Shown on our cover are some of the fabulous featured ceramics from the upcoming Mid Mod Ceramics AZ pt 1 Exhibition at Sunshine Shop Tucson, which runs from March 24 through May 5 displaying art by Rose Cabat, Erni Cabat, Maurice Grossman, Joyce McCullough and more.
This is the first in a series of exhibitions featuring regional ceramic artists in an effort to contextualize the modernist art of ceramics and pottery. The series will focus on the Southwest’s historic significance during this era. Sunshine Shop Tucson will offer modernist ceramic artworks for sale, as well as private collection examples for viewing. An Opening Reception will be held on Saturday, March 23, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
I recently had the delightful opportunity of meeting with Sunshine Shop Tucson Founder and Director Patricia Katchur on a day when the shop was closed. Even though she was busy preparing for a weekend exhibit, we had time to explore and she introduced me to a wonderful world of design on display in this fabulous shop.
Sunshine Shop Tucson is in the Historic Hirsh’s Shoes Building, which has a history all its own. Built in 1954, the shoe store was one of the first mid-century modern buildings on what was and is now again referred to as the Sunshine Mile on Broadway Blvd. In 2016, the Tucson Historic Preservation Foundation (THPF) took ownership and invited Patricia to host a shop in the retail front.
Patricia’s concept for the shop was simple—create a retail space that befitted the location, hence, well-crafted mid-century modern furniture plus Tucson/Arizona related goods. And, drawing on her background in Fine Art Photography and Art History, to create a gallery with an emphasis on regional Modern to Contemporary Art/Artists to help explore the Southwestern culture. Almost immediately she realized Sunshine Shop Tucson was her future.
Patricia loves history, and enjoys sharing her knowledge about the art, the mid-century furniture and the artists themselves. She described how a group of local artists, back in the day, were friends and spent time together. Many of the pieces of these artists are for sale and on display. Some of the artists have passed away but their children, who grew up together and spent time playing while their parents socialized, come by the shop and attend the exhibits to share in their parents’ history. It would make for an interesting book on Tucson’s history!
As owner, director and curator for Sunshine Shop Tucson, Patricia partners with professionals who add a unique perspective with their art, craft or wares. She works closely with Gino Baldasare, a dealer/collector who has an extensive knowledge of mid-century modern furniture and art. Kathy McMahon of Midcenturyville also retails furniture at the shop. Artists Valerie Galloway, Sharon Holnback (Triangle L Ranch), Elizabeth Frank, Heather Bentz and Andy Burgess (courtesy Etherton Gallery) always have artwork on view for purchase. Jewelry by Rameen Ahmed Designs, Michelle Spanyard Designs and Little Toro Designs are always available. June Cabat, daughter of Rose and Erni Cabat, has a wonderful selection of Feelies, Stoneware and artwork straight from Cabat Studio. The DeGrazia Archive offers a selection of Ted DeGrazia art. Vera Neumann Original Art is available, courtesy of Susan Seid and a rotating selection of artwork from Etherton Gallery can be found.
Offerings also include authentic Mid-Century Modern, 20th Century Modern, Danish & Scandinavian Modern (and occasionally Modern Contemporary) Furniture by designers and manufacturers including: Eames, Knoll, George Nelson, Paul McCobb, Westnofa, Alva Aalto, Grete Jalk, France & Son, Max Gottschalk, Dansk, Lightolier and many more. Modern Artists, largely regional, include Rose Cabat, Maurice Grossman and Nik Krevitsky. Contemporary Jewelry by Little Toro Designs and Rameen Ahmend Designs. Vintage Modernist Jewelry includes Taxco, Mexican Silver, handmade and Native American.
Patricia said Sunshine Shop’s mission is to define the impact for the Southwest region art scene and cultural, modern through contemporary from a historical perspective. She has a focused vision and is looking forward to growing in a creative and lucrative direction. Celebrating the shop’s two years was a very positive milestone and she is very excited about several projects she is working on for the future. So, stay tuned!
Sunshine Shop Tucson is at 2934 E Broadway Blvd. and is open Thursday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. or by appointment at 520-389-4776. Learn more at https://sunshineshoptucson.com, https://www.instagram.com/sunshineshoptucson/, https://www.etsy.com/shop/SunshineShopTucson or https://www.facebook.com/sunshineshoptucson/. You can also email hello@sunshineshoptucson.com.