A Gilbert artist has a solo exhibit of 50 fine-art photographs showcased at Arizona State University Gammage on the Tempe campus through the end of the year.

What does it take to be one of the Phoenix Fridas?

When he first started out, artist Patrick Coffaro wouldn’t think of using bright colors. “I did a lot of nature,” he said. “Weeds. Thistles. Stuff like that. Basically, it was all earth tones.”

Cynthia “CJ” Rider has sketched pencil drawings of cactuses, whipped up elaborate oil paintings of scenic mountain ranges, and created whimsical patterns on fiberglass horses.

Barbara Samanich’s illustrations are best described by the same words that have been used to describe children’s fairy tales: Whimsical, playful, imaginative, fun. The colors are always bright and the subjects expressive. Images busy, yet at the same time, gentle.

Naming herself after the provincial flower of Alberta, Canada, Loca Rosa is a performer with international flair.

Chandler Centennial organizers are extending the application deadline for vendors and artists who want to participate in the May events that will celebrate the city’s 100th birthday.