Many local Arizonans are not aware that we have one of the top fine art schools in the U.S.
in our own back yard. Even more may not know this amazing art school is a non-profit school in need of donations and grant funding to keep it operational. Therefore, Scottsdale Artists’ School (SAS) is thrilled to have received $600,000, one of the largest single gifts they have received to date, to help fund the school’s student scholarship program.
The Dorothy Sanborn and Augusta Ganoni Artist Fund has donated $600,000 to help provide scholarships and programming for U.S. art students who reside in Arizona and demonstrate financial need. A large format check was given to the school on February 26th. A small reception followed.
The funds came from Augusta “Gusty” Ganoni and her friends Frank and Dorothy Sanborn. All three moved from the Chicago area to Paradise Valley in the 1970’s. Gusty was the last to survive and neither she nor the Sanborn’s had any children. She asked her neighbor and friend, Joy Gaarde, to serve as her trustee. Joy suggested she consider a gift to SAS because Dorothy Sanborn was a painter and had taken classes at the school. Gusty immediately liked that idea, and decided to bequeath money to Scottsdale Artists’ School. Joy presented the check on Gusty’s behalf.
Founded in 1983, SAS was created to fill a void in the community. There was a lack of available education for artists looking to learn and hone their fundamental art skills. The artist community needed a place to gather, paint, discuss, and showcase local art talent. Through workshops, classes and demonstrations taught by working, professional artists, the School quickly emerged as one of the premier fine art schools in Arizona and in the U.S.
This year Scottsdale Artists’ School celebrates its 35th year anniversary and is now considered a leader in visual art training for all levels – from absolute beginner to professional artist. SAS features over 270 workshops and classes annually. SAS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization offering six fully equipped studios, an art book library, student lounge, bookstore and a rotating display of fine art. In addition, they offer a Youth and Teen Academy with year-round classes and workshops. SAS attracts more than 2,900 students and visitors annually from all 50 states and many foreign countries.
To learn more about Scottsdale Artists’ School and its many programs, visit www.scottsdaleartschool.org.
