Dear Vivi Magoo Metalsmiths,
Now that the dust has settled and you’re back in your studios, we hope you’re carrying a little piece of Tucson with you — a deeper connection to your work, new friendships (or newly strengthened ones), sun-warmed memories, and maybe a fresh way of seeing yourself as an artist.
We can’t thank you enough for joining us earlier this month. Watching you dive into your classes with curiosity, focus, generosity, and joy is the very reason THE DESERT exists.
The energy you brought to each classroom — the laughter, the quiet concentration, the problem-solving, the breakthroughs — made this year truly special. And the jewelry you created along the way? Thoughtful, skillful, and uniquely yours. We were so proud of every piece.
Beyond the benches and torches, what continues to move us most is the sense of community that forms so naturally when you all gather. Art sisters and brothers showing up for one another, sharing tools and tips, cheering each other on — this is the heart of Vivi Magoo, and you embody it beautifully.
We also want to take a moment to acknowledge a couple of unexpected roadblocks that arose this year.
Most notably, the delay in the arrival of Robyn’s pallet of tools and supplies created understandable stress for Robyn and frustration for her students. Please know that Robyn is already taking thoughtful steps to make this right and is offering several options moving forward. We fully support her in this process and are letting her take the lead, while standing ready to support whatever choices ultimately feel best for you.
In addition, due to severe weather in Nashville, our instructor Renee Ford was unable to attend THE DESERT 2026 this year. Downed power lines, extended power outages, and unsafe conditions left Renee essentially homebound for an extended period of time. While this was deeply disappointing for all involved, please know that Renee is guiding next steps for her students, and we are fully supporting her in the way that best serves you and your experience.
Thank you for your patience, grace, and understanding in both of these situations. One of the things we value most about this community is how generously you show up for one another — even when things don’t go exactly as planned. Moments like these remind us how much humanity and care live within this group.
We are deeply grateful to our instructors, sponsors, and partners who helped make this experience so rich, and to each of you for trusting us with your time, your energy, and your creative spirit. THE DESERT is shaped by the people who attend it, and you helped shape something truly meaningful this year.
For now, know how thankful we are for you — for your presence, your passion, and the way you show up for each other. Vivi Magoo is better because of you, and we so look forward to seeing you again at our next Vivi Magoo retreat.
Sending this with love and gratitude,
Barb
Barb@ViviMagoo.com
and
Erin
Erin@ViviMagoo.com
A special thank you to our partners and sponsors.
Please consider supporting them throughout the year.
