Our Story

A Story of Hope, Art, and Connection
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 neighbors 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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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 artistic flair, strategic social skills, and lots of energy to the Love Where You Live team. She creates eye-catching campaigns, promotes programs, collaborates with artists, and oversees projects. She makes every volunteer feel valued. With her background in arts administration, event coordination, and social media expertise, she amplifies Love Where You Live’s community-focused mission. Her recent appointment by the governor to the Arizona Commission for the Arts is a boon to the state as she promotes art opportunities in rural communities. Additionally, her background as a busy soccer mom and female entrepreneur makes LWYL more effective in bringing about positive regional change.