With its turquoise skies, neon sunsets, rugged mountains and magnificent landscape, it’s no wonder Scottsdale, Arizona inspires so much artistic expression and appreciation. In fact, numerous galleries, museums and theaters host a host of events that keep visitors and audiences enthralled year-round.

Those lucky enough to own a luxury home or Scottsdale real estate need look no further than their hometown when in the mood for top-notch arts and cultural entertainment, museums, galleries and other venues. For example, the award-winning Scottsdale Desert Stage Theatre offers children’s, Mainstage and small-cast professional productions. Scottsdale Desert Stage’s 136-seat theater-in-the-round provides an interactive audience experience, while its Cullity Hall productions feature actors of all ages. Children’s Theatre productions work with performers aged 3 to 19, and the Theatre also operates the Academy of Theatrical Arts.

Downtown Scottsdale’s Old Town Arts District is famous for its outstanding fine art galleries that showcase masterful works by artists from around the world, both past and present. Scottsdale is also the center for two seasonal art shows—Art Expo and Celebration of Fine Art. January through March, these shows boast hundreds of noted artists who represent a broad spectrum of both style and mediums.

The Scottsdale Museum of Contemporary Art (SMoCA) displays contemporary and modern art and architecture. The five-gallery minimalist building itself is a work-of-art that renowned architect Will Bruder designed as a remodel of a movie theater. Designed by acclaimed artist James Turrell, the public “skyspace” provides visitors with the opportunity to experience the changing desert light. Educational programs, new exhibits and special events keep visitors coming back for more.

Every Thursday evening, Downtown Scottsdale’s Main Street, Marshall Way and nearby side-streets come alive with art-lovers strolling from gallery to gallery. An interactive map has been added online and “ArtWalk the Line” street markers are painted on Scottsdale Arts District’s sidewalks to guide visitors along the ArtWalk route any day of the week.

ArtWalk’s popularity has spawned a few themed ArtWalk events, including July’s Summer Spectacular ArtWalk and October’s Western ArtWalk and Taste of ArtWalk. For current ArtWalk event information, visit www.scottsdalegalleries.com.

Meanwhile, Scottsdale Center for the Arts offers an excellent repertoire of musical, dramatic and comedic performances that range from traditional to cutting-edge, plus interactive, thought-provoking educational programs. A highlight of its recent $16 million renovation is the high-tech Virginia G. Piper Theater’s plush seats, intimate atmosphere and state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting. A public art installation by artist Kana Tanaka features more than 100 blown-glass pieces illuminated with fiber-optic lighting. #RL-A-0910~2