Recently, Scottsdale Public Art raised the curtain on the theme of this year's event: "Showtime." The 2025 theme joins the festival's permanent focus on interactivity, sustainability and the union of water, art and light.
Jennifer Gill, deputy director and curator of Canal Convergence, said the event, which will be held from Nov. 7 to 16, is challenging artists this year to expand on the essential element of performance by highlighting its importance and purpose in society.
“From our music stage and site-specific dance performances to Walter Productions’ fire shows, choreographed live by the artists each night, the art of performance is an integral part of Canal Convergence’s identity,” she said in the announcement. “By blurring the line between audience and performer through interactive and performative public artworks, Canal Convergence seeks to inspire deeper understanding and appreciation of the performing arts and their impact.”
Canal Convergence features large-scale public artworks, created by artists from around the world, alongside live music and dance performances, creative workshops, educational tours and activities, food trucks and a beer and wine garden. The event is family-friendly, and the hours are 6 to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and 6 to 9 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays.
"Gaiascopes" by Mindbender Studio were popular subjects for photos at the 2024 Canal Convergence.
Paul Dietzenbach
Finalists from this year’s artwork selection include a broad range of public art and performance artists from all over the world. Local production company Walter Productions is set to return and bring its fan-favorite fire shows. Though the complete list of exhibiting artists will be announced later this summer, past Canal Convergence installations have included a giant octopus for kids to climb on, light-up swings, glowing dice in the canal, illuminated bridges and many more.
Additionally, in connection with the "Showtime" theme, Canal Convergence will seek to commission more dance, music and light performances than ever before.
In the coming months, Scottsdale Public Art will release more information about this year's Canal Convergence, including the winning artists and full schedule of activities. Visit the Canal Convergence website for more information.
