Introducing the New ART PATIO at Artemizia Foundation
- Artemizia Foundation
- Oct 10
- 2 min read
As visitors ascend the welcoming ramp to the Artemizia Foundation in historic Bisbee, they’ll now be greeted by a stunning new outdoor feature — the ART PATIO. This vibrant new space transforms the museum’s south side into an open-air gallery, seamlessly blending contemporary art with the unique character of Bisbee’s creative spirit.
A Mural Celebration by Jessica Gonzales
Dominating one wall of the ART PATIO is a bold and colorful mural by Tucson-based, award-winning artist Jessica Gonzales. Known for her dynamic, expressive style and ability to merge abstraction with emotion, Gonzales has created a work that reflects the energy, diversity, and artistic vitality of southern Arizona. The mural serves as a powerful visual prelude to the museum experience — an invitation to enter a world where art and imagination thrive.
“Walking Man” by John Tuomisto-Bell
At the heart of the patio stands a larger-than-life bronze sculpture titled Walking Man by Phoenix sculptor John Tuomisto-Bell. Poised mid-stride, the figure captures a sense of motion and quiet determination — a fitting metaphor for the journey of both artist and viewer. Tuomisto-Bell’s meticulous craftsmanship and attention to human form bring an elegant, almost meditative quality to this monumental piece, which anchors the space with presence and grace.
A Prelude to What’s Next
The ART PATIO also heralds what’s to come inside the museum. Jessica Gonzales will return this fall as the featured artist in Artemizia’s Gallery 818, where she will present a solo exhibition opening November 22, 2025, and running through January 4, 2026. The exhibition will expand on the visual language introduced in her mural, offering a deeper exploration of color, form, and emotion.
A Place to Pause, Reflect, and Connect
The ART PATIO is more than an entryway — it’s a splace for reflection and inspiration. Visitors can linger beneath the Bisbee skies, enjoy the interplay of art and architecture, and experience how public art enhances our sense of place and community.
With this new addition, the Artemizia Foundation continues its mission to showcase boundary-pushing artists from Arizona and around the world, while enriching the cultural landscape of the Southwest.
