Curtis Dickman’s year as Paradise Valley artist in residence comes to a close

By Allison Kotzbauer
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Local artist Curtis Dickman was recognized by the Paradise Valley Town Council on Sept. 10 as his year as the town’s artist in residence comes to an end.

He was recognized by the council and staff for his vibrant pop art and town-inspired artwork that has been displayed throughout the year.

Dickman also donated two of his pieces to the town during the meeting and a third piece the weekend following the meeting. The council presented him with a plaque commemorating his service as the town’s 2025-26 artist in residence, featuring one of his artworks.

Mayor Mark Stanton said Dickman’s time as the artist in residence has been inspirational and a pleasure for the Town Council and staff to be surrounded by over the past year.

“This is a very special, bittersweet moment, because we're fortunate to have so many talented artists in our town,” Stanton said. “So many incredible artists, and they contribute so much to the culture of Paradise Valley.”

Council Member Karen Liepmann and liaison for the Paradise Valley Arts Board thanked Dickman for his contribution to the town. 

"I want to reiterate the wonderful artwork we have there,” she said. “I love the pop art colors and things like that.” 

Dickman said the chance to display his artwork in the town has been a great way to share his work with more people, and he is thankful the town afforded him the space to do so. 

“It has been a delightful experience and phenomenal exposure. I'm so appreciative to the town for the opportunity and the gifts,” Dickman said. 

This article has been updated to include  new information. 

Allison Kotzbauer can be reached at akotzbauer@iniusa.org. Please submit comments at yourvalley.net/letters or email them to AzOpinions@iniusa.org. We are committ

Allison Kotzbauer
Reporter | Paradise Valley

akotzbauer@iniusa.org

Community: I live in central Phoenix and my writing  focuses on Fountain Hills education, and the Paradise Valley and Scottsdale communities. 

Education: I graduated from Arizona State University in May 2026 with a bachelors degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. My studies focused on writing and visual story-telling.  

Random Fact: Growing up I had over 10 pets including 6 cats, 1 dog, 2 hermits crabs, and too many fish to count! 

Hobbies: I like to spend my free time hiking, crafting, cooking, reading, and spending time with friends and family.