In this episode of Big Blend Radio, we’re joined by Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, to honor the life and legacy of Ted DeGrazia on what would be his 116th birthday (Flag Day, June 14).

Known as one of the most reproduced artists in the world, DeGrazia captured the spirit of the Southwest through bold, expressive paintings that reflected the region’s people, cultures, and landscapes. From his deep connections to Native American and Mexican traditions, to his contributions to Arizona Highways magazine, DeGrazia’s work continues to inspire generations.

🎧 In This Episode: * The history and mission of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a 10-acre National Historic Landmark in Tucson * Stories behind current exhibits: Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera and Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia (on display through Sept. 3, 2025) * DeGrazia’s ongoing influence on art, culture, and community dialogue

📍 Did You Know? * DeGrazia once made his own flag * He was featured and honored by Arizona Highways for his unique artistic voice * The gallery provides a cool and creative escape during Tucson’s hot summers

🔗 Learn more: http://www.degrazia.org 🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday 📲 Follow the podcast: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com

Celebrate Women's History Month with this episode of Big Blend Radio's "Tales of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia" Podcast. Featuring Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, this episode focuses on some of the noteworthy women in Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia's life including his Mother, first wife Alexandra Diamos, second wife artist Marion DeGrazia, Carol Locust - Mother of musician Domingo DeGrazia, photographer Louise Serpa, and even country singer Sammi Smith.

Current exhibits at DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun include "Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera" (until Sept. 3, 2025), “Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia” (until Sept. 3, 2025), and “The Way of the Cross” (until May 28, 2025). The Little Gallery is also host to visiting artists from now through April 4, 2025.

Also hear about the exhibit "Bisbee Through the Eyes of Ted DeGrazia" on display at the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum and the Muheim Heritage House, in Bisbee AZ, through May 26, 2025.

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. Opened in 1965, it is home to over 15,000 originals of Ted DeGrazia art pieces including oil paintings, watercolors, ceramics and sculptures. There are six permanent collections on display and several rotating exhibitions each year. More: http://www.degrazia.org/

This Big Blend Radio "Tales of Ted DeGrazia" podcast airs every 4th Sunday. Follow the show here: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com/

Featuring Lance Laber, Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, this episode of Big Blend Radio focuses on the new exhibits featuring southwest artist Ted DeGrazia.

New exhibits at DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun include "Ted DeGrazia in the Studio of Diego Rivera" (Jan. 31 - Sept. 3, 2025), “Louise Serpa's Portraits of Ted DeGrazia” (Jan. 31 - Sept. 3, 2025), and “The Way of the Cross” (Jan. 31 - May 28, 2025). The Little Gallery is also host to visiting artists from now through April 4, 2025.

Also hear about the exhibit "Bisbee Through the Eyes of Ted DeGrazia" on display at the Bisbee Mining and Historical Museum and the Muheim Heritage House, in Bisbee AZ, through May 26, 2025.

DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre historic landmark nestled in the foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson, Arizona. Opened in 1965, it is home to over 15,000 originals of Ted DeGrazia art pieces including oil paintings, watercolors, ceramics and sculptures. There are six permanent collections on display and several rotating exhibitions each year. More: http://www.degrazia.org/

This Big Blend Radio "Tales of Ted DeGrazia" podcast airs every 4th Sunday. Follow the show here: https://ted-degrazia.podbean.com/