More than 30 years ago in reflecting of my love of our beautiful Southwest, I decided to begin a visual portrayal of scenes that I’ve been fascinated with my whole life.
This lead me to begin my artists journey. I am so fortunate to be involved in the ranching industry and live on a beautiful ranch NW of Prescott as well as a location here in Wickenburg, where we enjoy the winter here. I have such an opportunity for references and subject matter, right out my door.
I enjoy creating these scenes of our everyday life and hopefully give others a peek into our corner of the world. My place is in the West, and I am always inspired by my surroundings. I give thanks to our Creator who makes all things possible.
Hi! I am Pamela Kraft
I’m a painter known for capturing the distinctive light and vibrant colors of the American West.
After earning my BFA in Visual Arts from Michigan State University, I moved west to Wyoming, where the landscape and community inspired my signature style.
I married a rancher and taught art in rural Wyoming for over 30 years and was honored as Wyoming Art Educator of the Year, a Fulbright Scholar, and received the Milken National Educator and Robert Rauschenberg Foundation Power of Art Awards, among others. During that time, I raised my two daughters, who are now grown.
Now That I have retired from teaching, I focus on my art and split my time between a cattle ranch in Wyoming and a home in Congress, Arizona.
My works have been showcased at venues such as the University of Wyoming Art Museum, The Desert Caballeros Western Museum, the Wickenburg Art Center, Gallery 123 in Casper, WY, and Rock, Paper, Scissors Gallery in Cheyenne, WY. have received numerous Best of Show and People’s Choice Awards.
After a childhood of frustration with drawing that never seemed to match what I saw, my journey as a pastel artist began unexpectedly in my early 30s. It wasn’t until a friend persuaded me to take a $6 drawing class that everything changed. What started with simple shapes and shading evolved quickly into a newfound passion when I discovered I could create recognizable portraits.
With growing confidence in my abilities, I explored portraiture and animal studies, falling in love with the vibrant depth and texture of pastels.
Today, I create art that reflects not just technical skill but the joy of discovering a hidden talent and the power of seeing the world—people, animals, and all—in vivid color.
Being a native of Arizona, Gina has a passion for painting all subjects of the Wild West including colorful horses, rodeo scenes, desert landscapes, and desert animals. Gina’s paintings invite you in with their festival of swirling colors and slightly whimsical style.
Gina’s professional career started 37 years ago with a Tole and Decorative painting classes and from there continued to grow. She has been teaching, creating and painting ever since. After graduating from Northland Pioneer College with an Associate Degree in Fine Art, she moved with her family to Las Vegas, NV and designed painted clothing for the Tropicana Hotel, Hilton and many other shops in town.
Gina continued her education and obtained a Bachelor’s Degree and a Master’s degree in Fine Art.
Gina currently owns a shop/gallery in Wickenburg, Arizona where she displays her creations of paintings, painted furniture and 3D designs.
Growing up amidst the beautiful landscapes of rural New Mexico, I lived in the natural beauty and the rich vibrant culture of the southwest from an early age. The rugged desert vistas, breathtaking sunsets and the captivating stories of the past weren’t just my surroundings, they became an integral part of who I am today. This also is what inspires my oil paintings reflecting not just what I see, but how I feel about the region I hold so dear.
My art is deeply rooted in the southwest spirit, history, and landscapes of the Southwest. Whether it’s a solitary saguaro standing proudly against a dramatic sky, the quiet dignity of an old mission, or the story of miners and settlers carving out their lives in this rugged terrain, I strive to capture more than just the scene. I aim to evoke a sense of place and time creating something that feels alive and deeply resonates with the viewer.
Now living in Arizona, I am surrounded by stunning vistas and cultural richness that continue to fuel my creativity. My goal is simple: to keep telling stories of the Southwest through my paintings, preserving its beauty and heritage while sharing a piece of my journey with those who view my art. This is my passion. Every brushstroke feels like a tribute to the land and its history. It is a heartfelt thank you to the place that has given me so much.
My interest is oil on canvas and primary landscapes, rustic buildings, and domestic and wild animals.
I’m self-taught having spend considerable time with online tutorials. I live in Wickenburg and find tons of inspiration from the surrounding area.
I sign my name as Tavarozzi on honor of grandparents (Anything and Mary Tavarozzi) who Immigrated from Italy.
Thanks
Jim Tavary (Tavarozzi)
I was born in Oklahoma City, moved to Idaho as a child.
Found my way to Wickenburg, Arizona, twenty-one years ago — “snowbird.”
I’m self-taught with a mentor. Pat Hould, an abstract artist, guided me to my path of a figure painter.
I work in mixed media, collage with acrylic glazes. Influenced by southwest colors.
I’m represented at:
Manos Gallery in Tubac, Arizona
Rancho de los Caballeros Spa
Allender Studio
