Good news! It looks like Phoenix has decided to show off its kinder, gentler side while you’re here!

Barb Solem2026, General Information, News, STUDIO ELEVEN, VIVI MAGOO NEWSLETTER, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations, weather, weatjer, what to wear to class

When most people hear “Phoenix in August,” they imagine blistering desert heat. Well…we have some good news! The forecast for STUDIO ELEVEN is looking surprisingly pleasant for this time of year, with daytime temperatures expected to hover in the low one hundreds —several degrees cooler than our typical August weather. And here’s something many first-time Arizona visitors discover… It’s a … Read More

Class materials: How do I know what to bring?

Barb SolemArt Retreat in the Desert, News, supplies lists, THE DESERT 2026, VIVI MAGOO NEWSLETTER, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

#Q – I’m coming to The Desert and need a supply list that includes to what to bring. Thanks for your help. I’m really excited!  #A – Hi there – so great to hear from you! You can find class supply lists on our website as part of each class description. Just click on the class you’re registered for and … Read More

THE MARKETPLACE 2026 by Vivi Magoo

Barb Solem2026, Art Retreat in the Desert, Events, General Information, News, Shopping, Social Gatherings, THE DESERT 2026, Vivi Magoo Marketplace, VIVI MAGOO NEWSLETTER, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

Calling All Instructors & Students! We’d love for you to join in the fun THE MARKETPLACE by Vivi Magoo at THE DESERT 2026  There’s no fee to participate, whether you want to sell for one day, two days, or even all five days. Showcase your amazing creations, cabs, gemstones, or tools Connect with fellow artists Be part of the fun … Read More

Last chance to claim these seats—don’t wait!

Barb SolemArt Retreat in the Desert, classes, classes, News, Registration, THE DESERT 2026, VIVI MAGOO NEWSLETTER, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

THE DESERT 2026 Seats are disappearing! As of Jan 6, these classes are almost full—grab yours before they vanish! February 1, 2026 Anne Mitchell | Pop-Top Chain Bracelet Anne Mitchell | Roman Tab Chain Bracelet Chapin Dimond – Tube-tastic Hollow Hoop Earrings – only one seat left! Diane Cook | Scalloped Butterfly Hollow Form Necklace – only one seat left! Hoss Rogers … Read More

Pre-Order your supplies

Barb SolemArt Retreat in the Desert, Shopping, supplies lists, THE DESERT 2026, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

A lot of our students have told us they’d love an easy way to gather necessary tools and supplies for class, so we came up with something we think will make it simple for you. TOOLS SHEET METAL WIRE SOLDER CABOCHONS Mario and his crew from SJ Jewelry Supply in Phoenix will be joining us with an onsite shop at … Read More

Welcome to STUDIO ELEVEN! Your Creative Adventure Begins Here

Barb Solem2026, News, STUDIO ELEVEN, VIVI MAGOO NEWSLETTER, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

The excitement is building, and STUDIO ELEVEN is just around the corner! Our team is busy putting the finishing touches on every detail so your week with us is as enjoyable, inspiring, and stress-free as possible. Over the next several weeks, you’ll receive a series of emails filled with helpful information, tips, reminders, and answers to many of the questions … Read More

THE DESERT 2026

Barb SolemVivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

WELCOME! THE DESERT 2026 FEBRUARY 1st through 6th  TUCSON ARIZONA We’ve got some exciting news! THE DESERT 2026 connected hearts … handmade moments We’ve been busy planning our next retreat in Tucson, and thanks to your thoughtful feedback, we’re making a big change we think you’ll love. We’re thrilled to announce our new home in 2026 DoubleTree by Hilton Tucson … Read More

Off Property Dining Suggestions

Barb Solem2025, Art Retreat in the Desert, dining, General Information, The Desert 2025, things to do, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

Do you need help with dinner plans? If you if you would like to dine out, we have some recommendations for you. Westin La Paloma Restaurants In our humble opinion, you have to eat at least once at Contigo on La Paloma property. The restaurant is lovely, and the food is delicious. Spanish and Latin American fusion – the combination … Read More