour of the working artists’ studios.
W. James Burns, Scott Baxter
Ilene Snoddy, W. James Burns
A Taste for Art is a new, ongoing series in partnership with Scottsdale Artists’ School, formed because Western Spirit believes in the power of collaboration as a catalyst for more significant community impact. This effort is made possible with patron support and the generosity of our Presenting Sponsor, Northern Trust.
Trustee Phil Hagenah and his spouse, Susan, whose keen vision for Arizona’s future, supported the attendance of four students at the inaugural two-part summer series through their Future Arizona Arts & Culture Leaders gift. As a result, the undergraduate and graduate students were given access to celebrated artists, community influencers, and policymakers in attendance—broadening their networks while shaping their ideas and vision for Arizona’s future. A Taste for Art is pushing the boundaries of potential in how museums activate and integrate within the community.
Ted G. Decker, Bob Rink, Scott Baxter
Hugh Ruddock
All A Taste for Art photos: Bob Rink