What’s there to do in and around Scottsdale?

Barb Solemdining, Dreamers and Doers, General Information, Shopping, things to do, Vivi Magoo LTD, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

We love our city and hope you will too! If you’re coming early or staying after our retreat ends, Scottsdale and the surrounding areas offer so many things to do for the newcomer. You’ll quickly become a fan of the area and want to return time and time again. Here’s our shortlist of things to do in and around Scottsdale … Read More

What is there to do in Round Top?

Barb Solem2018, 2018, Rebel Heartistry, Shopping, things to do, Vivi Magoo LTD, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

Round Top and the surrounding areas offer so many things to do for the newcomer. You’ll quickly become a fan of the area and want to return time and time again. Want to know more about Round Top? Click <here>. Things to do in the Round Top area – Click <here>. Restaurants in the area – Click <here> Shopping in … Read More

Need…Want….Such a Fine Line

Erin2017, Art Retreat in the Desert, Shopping

There are literally thousands of vendors who descend upon Tucson each winter, selling their beads, gemstones and anything jewelry-related. Each year we have helped students and instructors find their ways to the best shows in Tucson. We are going to continue our tradition and serve as concierge this year to help you find the best-suited vendors for you and your specific … Read More

Pack your portable light for class

Barb Solem2023, Art Retreat in the Desert, classes, News, shipping, Shopping, supplies lists, VIVI MAGOO NEWSLETTER, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

Remember to bring your portable lighting! Our venue is beautiful but not always light enough to see the fine details of our projects. Please remember to bring task lighting and an extension cord. Or, better yet, bring a rechargeable USB or battery-operated light. No cords to trip over! Here are some ideas for task  lighting     0 Comments Please … Read More

Question – Gem Show – Wholesale License

Barb Solem2017, Shopping

Question I have my business license for the state of Wa. W/ my UBI number is that good enough to get into the gem shows? Thank you,  K.O. Reply Yes, your WA state business license will work for all of the wholesale tents in Tucson. You can pre-register for many of them right now. JOGS, G&LW, To Bead True Blue, … Read More

Where to Shop in Tucson

Barb Solem2017, Art Retreat in the Desert, Shopping, The Desert - 2022

Question I am headed to Tucson for the show and had reached out to one of your instructors to ask if she had suggestions on where to go for mixed media/found objects/assemblage supplies.  She directed me to you and now I think I will need to sign up for some Art Retreat in the Desert classes while I am there!  I … Read More

Meet Ann Hammes

Barb SolemArt Retreat by the Beach, Shopping, Vivi Magoo Presents Art Retreats and Other Inspirations

DO YOU CREATE THINGS THAT YOU WOULD LIKE TO SHARE WITH OTHERS?

Do you know Ann Hammes? Many of you do! And, those of you who don’t will have a chance to meet her during our retreat; she’s a friend to students and shoppers alike. Ann has a beautiful store, Femmage, located in the Historic Arsenal in Benicia, California,  where she showcases original works from local artists, vintage furniture and gifts. Femmage … Read More