DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun image

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun

Tourist attraction Museum Art gallery

One of the Best Places To Visits in Catalina Foothills


Address

6300 N Swan Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718, United States

Website

degrazia.org

Contact

+1 520-299-9191

Rating on Google Maps

4.80 (931 reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Monday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Tuesday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Wednesday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Thursday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 4 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: gallery (26) DeGrazia (22) artist (16) Tucson (14) visit (14) work (14) paintings (11) great (11) time (10) grounds (10)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 AJ L. 2 years ago on Google
    I have a feeling that many people have never heard of Ettore (Ted) DeGrazia. Our party of four had not. We googled things to do in Tucson and the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun populated. What an experience. The man, who passed in 1982, was wildly prolific, creating thousands of artworks. He must have worked constantly for decades. His style is simple yet deeply communicative and endearing. He painted what he experienced in life, especially social conditions & issues, strife, and other human conditions of his day. We thought we'd walk through in 15 minutes. No. Two hours. The surprisingly large sprawling adobe compound snakes from room to room to room, each dedicated to a period in DeGrazia's life, or a particular theme. The tour ends with a stroll through an enclosed outdoor paradise filled with mature cactus, trees and shrubs all adorned with somewhat hidden, unexpected sculptures and small pieces of metal art. On the property, adjacent to the gallery is the chapel, special unto itself. You'll enjoy your visit.
    8 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Garrett S. 2 years ago on Google • 559 reviews
    This place is a time capsule of pre 90s Tucson when it was weird and mystical. It took me a little over an hour to see everything. I was familiar with the artist, but I've never seen this much of his work in one place. Beyond his paintings, this museum is a celebration of his inspired and prolific career. They have original pieces and screen prints available for sale in the consignment gallery. The experience ends with a short walk through a lush cactus garden. I enjoyed sitting in the garden. and enjoying the quiet from within the adobe walls.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ethan O. 10 months ago on Google
    Southwestern art comes to life. It takes roughly 1-2 hours to walk through. $8 admission and military/veteran get in free. Each room has a different theme that DeGrazia was painting. Outside there is a desert garden and several guest homes that are available to walk through, including a church dedicated to the Lady of Guadalupe.
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Kimberly G. 6 months ago on Google • 20 reviews
    I loved this museum! My grandma introduced me to DeGrazia years ago and I’ve always loved his art. I highly recommend this tour.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Samuel L. 1 year ago on Google • 291 reviews
    Brilliant, brilliant experience. Expect to spend 1-2 hours here for a pleasant walkthrough. DeGrazia gallery in the sun is almost a walkthrough biography. In this galley you get a glimpse into the mind and marvel that was Ted DeGrazia. The building itself is a work of art, and the actual artwork just adds to that. Gallery is curated very well, with useful information points. The first three gallery rooms rotate regularly. Staff very friendly and very knowledgeable. The other buildings on site are well worth visiting too. Note that the smaller gallery for visiting artists is only open during the cooler months of the year. Garden is excellent too. This gallery is world class and is hidden away in the hills of Tucson. It is well worth visiting.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Phoenyx N. 2 years ago on Google
    My mother told me about this place. She used to come by the studio and watch DeGrazia paint. She had so many stories about him, and we always try to make this a stop when we roll into town. It’s so peaceful, and the art is beautiful!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 A D (. 2 years ago on Google
    Don't want to give away too many pictures. But I took a lot. As a tourist visiting Tucson I do recommend this place to my fellow travelers. Parking was free. Admission was $8.00. Gift shop wasn't terribly priced. The compound was clean and well kept. The art was stellar. Many places to explore and so much detail. You can do a quick walk though just to say you visited and that'd be fine. Or you can spend hours appreciating the many details of the environment.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anthony M. 2 years ago on Google
    If you set aside any preconceived notions about the man himself, you must admit that DeGrazia created a little oasis in the desert that everyone can appreciate. You may or may not like his works of art, and I admit some are highly confusing, but his gallery is simply amazing. The abundance of Flora on the grounds alone rivals dedicated botanical gardens, and the sculptures you'll find scattered throughout the old church and house are a joy to encounter. I especially enjoyed the old Saguaro. It's covered in moss! The statue of the man who looks like he got caught doing something naughty is pretty awesome, too.
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Nata 9 months ago on Google • 224 reviews
    Interesting wall art. Few masterpieces I really liked, the rest was kind of not up to my eye satisfaction. Anyway place us unique and if you adore art, come visit it. Adult ticket 8$, kids a bit cheaper, till 12 y.o. free.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Zig Z. 1 year ago on Google
    De Grazia was a wildly creative influence and a gift to us as much as any great artist his work needs to b preserved, appreciated in its story, form and spirit..
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Shelley J. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful art gallery! Highly recommend a visit. Would not bring very young children as the exhibits would most likely not be of interest. Cost is $8 per adult, active military and veterans get in free. We enjoyed the galleries and the outdoor gardens very much.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Aidea S. 1 year ago on Google
    One of our Best treasures! Spend a couple of hours here and learn about DeGrazia's astounding career! Don't miss sitting down and hearing him on film, from interviews in the past! Incredible artist! Often there are special artists on display in the Small Gallery! See his humble home from many years back!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 HERM P. 1 year ago on Google
    Absolutely remarkable indoor & outdoor spaces, a masterpiece in southwestern building techniques. Paradisiac desert garden with wide variety of cacti. Questionable art at its best.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Martha 1 year ago on Google
    This is a wonderful, out of the ordinary place to visit. Interesting story about the artist and his work is very eclectic. Lovely garden to walk around in too; loved the fountain. Thoroughly enjoyable.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 tonya n. 1 year ago on Google
    My favorite place in town! Be sure to bring your camera and explore the gardens during different seasons.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brooke H. 10 months ago on Google
    Wonderful exhibit to walk around! Shows a different perspective of Tucson, and AZ in general, due to DeGrazia’s background. The property itself is stunning & there is something that’ll catch your eye everywhere you look. My grandmother purchased several signed DeGrazia pendants and magnets a few decades ago. I recently found them when going through her things & figured it was time for me to go see the gallery in the sun for myself. Entry is $8 for adults & free for military/veterans.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Marisa E. 4 months ago on Google • 14 reviews
    What a great place to spend the afternoon. Quirky, beautiful, peaceful. Lots of excellent history and detail to help you see DeGrazia's evolution as an artist.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Cindy C. 4 months ago on Google • 77 reviews
    I can't believe in all my visits to Tucson I had never made it to the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun until just recently. This museum has a rich native Mexican-American cultural history depicted in bright colored art. The buildings where the art is displayed is the former home of Degrazia which was also a beauty of adobe architechture in the desert. Put on your must do list on your next visit to Tucson. It will not disappoint.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Helena H. 4 months ago on Google • 73 reviews
    Amazing place to visit with both indoor and outdoor art to view. Spent an extra 2 hours there just exploring & studying his paintings. We'll go again.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Deborah N. 2 months ago on Google • 32 reviews New
    So worth it!!! The entire place is a work of art: the gorgeous grounds, the architecture, and, of course, Degrazia’s artwork, which incorporates so many mediums (ie, mosaics, sketchs, paintings, pottery, etc). To boot, the backdrop is stunning mountain range. It is one of the best little art museums that I’ve ever encountered. Definitely, get here if you can while in Tucson.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Brent B. 2 years ago on Google
    This gallery, is much more that art. The life of this man, and his act of burning some of his artwork due to the taxmans assessment of value of the paintings. That got me interested, but the grounds of his gallery and home was what I just loved. A very good place to spend time while in Tuscon
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Claude W. 2 years ago on Google
    DeGrazia's approach to art is simplistic yet it is the theme he depicts that makes it have a deep meaning. The adobe buildings were also crafted by him. DeGrazia embraces his heritage and Arizona spirit.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Ed W. 1 year ago on Google
    First time here and will be back. It was like walking through the mind and soul of an artist’s evolution. Fascinating stuff.. There is a lot of information including a looping video of DeGrazia talking about himself to take in all at once. We came on a 105F day and inside was cool and calm. The outside area was interesting but it was a little too hot to explore fully. Gift shop had a few prints available to purchase.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Anna C. 1 year ago on Google
    This place is super cool. DeGrazia's art is amazing, he proclaims his art is finished but not complete. He is very spiritual and displays a profound love of the local culture and children. He also has work expressing the evils of the Conquistadors. There are many pieces on the rodeo and show his love of horses and southwestern native cultural spirit and traditions. He evokes strong feelings and emotions with seemingly simplistic flair. The museum is a gallery he designed and built, a gem in my humble opinion.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mildred C. 11 months ago on Google
    Customer service was excellent. Great artworks of a Tucson native. Loved his work and history. Very interesting and enjoyable.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jussane C. 1 year ago on Google
    His paintings are so beautiful. Like a dream the employees are so helpful and friendly. We purchased a print and a tile. Highly Recommend. I will go back again next time I'm in Tucson
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Rebecca B. 2 years ago on Google
    This is a total hidden gem in our state. Degrazia was evidently talented and it shows throughout this lovely museum. From the outdoors to the friendly staff, this is a place worth visiting if you are in the area and love art!

  • 5/5 Doc K. 2 years ago on Google
    Many small galleries/rooms. Be sure to see the documentary video in the most distance room. Many know DeGrasia's children paintings but he did much more.

  • 5/5 Connie M. 4 years ago on Google
    Very interesting gallery of DeGrazia's works. I learned a lot about him and his art.

  • 5/5 Sa-Tina E. 2 years ago on Google
    Such a treat. I learned things. Had no idea as I had been limited to his more commercial style, which I do love. I have a whole new appreciation of him. The grounds are great. Will be a frequent flyer.

  • 5/5 Donna A. 2 years ago on Google
    I am an artist and found great inspiration by visiting here. Came home with ideas and implemented them right away. The gallery is smazine as well as the gardens. Worth the tour! This will he something I take out of town guests to visit.

  • 5/5 Mark G. 9 months ago on Google
    Went for the mining paintings exhibit, but the whole museum was very interesting

  • 4/5 ZZHANGHH张小左一 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) A small gallery on the hill Was originally the artist's home Personally not attracted by his work But the small courtyard and house are cute (Original) 在山上的一个小画廊 原本是这个艺术家的家 个人没有被他的作品吸引 但是小庭院和房子还挺可爱的

  • 5/5 Jan Marie Taplin D. 4 years ago on Google
    The number of works of art were unbelievable. Be sure to allow enough time. You can look in some areas free of charge, and another areas, you pay. There is also an area where an artist has his or her work for sale. Great way to support artists.

  • 4/5 Mary S. 4 years ago on Google
    Very interesting

  • 5/5 Denise M. 4 years ago on Google
    My favorite artist

  • 5/5 Debra E. 4 years ago on Google
    Very relaxing place to unwind. Beautiful artwork and grounds!

  • 5/5 JUAN C. 4 years ago on Google
    It was a trip back in time and to learn and see the history. We loved it everything.

  • 3/5 VJ V. 4 years ago on Google
    Interesting place to visit. People from other places often are not aware of DeGrazia, but it is still good way to expose them to this amazing artist.

  • 5/5 Brittni W. 4 years ago on Google
    Interesting, beautiful, mid-century artwork and abstract art. The grounds are also amazing and beautiful. Very happy we went!

  • 5/5 Jeanette F. 4 years ago on Google
    My first time visiting this gallery. I was really impressed with it. I'd heard of the artist but wasn't familiar with his art. Art was so different from what I'm used to seeing. Yet it pulled you in, you could relate to what he was thinking. After we watched the movie and saw how he painted, it made you really appreciate his work. It's a must see when you visit Tuscon, Az.

  • 5/5 Maria S. 4 years ago on Google
    This is such a beautiful place to visit

  • 5/5 David Y. 4 years ago on Google
    Ted DeGrazia was an amazing artist and man of the people of Az. This museum pays great tribute to the artist and his work! Must see!

  • 2/5 Robert D. 4 years ago on Google
    Didn't actually go in. Didn't want to pay the price of admission to a place that I used to visit for free. I assume as a gallery you make your money selling art, not as a tourist attraction.

  • 5/5 Gail C. 4 years ago on Google
    Charming, informative

  • 3/5 Lynn H. 4 years ago on Google
    Just not my kind of art Staff is great! Met some great local artists setting up in the little gallery outside!

  • 5/5 Marta D. 3 years ago on Google
    It was closed due to pandemic, but we just walked the grounds....one of my favorite places. It's like a sanctuary to me!

  • 5/5 Alexandria W. 3 years ago on Google
    Always love this inspiring property built by Ted DeGrazia ! A must see for his incredible art collection and hand built chapel home and gallery! I love to paint the chapel!

  • 5/5 Juan Sandoval O. 4 years ago on Google
    (Translated by Google) Great impression take me attention and great pleasure in the paintings thanks (Original) Gran impresión me lleve atención y gran gusto en las pinturas gracias

  • 5/5 Pat P. 4 years ago on Google
    Was totally impressed. More than I expected. Loved touring the grounds. The art was amazing. So many forms of art to see. Enjoyed the video he did. Well worth the trip. Beautiful. Will be back and telling all my friends to put on their bucket list.

  • 5/5 Gary G. 4 years ago on Google
    DeGraza is one of the most influential artist of the Southwest. His display of art is amazing. A must see.

  • 5/5 Howard R. 4 years ago on Google
    Wonderful Tucson gem, hiding in plain sight on North Swan. The gallery is clean and we'll organized. The art pieces are separated enough from each other so that you can enjoy each one. The grounds are awesome to explore. The art hidden in the courtyards was probably my favorite thing.

  • 4/5 Bobby M. 4 years ago on Google
    This place is good. I didn't give it 5 stars because the variety of art work is not their. But the fact that you can see a grave and a house in a church in a gallery all-in-one place is amazing

  • 5/5 John C. 4 years ago on Google
    Lots of history and wonderful artwork displayed. Can also buy prints of his paintings at very reasonable prices.

  • 5/5 Paul S. 3 years ago on Google
    DeGrazia is never disappointing. A must visit for everybody!

  • 5/5 Shannon D. 4 years ago on Google
    What a tribute to a truly talented and passionate human! This gallery and previous home to DeGrazia was stunning in it's simplicity and depth. Each room lovingly created and designed by an artist. I really enjoyed the flow of the self-guided tour. The art immediately takes me back to my childhood and my grandmother's love for his paintings. The garden area was also a favorite for our little group as well. The garden is home to a fountain with another beautiful piece of sculpture art created by DeGrazia as well. What a talent, what an experience. I highly recommend this gem!

  • 5/5 Barney S. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful art in the many mediums of Arizona native DeGrazia. Be sure to see the film that explains his concept and design of the studio. Many of the special touches and meaningful symbolism you probably did not notice, but DeGrazia thought of everything.

  • 5/5 Zach 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful artwork, great history

  • 5/5 Roger L. 4 years ago on Google
    Nice to see the work of such a creative mind and talented artist in a serene corner of Tucson.

  • 5/5 Stephen M. 4 years ago on Google
    Wonderful gallery

  • 5/5 Love A. 4 years ago on Google
    I loved it, true Arizona art.

  • 5/5 Claudia G. 4 years ago on Google
    Definitely a great place to see in Tucson Arizona

  • 5/5 William G. 4 years ago on Google
    Very interesting and historical. Great for dedicated artists and also the curious. They have an art gallery but we didn't get there in time but we were able to walk through the studios and talk with the artists and residents.

  • 5/5 MaryJane B. 4 years ago on Google
    The paintings are extraordinary.

  • 5/5 B.Louie Y. 4 years ago on Google
    This is a beautiful way of displaying DeGrazias work. For a small fee of $8, you can see his incredible art. Wonder around the grounds as well. If you like desert scenery, you'll like this.

  • 5/5 Debbie U. 4 years ago on Google
    A must visit while in Tucson. What a local gem

  • 5/5 Anthony V. 4 years ago on Google
    Very interesting museum and gallery. Worth the time to visit. Great little gift shop. Very friendly staff.

  • 5/5 Shawna L. 4 years ago on Google
    I love going there to enjoy the desert and history that once ran rampant there!

  • 5/5 Bruce B. 4 years ago on Google
    Fabulous, we just had to buy some of the art.

  • 5/5 Steve T. 4 years ago on Google
    DeGrazia did so much more than paint. Sculptures, interior design, architectural. Even the floor is amazing.

  • 5/5 George G. 4 years ago on Google
    Unique

  • 5/5 Tish Y. 4 years ago on Google
    The absolute beauty of this place cannot be expressed with words nor photos. The art is exquisite.

  • 5/5 Roxanne N. 4 years ago on Google
    Amazing display of color and texture throughout the complex.

  • 5/5 Tom M. 4 years ago on Google
    A creative genius' last rest

  • 5/5 Luke G. 4 years ago on Google
    Beautiful art gallery, dog friendly, especially the staff. Our puppies had a great walk!

  • 5/5 Rosa B. 4 years ago on Google
    Awesome! Beautiful outdoor space!


Call +1 520-299-9191 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

Trends



Last updated:

Similar Tourist attractions nearby

Last updated:
()