In the DeGrazia Gallery
On the tram at Sabino Canyon
Joyce Shumate
On May 17 the TRIPS Educational Group escorted 25 residents and guests to Sabino Canyon, DeGrazia Gallery and lunch at Trattoria Pina Cucina Italian restaurant.
Sabino Canyon tram ride was the start of the tour that included a narrated educational 3.8 mile tram ride into the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains. A few participants chose to walk down part of the way to take in the Sabino Canyon natural desert oasis and took photos. There was ample time to enjoy the educational exhibits in the visitor center with hands-on exhibits and a theater that included a video of Sabino Canyon information.
After experiencing the exquisite beauty of Sabino Canyon everyone headed to Trattoria Pina to enjoy lunch. The table was set for us in their private dining room. The atmosphere was elegant with ample portions of delicious food.
A scheduled guided tour by Education Director Shannon Rossomando followed at the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun. This beautiful gallery and gardens gives you the true perspective of DeGrazia and his lifestyle. The group walked through his home, visited his grave site and entered a chapel that he built on the property which included murals that he painted on the walls that are so colorful.
The gallery displays of some of the 15,000 DeGrazia originals that are housed in the permanent collection including oils, watercolors, sketches, serigraphs, lithographs, sculptures, ceramics and jewelry. It is surprising how many different mediums he used on his artistic work.
This was a day that was enjoyed by everyone. TRIPS tours, which run from October through May, are open… Look for announcements in the Quail Creek Crossing and What’s Happening.