Customer Reviews

Phoenix: 21st Century City

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I haven't yet read PHX. But based on how I've seen it marketed in the local media, it seems that part of the point of the book is to show readers an alternative to what most people think of when they picture Phoenix "art"; i.e., the point is to get AWAY from stunning cactus-covered landscapes and kokopelli kitsch.

In an East Valley Tribune (11/05/06) article, Chris Page writes, "The Maricopa Partnership for Arts and Culture, an arts advocacy group, says it's hoping the book will show the cooler side of the Valley's creative types--and in the process improve the perception of metropolitan Phoenix beyond its snowbird stereotypes."

Page also points out some initial criticism of the book, coming from those who were given advance copies. The biggest complaint he cites is the scarcity of context provided for the art and architecture that `PHX' portrays.

"Phoenix: 21st Century City" is an effort to strengthen the region's image by "communicating the creative energy and vitality within the Greater Phoenix area." In reality it is an eclectic collection of various art works and clothing from the Phoenix area, interspersed with aerial photos (eg. parking lots, canal and road networks, a gravel pit, homes - some of which are interesting), and some interesting and weird photos of local architecture.

The bad news is that "Phoenix: 21st Century" misses most of the Phoenix area attractiveness - both man-made (eg. Frank Lloyd Wright designs, Sandra Day O'Connor Courthouse, Phoenix City Hall, Desert Botanical Gardens) and natural (Camelback Mountain, Papago Park).