Ruth Price is the founder of Desert Design Week, a semi-annual, 10-day celebration of creativity centered around design, art, and architecture. The first installment of the series was held in October 2024, and the second is set to take place from April 3 to April 12 in Scottsdale. “This inaugural edition of Desert Design Week brought together artists, designers, and the public for a series of highly curated events across diverse venues. Highlights included artist receptions, pop-up art galleries, designer markets, architectural home tours, and art-centric garden parties.” Learn about Ruth Price…
Follow at: @desertdesignweek
Hometown: Bend, OR.
First job: Orange Julius.
Favorite ways to spend your free time in AZ: I’m extremely fortunate to enjoy Arizona as a part of my daily work life, not just when I have free time. I get to explore beautiful homes, galleries, and studios of artists and artisans in my quest to showcase the best of design in our state. I also love to enjoy time in nature, soaking up the beauty of the desert.
Your biggest accomplishment and why: I’ve had a lifelong love of art and architecture, leading to a real estate career. Since moving to Arizona, I’ve known I wanted to help foster a community of like-minded individuals who share an appreciation for design. I started with a small event held at Cave + Post Trading Co., highlighting art designed exclusively for the event by Carlisle Burch. I then partnered with designer Meredith Smyth, founder of Smyth House Design, to host Smyth House Bazaar, a pop-up event featuring a shoppable selection of art and furniture. The response to these two events was overwhelmingly positive, with big turnouts, and I knew I was onto something. In October 2024, after months of planning, I launched Desert Design Week. In total, we have hosted eight events and over 800 attendees.
The biggest obstacle you overcame: Proving there is a demand for an event series like Desert Design Week. As anyone blazing a new path and trying something new will tell you, a big leap of faith is involved. Will people show up? Will they enjoy the experiences? Is all this time and effort worth it? Fortunately, I have gotten to experience some magical moments where people have come together to enjoy intimate events, pop-up galleries, art tours, and more.
Someone who inspires you and why: I’m inspired by many artists and entrepreneurs I have worked with, but one who stands out is Cammie Beckert, founder of Cameron Custom Homes & Renovations. Cammie leads one of Arizona’s top custom home companies and has built a strong company culture by respecting and recognizing the talent of each of her team members, captaining her company with quiet confidence, and leading teams of creatives as they work together to craft incredible custom homes for their clients.
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: I’m not sure this is a career path anyone else would follow because what I’m doing is a little off the beaten track. I’d say if you have an idea that doesn’t fit the mold and hasn’t been done before, don’t let that stop you. When you are passionate about something and have a vision, you can enlist the support and partnership of others who share that passion. Take a chance and build your dream career path one step at a time.
Favorite quote: “When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be.” – Lao Tzu
Something someone would be surprised to learn about you: I can’t stand the heat! When the temperatures hit 110, you will probably find me escaping to the cool greenery of the Pacific Northwest.
What makes someone fabulous: Don’t try to do what others do. Follow your interests and passions. Not only will it make you fabulous, but it will help you lead a fabulous life.