EDONA, Ariz. – The city invites the public to its next artist reception on Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 4 to 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers, located at 102 Roadrunner Dr. to view Ruth Austin’s exhibit, replete with joyful, nature-inspired mixed media collages. Special musical guest will be award-winning Chapman Stick player, Michael Kollwitz.
Austin, a native New Yorker, spent her later childhood years in Flagstaff. From a young age, art became an avenue of joy, which is seen now in her blend of graphic design precision with textured mixed media collages. She took every possible art class since her teenage years and eventually earned her bachelor’s degree in graphic design from Northern Arizona University in 1986. Since launching her art career, Austin has sold more than 115 original paintings and hundreds of prints through The Artists’ Gallery in Flagstaff and the Sedona Artist Market.
This solo exhibition features a mix of original paintings and framed prints showcasing Austin’s vibrant, whimsical style. Her collages layer hand-printed papers, vintage materials and bold color to create work that draws on the landscapes, wildlife and flora of the American Southwest. Her mixed media process combines acrylics, oil sticks, spray paint, alcohol inks, charcoal, gold leaf, pastels, and collage elements that include pages from old books, letters and journals. The result is richly textured artwork that invites viewers to look closer and discover the detai
“I believe art should make you feel happy the moment you see it. Every piece I create starts with a feeling — the warmth of a sunset, the way wildflowers push through rocky ground or the flash of a bluebird against a blue sky. I want people to walk into this exhibition and feel joy. I want them to smile,” said Austin.
“When I took a mixed media class at Sedona Art Center, Ruth was sitting diagonal to me. I was impressed with her technique and after I viewed more of her pieces, I knew her cheerful art would make a wonderful exhibit at City Hall during spring and summer. This display promises to uplift the viewer and I hope the public takes time to enjoy this beautiful show,” said Nancy Lattanzi, arts and culture specialist.
Austin’s work will be on display through Thursday, Aug. 27, 2026.