This information is archived as reference for others who may aspire to similar development concepts, particularly in the Sky Islands region. We identify with the integrity and vision of the Fogo Island Art Studios,yet feel kindred to the community-driven frugality and simplicity of efforts such as the Rural Studio 20K Initiative. We particularly admire the Tucson works of architect Judith Chafee and architectural sculptor Charles Clement.
From 2017 to 2025, we aimed to develop a guest house and residency program centered on the junction of arts and sciences in the Chiracahua Mountains region. It had been our hope to efficiently provide modest amenities in spaces that take cues from surrounding nature, and create conditions for meaningful interaction with the natural world - an architectural intent sometimes described as biophilic. The scope of development would have been limited to creative workspaces, communal areas, two to three visitor studios, and private rooms for two to three residents. We hoped to utilize locally appropriate technology and sustainable building techniques. Having experienced the pace and hurdles of working within nonprofit status, we planned to manage the facilities as a simple co-proprietorship with transparent integrity, guided by principles of ethical stewardship.
From 2019 to 2025, we were privileged to aquire responsibility for six and a quarter acres of temperate high desert grassland-chaparral punctuated by juniper and agave, 4700’ up the eastern flanks of Portal Peak. We were humbled by the opportunity we had for fellowship with that land, working to remediate damage from decades of uncareful ranching. Circumstances surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic, negligent regional USAF proposals, and complications with family elder care ended our development aspirations; but we continue to learn from the Chiracahuas and advocate for their stewardship.
Chiricahua Apache communities were violently dispossessed of these lands by the United States military, less than 150 years ago. Apache Nations continue to fight for their sovereign rights in the greater region to this day; including the ongoing fight to preserve the birthplace of Apache religion, Chi’chil Bildagoteel, at Oak Flat in Arizona's Tonto National Forest, from obliteration by a copper mine for materials to propel AI.
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