In this episode of Big Blend Radio's Tales of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia Podcast, long-time friend and "Tucson Dude" Lance Laber, Executive Director of DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, sits down for a "Getting to Know You" style chat. Reflecting on over two decades of collaboration, the conversation dives deep into the fascinating history of Ted DeGrazia, the gallery's most enduring legends, and a lighthearted Q&A with Lance himself.
Listen to the Podcast Episode:
The Real Story of Ted DeGrazia's Journey to Tucson
Born in the mining town of Morenci, DeGrazia later moved to Bisbee with his first wife, Alexandra Damus, where he managed the Lyric Theater. After putting himself through the University of Arizona — earning three degrees — he traveled to Mexico to study under legendary muralist Diego Rivera. DeGrazia faced criticism early on for commercializing his art through prints, reproductions, and merchandise; today, that approach is standard for world-renowned artists, and it's part of what cemented him as one of the most reproduced artists in history.
Ted DeGrazia’s tax burning protest in the Superstition Mountains in Arizona.
Myths, Legends, and the Superstition Mountains
Beyond his famous 1975 tax protest burning, local legend holds that DeGrazia hid a batch of original paintings in the Superstition Mountains. People still search for these lost works today, and Lance shares how DeGrazia masterfully blended his own story with the legend of the Lost Dutchman's Gold Mine. The gallery recently hosted a special event featuring a ceremonial bonfire to commemorate the 50th anniversary of DeGrazia's protest against IRS inheritance taxes.
Inside the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun Museum in Tucson, Arizona. Note the cholla cactus pathway…
7 Fun Questions with Lance Laber ("The Tucson Dude")
Get to know the man who has managed DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun since 2005 (and worked there since 1982!):
Spirit Animal: Buster, his cat.
Favorite Way to Unwind: College basketball, cheering for the Arizona Wildcats.
Life Lesson for Young Adults: Make as much money as early as you can so you don't have to work all your life.
Bucket List Experience: Seeing Bob Dylan in concert.
Personal Theme Song: "Jumping Jack Flash" by The Rolling Stones.
Food to Avoid at Dinner Parties: Beets and raw tomatoes — pass the lasagna instead!
Must-Have Item for the Media Room: A massive 60-inch TV to watch basketball games.
Entrance of DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun
Visit DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun
Nestled in the foothills of Tucson's Santa Catalina Mountains, this 10-acre National Historic Landmark includes the main gallery, chapel, and historic grounds. The gallery is open 362 days a year (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day, and Easter).
DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is a 10-acre National Historic Landmark featuring over 15,000 original works of art, including paintings, ceramics, sculptures, and more. Learn more: DeGrazia.org
🎙️ New Tales of Ted DeGrazia episodes air every 4th Sunday. Follow the podcast: Tales of Southwest Artist Ted DeGrazia