Sedona's City Council meeting on January 14, 2025, kicked off the year with an exciting cultural highlight: the unveiling of a new art exhibit featuring the works of renowned landscape painter Carol Benali. The exhibit, showcasing 75 paintings, is displayed throughout the city manager and mayor's offices, offering residents and visitors a chance to appreciate the beauty of the Southwest through Benali's eyes.

Benali, who has lived in Arizona for nearly 40 years, draws inspiration from the land and sky, capturing the essence of her surroundings with a unique blend of color and texture. Her artistic journey began in Boston, where she studied the works of Renaissance masters and Impressionists before moving to New Mexico, where she became deeply influenced by Native American culture. Her connection to the land is evident in her paintings, which reflect her emotional bond with the environment.

During the meeting, Benali expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to showcase her work in such a beautiful space, likening it to a museum. She shared her artistic process, emphasizing the importance of experiencing the landscape firsthand to create authentic representations of its beauty. Benali also announced two upcoming events: an artist reception on February 6 and a painting demonstration on March 6, both aimed at engaging the community and sharing her passion for art.

In addition to the art exhibit, the council addressed routine consent items, which were unanimously approved without any items being pulled for further discussion. The meeting concluded with a summary of current events, setting a positive tone for the year ahead in Sedona. The community can look forward to more cultural events and opportunities to connect with local artists like Benali, enriching the vibrant tapestry of Sedona's artistic landscape.