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 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.
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.
Regina Ortega-Leonardi
Creative Services Director
In The News
Stairizona Trail honored at ’25 Arizona Governor’s Tourism Conference
https://www.facebook.com/groups/258088903887839/posts/721858200844238/
https://discovergilacounty.com/stairizona-trail/#:~:text=GLOBE%2C%20AZ,for%20visitors%20and%20residents%20alike.
Duo behind I Art Globe create nonprofit Love Where You Live to expand positive vision
Wandering Through an Amazing Transformation in Globe, Arizona
Welcome to the Stairizona Trail
Best springtime day trip from Phoenix: This city pops with wildflowers and public art
Globetrotting: Springtime in Globe-Miami
An Arizona Town’s Once-Hidden Staircases Are Now Public Art
