TUCSON, AZ – As downtown development comes to life, shared community roots begin to blossom into fantastic collaborations. Lisa Krikawa—Master Jeweler and owner of Krikawa Jewelry Designs—spent her University of Arizona Gallery Management internship under the professional tutelage of Terry Etherton of Etherton Gallery. Twenty years later, this powerhouse duo of creativity and downtown revitalization are collaborating again.
Lisa’s gallery—located in the historic Daniel’s Jewelers storefront, dating back to the 20’s in Tucson—features her original designs and the work of other Arizona artists. Her gallery and workspace employs seven UA alumni and Lisa is dedicated to a hearty involvement in the exciting downtown scene. The superlative Etherton Gallery enjoys a keystone niche in downtown’s draw. It was simply genius to bring these two galleries together in a single space.
The resulting exhibit was, Sparklegasm! conceived to bring together the most visually stunning pieces of wearable art with the most provocative works from the archives of Etherton’s black and white collection. The result is a feast for the eyes and a downtown treasure to share with lovers, downtown and beyond.
Having combined their U of A pride, their love for our community and their understanding of what it is that makes Tucson so special, Lisa and Terry now look forward to producing more shows together. “Seeing more and more people come downtown for shopping, dining, music and art makes us all feel so proud and happy! As a student 20 years ago, it was not something I could imagine but we will continue to offer outstanding opportunities for everyone to enjoy the best that Tucson has to offer. Tucson is gaining a worldwide reputation as an art, food and entertainment destination.”—Lisa Krikawa
Sparklegasm! Is the collaboration of archival photographic works curated by Terry Etherton and Jewelry created and curated by Lisa Krikawa. The show is open to the public through spring. The gallery is located at 21 East Congress Street.