As the Executive Director of the DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun in Tucson, Arizona, Lance Laber is more than just a leader; he's a dedicated guardian and vibrant storyteller of Southwest art and history. A frequent Big Blend Radio guest and host of Big Blend Radio's d Podcast, Lance shares the colorful stories about famed Arizona artist Ettore ‘Ted’ DeGrazia, alongside updates on new exhibits and special events at the gallery. We even like to call him "The Tucson Dude."

Listen to the Big Blend Radio “Getting To Know You” Episode featuring Lance Laber:

The DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun, a 10-acre historic district nestled in the foothills of Tucson’s Santa Catalina Mountains, is a testament to Ted DeGrazia’s unique vision. DeGrazia achieved worldwide acclaim for his vibrant paintings of the Sonoran Desert's native cultures. Using traditional adobe bricks crafted on-site, DeGrazia built the gallery so his paintings “would feel good inside”. Opened in 1965, the gallery houses over 15,000 DeGrazia originals, including oil paintings, watercolors, ceramics, and sculptures. Visitors can explore six permanent collections on display and enjoy several rotating exhibitions each year. A limited number of DeGrazia originals are available for purchase, and the gift shop and online store offer a wide variety of popular DeGrazia reproductions.

The sprawling grounds also feature the tranquil Mission in the Sun, the artist’s original home, and his gravesite, as well as the Little Gallery, which hosts visiting artists during the winter months. The DeGrazia Gallery in the Sun is meticulously maintained by the DeGrazia Foundation, established by the artist before his passing to ensure the preservation of his beloved gallery and the permanent exhibitions of his work for generations to come. It proudly holds a listing on the National Register of Historic Places, preserving its legacy for all.