Events: Arizona - Phoenix - Scottsdale

Experience the magic of art, culture, and community at our 33rd Annual Winter Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival! This year's celebration promises to be unforgettable, with an extraordinary lineup of talented artists displaying their stunning works across multiple mediums.

Immerse yourself in art, wine, and music at the Winter Carefree Fine Art & Wine Festival. The streets in downtown transform into a haven of creativity, featuring exceptional fine artworks of more than 165 talented artists showcasing handmade masterpieces, including: vibrant oil, acrylic and watercolor paintings, sculptures of intricate stone, wood, and metal, beautifully crafted ceramics, unique and handmade jewelry pieces and more.

Art:

Discover exceptional art at Thunderbird Artists, where our carefully curated selection showcases a diverse range of mediums and styles. From traditional to contemporary, our collection caters to every collector's taste. Our rigorous jury process ensures that only the finest artists are represented, guaranteeing craftsmanship and authenticity in every piece. Meet the artists, learn about their inspirations, and experience the vibrant atmosphere that makes each artwork truly special. Every piece tells a story, and every collector becomes a part of it. This year’s featured artist is bronze sculptor, Mike Dwyer.

Wine and Spirits:                   

Savor the perfect blend of art and wine at the festival! Stroll through the event and discover exceptional artworks while indulging in fine wines from renowned wineries. A Carefree local, Celestial Artisan Meadery, is a small, family-owned company, with a passion for creating exceptional meads and craft ciders with the community. The meadery is dedicated to crafting unique, gluten-free, and non-GMO meads using modern techniques and innovative flavors while honoring ancient traditions. Another returning favorite is Wilson Creek Winery. Wilson Creek Winery, founded by Gerry and Rosie Wilson, is a beloved destination in Temecula Valley, California. The winery is renowned for its signature Almond Sparkling Wine, Frosé, and variety of quality wines. Recently, Gerry and Rosie Wilson were inducted into the Temecula Valley Wine Country Hall of Fame, recognizing their visionary leadership, community impact, and contributions to the wine industry. In addition to Celestial and Wilson Creek, the event hosts international, local and domestic wines, spirits and microbrews.

About Thunderbird Artists:

Since 1981, Thunderbird Artists, a family owned and operated business, has been a driving force in the Southwest's fine art scene. By showcasing exceptional talent and implementing strategic promotion and marketing initiatives, Thunderbird Artists has elevated artist exposure and recognition, shaped the art landscape in Arizona cities, enriching the cultural fabric, while providing a platform for artists to connect with patrons and share their creative vision. Through its dedication to artistic excellence, Thunderbird Artists continues to thrive as a premier producer of fine art events in the Southwest.

Thunderbird Artists' success stems from its unrelenting pursuit of quality and excellence. Each carefully juried event showcases a diverse range of artistic styles and mediums, catering to every art enthusiast's taste. This commitment to showcasing the best has earned Thunderbird Artists industry recognition and accolades.

Their festivals are distinguished by unparalleled jury standards, featuring exceptional artwork, live music, delicious food, and engaging activities that create a unique experience. The lively atmosphere fosters connections among artists andattendees, making it an ideal setting for networking and building relationships.

Thunderbird Artists’ Festival’s Featured Artist for Carefree: Bronze Sculptor, Mike Dwyer                      

Mike Dwyer is a renowned bronze sculptor known for his captivating wildlife and figurative works that showcase his mastery of texture and form. With a passion for creating art that resonates with collectors and enthusiasts alike, Mike's sculptures have been featured in numerous exhibitions and festivals, earning him a reputation as a leading figure in the world of bronze art.

Mike's artistic journey began in elementary school, where he channeled his passion for birds and wildlife into sculpting clay animals and firing them in a kiln. Growing up amidst the untouched desert landscapes of Scottsdale, Arizona, sparked a lifelong fascination with wildlife observation and study. He further pursued his passion, earning a master’s degree in wildlife studies with a focus on Ornithology from Fort Hays State University. During this time, he created his first waterfowl carving, a Northern Shoveler, from Basswood. As his skills evolved, Mike transitioned from carving to sculpting in clay and eventually casting in bronze, producing captivating compositions of birds and animals in Loveland, Colorado.