Tales of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia

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Lance Laber, Executive Director of DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, shares stories about the life and art career of southwest artist Ted DeGrazia, as well as current events and exhibits at the gallery. Located in Tucson, Arizona, DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre National Historic District designed and built by acclaimed Arizona artist Ted DeGrazia. New episodes air every 4th Sunday.

  1. Jun 28

    Painted Ponies: Exploring Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia's Joyful Side

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Tales of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia" Podcast, Executive Director Lance Laber shares the story behind the new "Ted DeGrazia's Painted Ponies" exhibit at the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun in Tucson, Arizona. Featuring paintings, watercolors, sculptures, carousel horses, and merry-go-round imagery, this colorful new exhibition celebrates Ted DeGrazia's lifelong fascination with horses, childhood, imagination, and joy. Lance discusses how DeGrazia captured emotion through his art, his love of children, and why these cheerful works reveal another side of one of the world's most reproduced artists. The conversation also revisits the remarkable story behind DeGrazia's 1975 tax protest, when he burned over a million dollars' worth of his own paintings in Arizona's Superstition Mountains, celebrates his Flag Day birth anniversary, and explores the gallery's current rotating exhibits, including "Ted DeGrazia's Unseen Landscapes" and "DeGrazia Paints the Seri Indians." Known as one of the most reproduced artists in the world, Ted DeGrazia captured the spirit of the Southwest through bold, expressive paintings that reflected the region's people, cultures, landscapes, and traditions. Today, his legacy continues through the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a National Historic Landmark nestled in the foothills of Tucson's Santa Catalina Mountains. Current Rotating Exhibits • Ted DeGrazia's Painted Ponies – On display through January 27, 2027, featuring cheerful paintings, sculptures, carousel horses, and merry-go-round imagery celebrating childhood wonder. • Ted DeGrazia's Unseen Landscapes – Rare watercolors, oils, and ink drawings hidden from public view for decades. On display through September 2, 2026. • DeGrazia Paints the Seri Indians – A fascinating look at DeGrazia's documentation of the Comcaac (Seri) people of Sonora, Mexico. On display through September 2, 2026. DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre National Historic Landmark featuring over 15,000 original works of art, including paintings, ceramics, sculptures, and more. Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org  🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday. Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com

  2. Apr 26

    Getting to Know Lance Laber: Hidden Stories & the Legacy of Artist Ted DeGrazia

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we get to know Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun in Tucson, Arizona, through our signature “Getting to Know You” questions. Along the way, Lance shares fascinating insights into the life, art, and legacy of renowned Southwest artist Ted DeGrazia, one of the most reproduced artists in the world. From DeGrazia’s early years and artistic journey to the creation of his iconic 10-acre gallery—now a National Historic Landmark—this conversation explores the people, landscapes, and cultures that shaped his work across the American Southwest and into Mexico. You will also hear the incredible story of DeGrazia’s infamous tax protest, where he burned over a million dollars’ worth of his own artwork, as well as the enduring legend of hidden paintings rumored to be buried in Arizona’s Superstition Mountains—adding a layer of mystery to his already legendary career. The episode also touches on current and upcoming exhibits, special events at the gallery, and the continued cultural impact of DeGrazia’s work in Tucson and beyond. 🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org  🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday. Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com

  3. Jan 26

    Spring Exhibits at DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun: Unseen Stories & Sacred Traditions

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Tales of Ted DeGrazia" Podcast, we spotlight the exciting new spring exhibitions at the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum in Tucson, Arizona. The conversation explores the cultural, spiritual, and landscape-driven works of renowned Southwest artist Ted DeGrazia, highlighting rarely seen pieces now on public display. Opening with a special reception on Friday, January 30, from 5:00–7:00 p.m., the new exhibits include “DeGrazia Paints the Seri Indians,” “Ted DeGrazia’s Unseen Landscapes,” and the annual Lenten presentation of “The Way of the Cross.” Executive Director Lance Laber shares insight into DeGrazia’s prolific career, the importance of cultural preservation through art, and the gallery’s role as a National Historic Landmark dedicated to Southwest history and heritage. NEW EXHIBITS INCLUDE:  * DeGrazia Paints the Seri Indians: Featuring more than a dozen paintings documenting the Comcaac (Seri) people of coastal Sonora, Mexico, many shown publicly for the first time. On display through Sept. 2, 2026. * Ted DeGrazia’s Unseen Landscapes: Watercolors, ink drawings, and oil paintings of the Sonoran Desert and beyond, some hidden in storage for more than 70 years. On display through Sept. 2, 2026. * The Way of the Cross: Fifteen original oil paintings depicting the Passion of Christ, including the Resurrection as the fifteenth station, accompanied by DeGrazia’s recorded narration. On display through May 28, 2026. DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum is a 10-acre historic landmark designed and built by the artist himself, housing thousands of original works that reflect the people, landscapes, and cultural traditions of the Southwest. Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org  New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday. Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com  This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Way Back When,” and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

  4. 11/09/2025

    Art, Community & Celebration at DeGrazia Gallery in Tucson

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Tales of Ted DeGrazia" Show, Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Foundation, shares updates on the latest exhibits, visiting artists, and the annual La Fiesta de Guadalupe celebration at DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun in Tucson, Arizona. The conversation highlights Ted DeGrazia’s artistic legacy, the gallery’s focus on Southwest culture, and its continued role as a creative hub connecting art, history, and community. CURRENT ROTATING EXHIBITS (through Jan. 28, 2026): - Brush Drawings of Ted DeGrazia – expressive works from 1945–1963 capturing movement, energy, and emotion. - DeGrazia’s Pastels – soft, impressionistic pieces (1953–1978), many displayed for the first time. - Ceramic Paintings of Ted DeGrazia – vibrant, tactile works on ceramic forms featuring angels, Madonnas, and Southwest motifs. THE LITTLE GALLERY GUEST ARTISTS (Nov 2025 – Apr 2026): Rotating local and regional artists showcase oil, digital, and mixed media works, including paintings, ceramics, fused glass, photography, and landscapes by Mark Prusten, Max Hewlett, Caleb Gutierrez, Alisa Raines, Carole Fisher & Suzanne Hodges, Ambika Wauters, Joanna Pregon, Erik Sletten, Anna Lee Keefer, Mary Sherwood, and Wendy Islas. LA FIESTA DE GUADALUPE – Sunday, Dec. 14, 2025: This free annual celebration honors Mexico’s patron saint with mariachi music, Folklorico dancers, Yaqui Deer Dancers, local food, art vendors, and fun for all ages. Located in Tucson, Arizona, the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark that houses more than 15,000 original works. Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org  🎙️ Listen to Tales of Ted DeGrazia:  https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com  This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Way Back When,” and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

  5. 08/31/2025

    DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun - Pastels, Ceramics & Brush Drawings

    Celebrate American Artist Appreciation Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio featuring Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun. Lance shares details about the gallery’s new rotating exhibits on view from September 5, 2025 through January 28, 2026. These special collections highlight different dimensions of the artistry of Ted DeGrazia, one of the most reproduced artists in the world. The fall/winter exhibits include: - Brush Drawings of Ted DeGrazia (1945-1963): Bold, fluid works created without a pen, capturing children at play, ballerinas in motion, cowboys, horses, musicians, and miners. - Ceramic Paintings of Ted DeGrazia: Figurative works painted on ceramic plates and sculptural forms, featuring beloved subjects like angels, madonnas, roadrunners, and petroglyph-inspired designs. - DeGrazia’s Pastels (1953-1978): A rare showcase of impressionistic pastel drawings, many never before displayed, including live demonstration pieces created during public events. This conversation also explores DeGrazia’s creative process, his impact on the Southwest art scene, and the gallery’s role as a cultural landmark and community hub in Tucson, Arizona. 🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org  🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday 📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com  This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend" and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

  6. 07/27/2025

    Ted DeGrazia Paints Papago Indian Legends

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio, Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, shares the fascinating stories behind the permanent exhibit “DeGrazia Paints Papago Indian Legends.” Created in 1975, the series was inspired by traditional Papago (now Tohono O’odham, meaning “desert people”) legends, including The Creation of the World, The Monster of Quitovac, The Eagle-Man, and Ho’ok. Through vivid, expressive imagery, DeGrazia honored these Indigenous stories, helping preserve their cultural significance through visual storytelling. Lance also talks about the life and legacy of renowned Southwest artist Ted DeGrazia, whose bold work remains among the most reproduced in the world. The conversation covers DeGrazia's deep ties to Native American and Mexican heritage, his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, and his influence on generations of art lovers. You'll also hear about the current rotating exhibits on display through September 3, 2025: “Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera,” “Louise Serpa’s Portraits of Ted DeGrazia,” and “The Way of the Cross.”  Located in Tucson, Arizona, the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark that houses more than 15,000 original works. Open 361 days a year, the gallery offers a unique glimpse into the artistic spirit of the Southwest. 🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org  🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday 📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com  This episode also airs on Big Blend Radio’s “Big Daily Blend,” “Way Back When,” and “Toast to The Arts” podcast channels. Explore the Big Blend Radio Network: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/bigblendradionetwork

  7. 05/26/2025

    Celebrating 116 Years of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia

    In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, to honor the life and legacy of Ted DeGrazia on what would be his 116th birthday (Flag Day, June 14). Known as one of the most reproduced artists in the world, DeGrazia captured the spirit of the Southwest through bold, expressive paintings that reflected the region’s people, cultures, and landscapes. From his deep connections to Native American and Mexican traditions, to his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, DeGrazia’s work continues to inspire generations. 🎧 In This Episode: * The history and mission of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a 10-acre National Historic Landmark in Tucson * Stories behind current exhibits: Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera and Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia (on display through Sept. 3, 2025) * DeGrazia’s ongoing influence on art, culture, and community dialogue 📍 Did You Know? * DeGrazia once made his own flag * He was featured and honored by Arizona Highways for his unique artistic voice * The gallery provides a cool and creative escape during Tucson’s hot summers 🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org  🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday 📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com

  8. 03/23/2025

    Noteworthy Women in Artist Ted DeGrazia’s Life

    Celebrate Women's History Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Tales of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia" Podcast. Featuring Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, this episode focuses on some of the noteworthy women in Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia's life including his Mother, first wife Alexandra Diamos, second wife artist Marion DeGrazia, Carol Locust - Mother of musician Domingo DeGrazia, photographer Louise Serpa, and even country singer Sammi Smith. Current exhibits at DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun include "Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera" (until Sept. 3, 2025), “Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia” (until Sept. 3, 2025), and “The Way of the Cross” (until May 28, 2025). The Little Gallery is also host to visiting artists from now through April 4, 2025.  Also hear about the exhibit "Bisbee Through the Eyes of Ted DeGrazia" on display at the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum and the Muheim Heritage House, in Bisbee AZ,  through May 26, 2025. DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. Opened in 1965, it is home to over 15,000 originals of Ted DeGrazia art pieces including oil paintings, watercolors, ceramics and sculptures. There are six permanent collections on display and several rotating exhibitions each year. More: http://www.degrazia.org/  This Big Blend Radio "Tales of Ted DeGrazia" podcast airs every 4th Sunday. Follow the show here: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com/

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Lance Laber, Executive Director of DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, shares stories about the life and art career of southwest artist Ted DeGrazia, as well as current events and exhibits at the gallery. Located in Tucson, Arizona, DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre National Historic District designed and built by acclaimed Arizona artist Ted DeGrazia. New episodes air every 4th Sunday.

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