Canal Convergence presents “The Power of Play”

Nov 3rd – Nov 12th

Scottsdale Arts’ Canal Convergence will explore the power and influence that play has in our lives through engaging public art, performances and programming from Nov. 3–12, 2023, at the Scottsdale Waterfront.

The free, 10-night event features large-scale public artworks created by artists from around the world alongside live music and dance performances, creative workshops, educational tours and activities, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. In addition to the event’s perennial focus on the union of water, art, and light, interactivity and sustainability, this year’s featured theme is “The Power of Play.”

With interactivity being one of the enduring themes of the event, acts of play have always had a significant role in Canal Convergence. For 2023’s event, the director challenged artists to propose engaging and immersive public artworks that speak to play and acts of play’s importance in people’s lives. By harnessing the power of play through public art, artists have the opportunity to inspire and create meaningful experiences that reveal play’s true power.

Canal Convergence will also continue its sustainability work with its third year partnering with the city of Scottsdale’s water department, Scottsdale Water, to host the One Water Brewing Showcase during the first weekend of the event. The event will also branch out in the community through a partnership with the Women's Collective for the Night Run; a 5K race along the Arizona Canal on Saturday, Nov. 4.

Rendering: Iregular