Highlights from MicroDwell at Shemer

Here’s hoping that MicroDwell, a gathering of ideas on sustainable housing embracing a minimal footprint, continues to be an annual outdoor exhibit at Shemer Art Center in Arcadia. It’s good for the neighborhood and good for the integration of art, design, architecture and environmental concerns.

Patrick McCue, one of the organizers, estimates that 1,500 people attended “MicroDwells & MicroBrews,” a November 17, 2012, opening event featuring meet-and-greets with the Arizona creators of the microdwellings on display, plus artist booths, demonstrations, live music and beer samplings from local microbreweries. It was a beautiful day for it, so I am glad to hear of the high attendance.

My slide show gives you highlights, but try to see MicroDwell 2012 yourself. The display runs through December 31, 2012.

All around the Shemer grounds are wonderful bronze and steel sculptures by local artists. I spoke with Robert Hartl, whose flowing and harmonious sculpture is near the museum entrance. Check out the entire

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sculpture garden while you are there.

Also step inside the center to see an illuminating fiber arts exhibit — fabric like you’ve probably never seen it. I was especially intrigued by an Ann Morton quilt using denim from a migrant woman’s jeans. It’s pieced together to be a QR code; when you hold your smartphone to the code, you learn the story behind the quilt.

I read in the Arcadia News that despite being a City of Phoenix site, Shemer’s only source of revenue right now is from classes and workshops. To see how you can offer support, go to shemerartcenter.org.