Did you know Artopia features nationally and locally renowned artists?
The unexpected experience bridges the national and the local with the old and the new for an eclectic burst of art in downtown Phoenix. Large scale light installations, interactive projection mapping, sound-reactive LEDs and colorful murals… Here’s what you should know about Artopia before you pay the exhibit a visit.
Don’t miss out: get your tickets here!
1. There’s a Cahokia-inspired room that pays homage to the Indigenous community
Curated by the Cahokia Gallery from downtown Phoenix, the special room “sits like a crown on the exhibit.” Cahokia was a real place in Illinois, where Indigenous people from across the world could come together to find solace in each other’s embrace. The creators of Artopia took Cahokia as inspiration to craft the kaleidoscopic world of the exhibition, and one of Artopia’s displays is fully curated by Indigenous women.
2. The location of the exhibit is a testament to Artopia’s commitment to the city
The creators of Artopia chose to meticulously craft their own world, based on the canvas of an old warehouse. Michael Levine, the venue owner, has been repurposing run down buildings in the warehouse district to restore them for various uses. He became one of the first to acquire old buildings in Phoenix to preserve them, returning a number of warehouses to commerce for the past 20 years.
Neighbors were curious as the exhibit slowly unraveled, excited for their home to be getting the attention it deserved. Artopia creators and producers went door to door, inviting families across the neighborhood to a free entry at the exhibit, and they made a promise to the district to plant a tree every time Artopia sold 1,000 tickets. 10 trees will be planted so far!
3. Kids-focused activities are sprinkled throughout the experience
There are plenty of kid-friendly activities at Artopia, including a large art park and interactive art installations. Families can bond together as they participate in all of the fun displays of the experience!
4. Seductive after-hours performances take place on Fridays & Saturdays
Fridays and Saturdays, from 9pm – 11pm, Artopia transforms into a cabaret-style soirée where Phoenix’s best burlesque, drag, street dance, and circus performers take over the stage to leave you in awe. Not only will you get access to Artopia’s art exhibit, you’ll also encounter a variety of multifaceted artists — all while enjoying cocktails at the Artopia Art Park. You can get your tickets to Artopia After Dark here.
5. VIP tickets are available for a hassle-free experience
VIP admission to Artopia includes skip-the-line access to the experience and a self-guided tour, as well as a complimentary cocktail at the Artopia Art Park. Artopia After Dark also offers a VIP option, with reserved seating (and signage!), access to the Artopia Art Park and Artopia’s indoor exhibit, access to After Dark performances starting at 10pm and a complimentary cocktail provided at check in.
6. And if you were wondering about parking…
There is plenty of parking space available on the property! The location is 5 minutes away from downtown and Roosevelt Row Artwalk.