art one foundation forges new creative partnership
by cliff summerhill
When b-art gallery opened its doors in Phoenix, owner Andy Byrnes envisioned more than a traditional space. He wanted to create a welcoming environment where art felt approachable, conversations came naturally, and artists could thrive. Today, through a meaningful partnership with the Art One Foundation, that vision is helping preserve a legacy while creating new opportunities for artists across the Valley.
“As both a collector and an artist, opening the gallery felt like a natural extension of our work and my belief that art should be approachable,” Byrnes said. “I want b-art to be a space where high-quality artwork and accessibility coexist.”
That philosophy made b-art a natural home for artists connected to the former Art One Gallery, which closed after serving the community for more than three decades. When the gallery shut its doors, many artists lost not only a place to show their work but also a sense of belonging. Byrnes saw an opportunity to help sustain that momentum.
“When Art One closed, it left a noticeable gap in the community,” Byrnes said. “Partnering with Max and Rebecca, who knew of them so well, allowed us to give many artists a new home and space to grow at b-art.”
For Max Smith, gallery manager and leader of the Art One Foundation, the partnership represents continuity and hope.
“Being featured at b-art has helped reestablish opportunity,” Smith said. “In many ways, b-art represents the next step Art One always encouraged its artists to take.”
The gallery itself is designed to foster connection. Visitors can check out upcoming exhibitions and find opportunities to meet artists in an atmosphere that invites people to engage.
“b-art is intentionally designed as a place for conversation, discovery, and connection,” Byrnes said.
Beyond exhibitions, b-art gives back to Phoenix’s artist community. A percentage of all sales is donated to the Art One Foundation.
“After the gallery closed, the foundation lost a physical space to connect directly to the community,” Smith said. “b-art has helped restore that connection, allowing us to continue funding programs that support student artists in meaningful ways.”
In December, the Art One Foundation awarded $3,500 in grants to Maryvale High School’s visual arts department, One Step Beyond, Inc., and Autism Academy of Phoenix.
“This support would not be possible without community partnerships,” Smith said.
“Phoenix is a city shaped by creativity through art, architecture, design, and construction,” Byrnes said. “Offering a place where designers and collectors can source high-quality artwork is essential to the cultural growth of the city, and it’s something we’re proud to be a part of.”
Byrnes sees b-art as a space that will continue to evolve, hosting exhibitions, workshops, fundraisers, and intimate events. The gallery will also debut a solo exhibition by Arizona artist Loren Yagoda on February 6.