by Andrea Rodriguez
Oil Paintings
“Old Main – University of Arizona”
This original oil painting by Andrea Rodriguez captures the historic beauty of Old Main, the heart of the University of Arizona. Framed by lush desert landscaping and vibrant blooms, the iconic red-brick architecture stands proudly beneath the brilliant Arizona sky. With rich textures and meticulous details, this piece reflects the timeless spirit and heritage of the university, making it a stunning tribute for alumni, students, and admirers of Tucson’s history.
by Tony Ray Baker
Children’s Storybook
Xander Meets Javi available in The Tucson Gallery with 8 Waterproof Character Stickers
Deep in the heart of the Tucson desert, a tale unlike any other was born. It all began when Tony Ray, a storyteller with a passion for Tucson’s desert beauty, envisioned a book that could capture its magic and share it with the world. Inspired by his nephew, Xander, and his charming little stuffed javelina named Javi, Tony Ray set out to create a story of adventure, discovery, and friendship. The result? “Xander Meets Javi”, a book that has captured the hearts of readers young and old.
The story follows Xander, a curious boy with a big imagination, as he ventures into the desert. There, he meets Javi, a friendly javelina with an adventurous spirit. Together, they explore the wonders of the Arizona desert and meet an unforgettable cast of characters: Timmy the Tortoise, wise and steady; Gina the Gila Monster, bold and full of energy; and Holly the Harris’s Hawk, graceful and keen-eyed. Each new friend teaches Xander something special about the desert, its creatures, and the beauty of friendship.
But there’s more to this story than what’s in the book’s pages. Behind the scenes, Tony Ray poured his love for the desert into every word, carefully crafting a story that would inspire readers to see the magic of the natural world. To make the experience even more engaging, each book comes with a gift set of vibrant waterproof stickers featuring the four main characters—perfect for adding a touch of desert charm to notebooks, water bottles, or just about anything!
What truly makes “Xander Meets Javi” a treasure, though, is its ability to transport readers into the heart of the Tucson desert. From the golden sunsets to the towering saguaros, every page is a reminder of how special this part of the world is. And it’s not just a story for kids—parents, teachers, and desert lovers alike who have found themselves enchanted by Xander and Javi’s adventure.
So why should you visit The Tucson Gallery in Downtown Tucson to pick up your copy? Because it’s not just a book or souvenir, it’s a piece of Tucson, a celebration of the desert, and a heartfelt reminder of the beauty of connection, both with nature and with one another. Plus, by buying from The Tucson Gallery (a not-for-profit art gallery), you’re supporting local creativity. This book makes a lovely souvenir and a perfect gift for Tucson visitors, easily fitting into their luggage. Most importantly, it’s Javi approved. As Javi himself might say, “Life is an adventure, and every great adventure starts with a story.” Head to The Tucson Gallery today to grab your copy of “Xander Meets Javi” and take home the stickers of Javi, Timmy, Gina, and Holly. Bring a bit of desert magic into your life—Javi and Xander can’t wait to meet you! 🌵📚✨
