The Smithsonian of Street Art

Located in a beautifully renovated historic building, the Artemizia Foundation is one of Bisbee’s most unexpected gems. It’s not just a local art shop—it’s a massive, museum-quality gallery that houses a multi-million dollar collection of contemporary art, including works by world-famous artists like Banksy, Ai Weiwei, and Jeff Koons.

Over 800 works of contemporary art are on display, spread across two floors. It feels more like a modern art museum in NYC or London than a small-town gallery.

You’ll see original pieces from some of the most influential names in the art world (Damien Hirst, Shepard Fairey, and Tracey Emin, just to name a few).

Behind the building is an outdoor garden space filled with large-scale sculptures and rotating installations.

Founded in 2019 by collector and director Sloane Bouchever, the museum has transformed the town into a major cultural arts destination, often compared to Marfa, Texas. 

True to its name—inspired by 17th-century artist Artemisia Gentileschi—the museum prioritizes living artists, with a strong emphasis on female creatives who are often underrepresented in the global art scene.

A permanent exhibit features Bouchever’s extensive collection of Beatles memorabilia, including a Revolver album cover signed by all four members and rare 1960s film posters. 

The museum is designed to be an active, evolving experience rather than a static viewing gallery.

Launched in late 2025, the vibrant south-side outdoor space Art Patio features a massive mural by Tucson-based artist Jessica Gonzales and a monumental bronze sculpture by John Tuomisto-Bell.

The Artemizia Foundation actively supports the local Bisbee scene through acquisitions, grants, and scholarships. In early 2025, it established a permanent Art Scholarship endowment with Cochise College to support fine and digital arts students.

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Know Before You Go:

• Hours: They generally keep a “weekend-heavy” schedule, usually open Friday through Sunday, 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM. It’s always a good idea to check their website or Instagram before heading over, as they sometimes close for private events or new installations.
• Location: 818 Tombstone Canyon, Bisbee, AZ 85603
• Admission: There is usually a small admission fee (around $10) which helps support the foundation’s educational programs and the upkeep of the massive collection.
• The Experience: This isn’t a “quick walk-through” spot. Give yourself at least an hour to really see everything. The staff is incredibly knowledgeable and can tell you the backstory behind the major pieces.
• Photography: They are generally okay with non-flash photography, but always ask at the front desk first as some specific loans might have restrictions.
• Pro Tip: If you’re an art lover, this is arguably the #1 thing to do in Bisbee. It’s a complete “vibe shift” from the vintage shops and dives nearby.
• Website: artemiziafoundation.org

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