Pima Arts 2025–2026 Season Celebrates Community, Culture and Creative Expression
Tucson, Arizona - Pima Community College proudly presents the 2025-2026 Pima Arts Season, an inspiring showcase of creativity that spans theater, music, dance, visual art, digital media and fashion. This year’s season offers audiences an extraordinary opportunity to experience the innovation of student and faculty artists alongside nationally and internationally recognized guests. With bold new performances, thought-provoking exhibitions and collaborative projects that bridge cultures and disciplines, Pima Arts continues its commitment to celebrating diversity, fostering dialogue and bringing the community together through the transformative power of the arts.
Health Science Art Gallery (New This Season)
Pima West Campus, Health Professions Center of Excellence, 2202 W. Anklam Road. Programs and exhibitions are always free to the public.
Michael Cajero – Dying Is an Integral Part of Life: Father
June 30, 2025-October 2026
Reception: 4-6 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 1, 2025
“Dying Is an Integral Part of Life: Father” showcases one of the final series created by acclaimed Tucson artist Michael Cajero, who passed away earlier this year prior to the exhibition’s opening. Through powerful and unflinching drawings, Cajero confronts themes of mortality, grief and memory, reflecting on the death of his father while leaving behind a deeply personal reflection on his own. The exhibition continues Cajero’s legacy of using art as a vehicle for honesty and confrontation, inviting viewers to engage with the universal realities of loss and the enduring presence of family.
Desert Vista Art Gallery
Pima Desert Vista Campus, Pueblo Building, 5901 S. Calle Santa Cruz. Programs and exhibitions are always free to the public.
Adam Gilliland: Osculation Aug. 20, 2025-May 27, 2026
Reception: 10 a.m.-12 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 10
Adam Gilliland is a southeastern Arizona native and has been making art in Tucson for the past 22 years. He is a graduate of Pima Community College with a degree in Fine Arts. Gilliland is a musician, husband and father. He created these drawings during the Covid-19 pandemic. “I created these pieces to cope with feelings of extreme isolation and anger, “ he says. “I wanted the images to convey the warmth of intimacy and the power of touch. Visually, my goal was to remind myself of the beauty that exists within humanity.”.
Louis Carlos Bernal Gallery
Pima West Campus, Center for the Arts, 2202 W. Anklam Road. Programs and exhibitions are always free to the public.
The Corrido of Rubén Ortiz-Torres and 3B Collective
Aug. 25-Oct. 10
Reception: 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 18; lecture, 6 p.m.
This exhibition features Los Angeles-based artist Rubén Ortiz-Torres and 3B Collective. Ortiz-Torres, a pioneer of Mexican postmodernism and professor at the University of California – San Diego, creates work across painting, photography, video and customized objects to explore cultural hybridity, globalization and the shifting meanings of everyday symbols. 3B Collective, formed by artists who met at UCLA, focuses on public art, mentorship and social justice, amplifying BIPOC voices and fostering community engagement. Together, they present a powerful dialogue on identity, transformation and the role of art in shaping and reflecting community life.
The Skin We Live In: Paintings, Prints, Photography, Drawings
Invited guest artists include Miguel Caseo (Mexico City) Ramón Sanmiquel (Spain-Oaxaca, Mexico) Artists from the collections of Dan Leach and Douglas Nielsen: Bailey Doogan; Craig Cully; Joel-Peter Witkin; Gérard Beringer; Pedro Meyer; Daniel Sprick; George Strasburger; Shen Wen and others Oct. 27-Dec. 12
Reception: 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 6; lecture, 6 p.m.
“The Skin We Live In: Paintings, Prints, Photography, Drawings,” brings together an international roster of artists whose work examines the human body as a site of identity, intimacy and lived experience. Guest artists Miguel Caseo of Mexico City and Ramón Sanmiguel of Spain and Oaxaca, Mexico, present works ranging from digital-age reflections on connection to delicate and provocative portraits that explore the complexities of human vulnerability. Works from the collections of Dan Leach and Douglas Nielsen feature Bailey Doogan, Craig Cully, Joel-Peter Witkin, Daniel Sprick and Pedro Meyer, are joined by works from George Strasburger, Shen Wen, Blair Frederich and Ed Musante, as well as others whose art offers diverse perspectives on the skin we inhabit and the stories it holds.
Artes Gráficas de Oaxaca: Rodolfo Morales, Francisco Toledo and other Graphic Artists
Feb. 2-March 13, 2026
Reception: 5-7 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 5; lecture, 6 p.m.
Rufino Tamayo, Francisco Toledo, Rodolfo Morales and Rodolfo Nieto are the pillars of modern artes gráficas in Oaxaca, Mexico. Their works, along with works by other other gráfica artists from the collection of Nancy Mayagoitia and her husband Poncho, will be featured. The couple long have collected prints and paintings representing the rich heritage of artists living in the Mexican state of Oaxaca.
Annual Juried Student Award Art Exhibition
April 6 - May 8, 2026
Reception: 3-5 p.m., Wednesday, April 15; awards ceremony, 4 p.m.
This annual exhibition brings together the jurors’ selections of the best works of student artists produced during the 2025 summer and fall semesters and spring 2026 semester from all of Pima Community College’s campuses. Jurors: TBD
Visual Arts Gallery
Pima West Campus, 2202 W. Anklam Road, Santa Rita Building, second floor. Programs and exhibitions are always free to the public.
Gary Goldberg – Pareidolia
September 22 - October 31, 2025
Reception: 4-6 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 24
The Visual Arts Gallery opens its season with “Pareidolia,” an exhibition of felted textiles and color photography by Gary Goldberg, Professor of Art at Midwestern State University. Goldberg, who is based in Berkeley, California, earned his B.F.A. from Arizona State University and his M.F.A. from the University of Nebraska. His work, held in the Library of Congress and the Harry Ransom Humanities Research Center, has been featured in Texas Monthly, Harper’s & Queen, and American Profile, as well as in numerous photography books. Goldberg is a recipient of an Emerging Artist Grant from the National Endowment for the Arts and a Rotary Foundation international exchange grant. He blends texture, color and abstraction to invite viewers to discover familiar shapes and patterns in unexpected places.
All Campus – Visual and Digital Arts Students Exhibition
Nov. 17, 2025-Jan. 30, 2026
Reception: 1-3 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 19
This annual student art exhibit celebrates the creativity, skill and innovation of Pima’s emerging artists. Featuring works from the spring, summer and fall 2025 semesters, the show offers a dynamic mix of mediums and styles, highlighting the artistic growth, dedication and unique voices of our talented students.
Umbral/Threshold: Andrés Caballero, Marcus Xavier Cormicle, Beihua Guo, Ulises Ramos, and Vanessa Saavedra
Feb. 16-April 3, 2026
Reception: Wednesday, February 25, 2-4 p.m.
“Umbral/Threshold” brings together the diverse visions of Andrés Caballero, Marcus Xavier Cormicle, Beihua Guo, Ulises Ramos and Vanessa Saavedra in a compelling exploration of boundaries, transitions and points of passage. Through varied media and perspectives, each artist invites viewers to reflect on moments of change, whether physical, emotional or cultural, where one state transforms into another. The exhibition offers a dynamic interplay of form, color and narrative, encouraging audiences to step across the threshold into new ways of seeing and understanding. The five artists examine Bachelor’s and Master’s of fine arts programs. Three or the artists are current candidates for their M.F.A. degrees in the University of Arizona School of Art.
Marietta Bernstorff: PatchWork Women from Oaxaca, Mexico
April 20 - September 4, 2026
Reception: Thursday, April 23, 3-5 p.m.
“Marietta Bernstorff: PatchWork Women from Oaxaca, Mexico” brings together the voices and visions of women artists, curators, educators, healers and community leaders from Mexico and the United States in a collaborative project that addresses violence against women, children and Mother Earth. Conceived by cultural promoter and curator Marietta Bernstorff, “Patchwork Healing Blanket” seeks to unite women across borders through art, dialogue and activism, creating a powerful statement about social responsibility and collective healing. This exhibition highlights the role of art as a bridge for communication and transformation, reminding us of the urgent need to protect our planet, our communities and future generations.
The Art Gallery @ Downtown Campus
Pima Downtown Campus, 1255 N. Stone Ave. Programs and exhibitions are always free to the public.
Many Truths – Student Art Exhibition
Sept. 19, 2025 - Aug. 30, 2026
Reception: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Friday, Oct. 3
Explore this annual student exhibition at the Art Gallery @ Downtown Campus. “Many Truths” presents a vibrant selection of paintings and drawings by Pima’s emerging art students. This showcase highlights their creative development and unique perspectives. Join us to celebrate their artistic journeys and support the next generation of talent.
Pima Theater
Night of the Living Dead
Oct. 16-26, Thu.-Sat., 7 p.m.; Fri. and Sat., 9 p.m. (18+); Sun., 2 p.m.; ASL Night, Oct. 24 “Night of the Living Dead,” adapted and directed by Chris Will, is an immersive, two-part theatrical experience that blurs the line between live performance and classic horror cinema. By seamlessly combining the immediacy of live theater with actual footage from the original 1968 film written by George A. Romero and John A. Russo, this production offers a chilling and unforgettable story. It serves both as a loving tribute to a horror masterpiece and a unique exploration of the film’s enduring themes of survival, human nature and the ultimate loss of control. Tickets: $15, $10 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Alice and the Curious Class – a Lesson In Wonder
Nov. 20-23, Thu. and Fri., 7 p.m.; Sat., 2 and 7 p.m.; Sun. 2 p.m.; ASL Night, Nov. 21 “Alice and the Curious Class – a Lesson In Wonder" tells the story of Alice, who is about to start high school and faces pressure to choose the right path. The guidance counselor talks in riddles while a wacky kid in a big hat rules the lunch room. And why does Principal Corazon keep shouting “Off with their heads”? With a little help from her older sister Chessie, Alice might be able to figure out how to survive high school, and even make some friends along the way. (Director TBD) Tickets: $10, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Urinetown
Feb. 26-March 8, Thu.-Sat., 7 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.; ASL Night. March 6 Set in a near-future dystopia of severe drought, “Urinetown” follows the story of Bobby Strong, a courageous young man who challenges the oppressive UrineGood Company. This corporation controls all public toilets and enforces high fees, creating a society where access to basic needs comes at a steep price. Through sharp satire and witty humor the musical explores themes of corporate greed, social injustice and rebellion. Directed by Maryann Green, this lively show will deliver a wild, comedic ride with memorable songs and a thought-provoking message. Tickets: $15, $10 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Fairview
April 23-May 3, Thu.-Sat., 7 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m.; ASL Night, May 1 Pima Community College Theater presents “Fairview,” the 2019 Pulitzer Prize-winning play by Jackie Sibblies Drury. This groundbreaking work starts as a seemingly familiar family dramedy before evolving into a provocative examination of race, privilege and the white gaze in both theater and society. Through unexpected shifts in perspective, “Fairview” challenges audiences to confront their own roles in systems of oppression and reconsider who controls the narrative. This thought-provoking production promises to spark important conversations and offers a powerful theatrical experience. (Director TBD) Tickets: $15, $10 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Pima Music
Music performances are held at Pima West Campus, Center for the Arts.
Michael Lich, Guitar Faculty Recital
Oct. 9, 7 p.m. Enjoy an engaging evening of classical guitar performed by Pima guitar faculty member Michael Lich. The program will showcase a diverse selection of pieces, featuring works by J.S. Bach, Claude Debussy and Sergio Assad. The performance also will include Lich’s arrangements of jazz compositions by Pat Metheny, Chick Corea and Vince Guaraldi. Audiences can expect a rich and varied musical experience highlighting Lich’s artistry and the versatility of the classical guitar. Tickets: $6, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Fall and Spring Music Showcase
Oct. 19, 2025 and March 29, 2026, 1-5 p.m.
Experience an afternoon immersed in the melody, harmony and rhythm of Pima’s diverse music ensembles. From the harmonious voices of Chorale & College Singers to the dynamic performances of our Concert Band, Symphonic Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, Guitar Ensemble, Mariachi and String Ensemble, performances will offer an array of creative and skillful performances to revel in. Free Admission
Piano Area Recitals
Nov. 15, 2025 and March 28, 2026, 3 p.m
The Piano Area Recitals provide the opportunity for you to enjoy captivating performances from a diverse lineup of Pima piano faculty, talented students and accomplished alumni. Free Admission
Percussion Ensemble
Dec. 1, 2025 and April 27, 2026, 7 p.m. Pima’s Percussion Ensemble, directed by Dr. Trevor Barroero,, will perform an exciting and diverse array of traditional and contemporary percussion ensemble repertoire, utilizing more than two dozen different instruments including marimbas, xylophones, vibraphones, snare drums, cymbals and hand drums. These performances are certain to be exhilarating for audience members of all ages and backgrounds. Tickets: $6, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
String Ensemble
Dec. 4, 2025, 7 p.m., and May 7, 2026, 6 p.m.
Under the direction of Fang Fang Li, our skilled students perform a concert of classic and popular music for string ensemble for your enjoyment. Free Admission
Jazz Band
Dec. 8, 2025, and May 4, 2026, 7 p.m.
Under the direction of Scott Black, the band plays jazz standards from a variety of periods in big band style. Tickets: $6, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Musical Theater Workshop
Dec. 9, 2025, and May 12, 2026, 4 p.m.
Under the direction of Dennis Tamblyn, students in the Musical Theater workshop will showcase excerpts and scenes from a diverse range of musical productions. Free Admission
Concert Band
Dec. 11, 2025, and May 7, 2026, 7 p.m.
Under the direction of Victor Valenzuela, the ensemble will perform classics for a full band. Tickets: $6, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Mariachi Ensemble
Dec. 12, 2025, and May 8, 2026, 7 p.m.
Mariachi Azteca de Pima College, led by director Salvador Gallegos, will perform mariachi standards along with modern compositions, including Mexican variations and styles of the Son, Ranchera, Huasteca and Bolero. Tickets: $6, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Orchestra
Dec. 13, 2025, and May 9, 2026, 3 p.m.
Under the direction of Dr. Anne Grimes, the Pima Symphonic Orchestra brings together many talented musicians to perform a mix of classical and modern pieces including famous orchestral standards, concerto movements, musical theater hits, movie themes and more. Tickets: $6, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Guitar Ensemble
Dec. 13, 2025, and May 9, 2026, 7 p.m.
Under the direction of Michael Lich, the ensemble, as well as soloists, perform a mix of classical and contemporary repertoire on classical guitars. Tickets: $6, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Chorale & College Singers
Dec. 14, 2025, and May 10, 2026, 3 p.m.
Immerse yourself in the enchanting melodies of the Chorale & College Singers, directed by Jonathan Ng, D.M.A. With a diverse repertoire, these performances feature a grand mixed-voice choir and an acapella ensemble. Tickets: $6, $5 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Guitar Orchestra Festival
April 11, 7 p.m. This event will feature a diverse lineup of talented guitarists from Pima’s Guitar Ensemble, the Tucson Guitar Society, TUSD, Glendale Community College, and Arizona State University. Prior to the concert (6:15pm) there will be an open-mic performance of soloists and small ensembles outside of the Proscenium Theatre. Celebrate the beauty and power of the guitar, where the sounds of different cultures and styles will unite for a mesmerizing performance. Free Admission
Pima Dance
Fall and Spring Dance Concerts
Dec. 5-6, 2025, and May 1-2, 2026, 7 p.m. Newly appointed dance lead Julie Andrews guides Pima Dance students in delivering captivating performances throughout the year. In both Fall and Spring concerts, the company showcases an impressive array of faculty- and student-choreographed pieces, embracing an eclectic mix of dance styles, such as contemporary, jazz, ballet, modern and hip-hop. Tickets: $10, $8 Students/Seniors/Military/Groups
Pima Digital Arts
The Digital Arts Awards
May 14, Expo and Reception, 6 p.m.; Awards, 7 p.m. The Digital Arts Awards brings the red-carpet excitement of an awards night to Pima Community College, honoring the year’s best student filmmakers and animators. The evening features the announcement of top honors and clips from winning films, motion graphics and animations. Before the ceremony, guests can explore a portfolio tabling event of graduating students, student work of our DAR Design and illustration student and even play testing student board games. Come join pima faculty, industry professionals and community members on hand to celebrate emerging talent. Free admission
Pima Fashion Design
Spring 2026 Fashion Runway Show
May 16, 7 p.m.; VIP Reception, 6 p.m. Led by new Fashion Department Head Jessica Peel Scott, this year’s Spring Fashion Runway Show highlights the creativity and innovation of Pima’s emerging designers. The evening will showcase stunning student collections alongside designs from accomplished alumni, all brought to life with the latest apparel technology. A special highlight of the night is the highly anticipated upcycling collaboration with Goodwill Industries, where fashion meets sustainability in bold and unexpected ways. Tickets: TBA
what: Pima Arts 2025-2026 Season
where: Center for the Arts, Pima West Campus, 2202 W. Anklam Road
when: August 2025 through May 2026
additional info: Tickets can be purchased online at pimaarts.com starting Sept. 9. Prices vary, see descriptions for details. If you have questions, call 520-206-6986 or email centerforthearts@pima.edu.
Contacts:
Carina Garcia, Marketing and Publicity Coordinator
Arts Division | Pima Community College
clisalda@pima.edu, 520-206-3062