Tohono Chul Announces Two Events Celebrating New Mural by Ignacio Garcia

A partnership between Tohono Chul and the Town of Oro Valley is resulting in a new mural installation by artist Ignacio Garcia at the park’s Garden Pavilion. In celebration, Tohono Chul is hosting two public events this February. The first takes place on Saturday, Feb. 14, 2026 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. and serves as the official grand reveal of the “Twilight Sonoran” mural at the Pavilion. The second, on Saturday, Feb. 28 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., will serve as a public unveiling and community day.

The installation of “Twilight Sonoran” was supported in part by a financial contribution from the Town of Oro Valley. The partnership between the town and the park reflects a shared commitment to expanding public art in the community, supporting local artists and boosting tourism through creative placemaking.

“We are grateful for the Town of Oro Valley’s generous contribution to this initiative to bring new life, energy and artistry to our Garden Pavilion,” said Jamie Maslyn Larson, president and CEO of Tohono Chul. “Together with the town, we believe this mural will further position Tohono Chul as a destination that reflects the beauty and spirit of the Sonoran Desert.”

Garcia’s artistic vision for the installation is a digital concept mural that captures the breathtaking magic of the Sonoran Desert after dark — through the eyes of its creatures. The mural invites viewers to step into an animal’s perspective of the desert night, where late-summer monsoons roll across the horizon, stars shimmer in silence and life glows softly beneath a moonlit sky.

Designed to transform the Pavilion wall into a serene and immersive experience, this mural will serve as a memorable backdrop for events, dining and photography. Its goal is to reflect the spirit of Tohono Chul — where art, nature and community meet under the same desert sky.

Event details are as follows:

“I Heart Art — Love At First Sight” Mural Reveal Event

Saturday, Feb. 14 | 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Cost: $60 for members; $75 for non-members

This Valentine’s Day, guests are invited to experience “I Heart Art — Love At First Sight,” an art opening reimagined as an evening of enchantment at Tohono Chul. Be among the first to view “Twilight Sonoran,” the new mural by acclaimed Tucson artist Ignacio Garcia, meet the artist and enjoy a complimentary welcome drink, live music, creative activities and cozy fireside moments. With hors d’oeuvres and desserts, local vendors, a photobooth, stargazing, dance lessons and a cash bar, this immersive evening is perfect for date night, gathering of friends or a memorable solo outing.

I Heart Art Public Day Event

Saturday, Feb. 28 | 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Cost: Free for members and children four and under; $5 for non-members

The official public unveiling event will feature artist and curator talks, paint and sip classes, an art sale in the garden and much more.

For more about Tohono Chul, visit https://tohonochul.org/.

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