Fidel says, “I create visual excitement in my work by combining geometric imagery that is rooted in the mystical/occult teachings, with brush strokes that typify expressive abstract paintings.  The object of my work is to go beyond the realm of the singular to the realm of the universal; the range of dynamics that inhabits each person.  Some, that are peaceful and orderly and others that are more dynamic and aggressive.  I am an artist that is in love with the process of creating.”      

Fidel is known for her abstracts, oils, encaustic, endangered/exploited species, flight, mixed media, creation of the word triptych, and portrait of an artist series.  Fidel is engaged in an ongoing process of experimentation and exploration, to discover innovative ways to capture the viewer in a visual experience that is both “unique and timeless, immediate and transcendent,” she says.

Born in Sao Paulo, Brazil, Fidel began her art education in Brazil, later studying in the United States at many schools throughout Los Angeles, San Francisco, Phoenix and Scottsdale.  Fidel’s works have been displayed in exhibits including the Grossman Gallery Annual Show-Sao Paulo, Brazil; Affaire in the Garden -Beverly Hills, CA;  Artisimo-Scottsdale, AZ, and the Celebration of Fine Art-San Francisco, CA; among others. 

Her work has been awarded by the Holocaust Survivors’ Association in 1994, Arte Latino en la Ciudad V-The Phoenix Center for Community Arts in 1999, the National Anti Vivisection Society in 2007 and the Art Alliance in 2008.

 The Penn Glee Club is a choral group of men that has been around for 148 years, the original Glee club beginning as early as 1862. This group has performed all over the world wowing audiences in Colombia, Panama and Costa Rica, among others!

Fidel says, “In my Series I wish to convey light and color reflected through the water from the illumination of the sky and the richness of the plants, as seen underwater, swaying in motion.  The paintings have been divided into seasons, each color reflecting the all-absorbing warmth of summer, the coolness of winter, and the delicate warmth and richness of spring and fall.  This series calls for immersion in each painting, and the reward is the renewed discovery of shapes, forms and light.  I aim to convey the message that less can certainly be more.”

Fidel creates visual excitement in her paintings by combining geometric imagery that is root in mystical/occult teachings with brush strokes that typify expressive abstract painting.  Known for her abstracts, oils, encaustic, endangered/exploited species, flight, mixed media, creation of the word triptych, and portrait of an artist series, Fidel’s work showcases life journeys by creating an emotional pull from the tension between abstract shapes and geometric figures.  Fidel is engaged in an ongoing process of experimentation and exploration, to discover innovative ways to capture the viewer in a visual experience that is both “unique and timeless, immediate and transcendent,” she says.

Other works currently displayed by Fidel include “…And Then There Were None – Cheetah…”, expressing awareness to the viewer of the slow dicimation of the natural animal world and its effect on our own lives and environment, and “The World as Ground Zero”, expressing the shock and despair of terrorism worldwide. 

“I wanted the art itself to physically be the violence of terrorism, as much as the medium would allow.  Although it has no peace in it, the reality expressed through the art suggests the hope that man’s expression of true civilization and creativity will overcome evil,” says Fidel.

In addition, the festival will offer a tequila tasting by Semental Tequila and local chefs will compete for the title of “Best Salsa” in the Valley.  Visit www.elpedregal.com for more details!

Barbara’s Boutique hosts a “Get Ready for Spring” trunk show event on April 11 from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m., featuring the latest in handbags, sunglasses and clothing from Jan’s Collections.  Guests are invited to browse looks by designer labels including Clara S., S-Twelve, Scarlet Begonia, and more!  Door prizes and a $50 gift certificate to Barbara’s Boutique will be given away.  In addition, with the purchase of any Jan’s Collections merchandise, guests will receive a free gift.

Scottsdale Pantry hosts exclusive food sampling demos on Sundays from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. 

April 11 -  Desert Smoke
April 18 -  Renee’s Desert Rub
April 25 -  Portobello Foods, Eleanor Joseph Confections and Dos Cabezas Wines

Cookie Decorating Kits are $5.50 each.  Includes plain sugar cookies, decorative frostings and a chocolate bunny.  For more information please call The Bakery Cafe at 480.488.4100.

Proceeds will benefit The Rodger Hansen Liver Transplant, Desert Foothills Community Association, H.E.A.R.T. (Huachinera Art & Cultural Center), Carefree / Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce, Cave Creek Chamber of Commerce, Boy Scouts, Food Bank, Girl Scouts #1739, Bella Vista Fine Arts program, Desert Mountain Schools Fine Arts program, and Sonoran Trails Middle School’s Fine Arts Program charities and organizations.

In addition, a silent auction will be held with several original paintings, lithos and posters from Santé Fe artist, Pablo Antonio Milan; signed instruments from celebrities and musicians, and artwork from the Thunderbird artists. For further details about this event, visit www.elpedregal.com.

 The collection is comprised of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, stretch rings and many pieces embellished by Swarovski crystals.  Door prizes and a $50 gift certificate to Barbara’s Boutique will be given away.  In addition, with the purchase of any A’Dena Accents jewelry, guests will receive a free gift. Don’t miss the fun!