We believe in the power of one

Our Story

When the pandemic cast its shadow over Globe and the Copper Corridor, Thea Wilshire had a middle-of-the-night revelation: public art could be the antidote to growing hopelessness. Fueled by that “ah-ha” moment, she rallied community placemakers to inject joy and optimism into their everyday surroundings. Regina Ortega-Leonardi swiftly stepped in—starting as a volunteer, and soon partnering as a true co-leader. Together, they launched I Art Globe, aiming to complete 12 art projects in 12 months—but wound up bringing over 100 projects and several engaging events to life in the Globe-Miami region. The art projects didn’t just beautify spaces—they stirred the very soul of their community, giving people reasons to smile, explore, and feel connected. From murals to urban art on the Stairizona Trail, they turned livable spaces into lovable places with tangible, uplifting results.

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Our board

The Love Where You Live Board brings together a powerful mix of heart, experience, and real-world know-how. Carlos keeps things grounded with strong financial leadership and big-picture thinking rooted in healthcare and systems work. Kodee connects culture, community, and economic growth, making sure local voices and traditions stay front and center. Aileen brings top-tier hospitality and team-building skills, creating welcoming experiences and strong organizational culture. John adds deep knowledge of the land, history, and conservation, keeping the work connected to place and purpose. Together, they balance strategy, creativity, community, and care—making them the perfect team to turn everyday living into something truly lovable in Globe.

Aileen Bell

Kodee Goseyn

Carlos Quezada-Gomez

John Parsons

About Us

Thea Wilshire

Executive Director

An unstoppable force of good

Thea Wilshire leaves indelible, positive, hope-filled sparks wherever she goes! From writing books to helping people as a psychologist, from giving program advice as a consultant to educating others, from inspiring crowds as a speaker to leading her community, from creating public spaces to encouraging more dog-friendly places, This Executive Director is the ultimate multitasker on a mission to make the world a better place, one space at a time.

The creative mastermind

Regina Ortega-Leonardi brings creativity, heart, and nonstop energy to Love Where You Live. She’s a connector—promoting programs, teaming up with artists, and helping every volunteer feel like family. With her arts admin know-how, event mojo, and social media spark, she keeps our community mission shining bright. One of 15 Commissioners to the Governor appointed Arizona Commission for the Arts, Regina champions creative opportunities not only in rural Arizona but througout the state.