It is year four of the Artist + Researcher Exhibition (ARx) which means a whole new cohort to introduce! ARx4 has 9 teams of one artist and one researcher who began collaborating in December of 2024. The end goal is to create a piece of art that represents research. The nine pieces from the ARx4 cohort will come together for a grand opening event where all teams will speak about their experience as well as how/why they created their piece.
Save the date: ARx4 Live, November 7, 2025 at the Arizona Science Center
As the teams collaborate, we wanted to take you behind the scenes to properly introduce this talented group of artists and researchers. The ARx4 cohort spans a wide array of disciplines, from visual arts and performance to health and technology, each contributing to the cultural and intellectual fabric of our community.
Let’s take a closer look at their incredible journeys and the work they’re passionate about:
Team 1: Patricia Sannit and Christopher Wharton
Patricia Sannit is a multi-media sculptor whose art bridges the worlds of archaeology, migration, and nature. With an MFA from California College of the Arts and a BA in Art History, Norwegian, and Fine Art from the University of Minnesota, Patricia’s work draws from her time on archaeological sites in the Near East and Ethiopia. She has exhibited globally and is deeply committed to fostering connections between artists and their communities.
Christopher Wharton is a professor of nutrition whose research focuses on reducing food waste and promoting plant-forward diets. He collaborates with local organizations to study the impacts of food waste reduction on health, the environment, and household economics. His work is an invaluable contribution to improving both individual and community well-being.
Team 2: Kendra Sollars and Brittany Krzyzanowski
Kendra Sollars brings a fascinating blend of movement, performance, and video-based installation art. With a background as a synchronized swimmer and Cirque du Soleil artist, her work explores human connections to nature, particularly water. Kendra has showcased her pieces at prominent Arizona institutions and is recognized for her collaborative spirit and bold interdisciplinary approach.
Brittany Krzyzanowski is a researcher at Barrow Neurological Institute, where she investigates environmental impacts on neurodegenerative diseases. With a PhD in Geography and Environment, Brittany combines her expertise in human health and environmental science to advance public health research and promote transparency in complex geospatial techniques.
Team 3: Chris Ignacio and Manisha Thakkar
Chris Ignacio is an interdisciplinary artist and educator, specializing in puppetry and digital media. A faculty associate at Arizona State University, Chris has performed at the Metropolitan Opera and premiered works in New York’s most celebrated venues. His work has earned recognition as a New York Times Critic’s Pick, and he continues to innovate in the fields of puppetry and animation.
Dr. Manisha Thakkar is a pediatrician dedicated to providing compassionate care to her young patients. With over 26 years of experience, she is committed to educating families and ensuring long-term wellness. In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Thakkar serves as an Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Arizona, training future doctors in child health.
Team 4: Kris Manzanares and Oaklee Rogers
Kris Manzanares is an artist who uses oil painting and personal iconography to explore the complexities of modern family life, self-definition, and cultural limitations. Their work reflects their journey as a mother and artist, seeking to inspire positive change within themself, their family, and their community.
Dr. Oaklee Rogers is the Associate Dean for the College of Health and Human Services at Northern Arizona University. With a background in occupational therapy, Dr. Rogers is passionate about promoting occupational justice and helping individuals with substance use disorders reintegrate into the community. She is dedicated to improving the well-being of vulnerable populations.
Team 5: Marshall Shore and Jean Robey
Marshall Shore, Arizona’s Hip Historian, unearths fascinating, often forgotten aspects of Arizona’s past through storytelling and creative media. From film footage and photographs to projections and puppetry, Marshall brings history to life in engaging, educational ways. His work not only educates but inspires a deep appreciation for the rich, often overlooked narratives of the state.
Jean Robey, MD, a nephrology specialist, combines her medical expertise with a passion for narrative medicine. Through storytelling and poetry, Jean aims to improve the education of future physicians, emphasizing the importance of empathy and communication in healthcare.
Team 6: Cyd Peroni and Tim Lant
Cyd Peroni brings a keen eye for detail and a profound sense of connection to nature in her photography. Guided by her mother’s influence, Cyd’s work reflects on life’s complexities and the emotions tied to the natural world. Through her handmade processes, she creates photographs that are both beautiful and meaningful, offering viewers a chance to connect deeply with the images she presents.
Timothy Lant is a leader in program development at Arizona State University’s Knowledge Enterprise. With more than two decades of experience in public health, data science, and policy analysis, Timothy’s work focuses on creating data-driven models to assess the impacts of healthcare treatments and public health interventions.
Team 7: Chana Schlossmacher and Candice Wike
Chana Schlossmacher creates powerful oil paintings that delve into the complexities of modern family dynamics. Through personal iconography and the human form, she explores the tensions of self-definition, particularly the challenges of being a mother and an artist. Her work seeks to understand and address cultural limitations while fostering positive change.
Candice Wike, Ph.D., works at TGen as the Associate Director for the Scientific Technology Assessment Research Team (START). Candice plays a pivotal role in evaluating emerging technologies to improve patient health outcomes. Her work in cancer research is particularly notable, where she collaborates with industry partners to create impactful pilot projects.
Team 8: Candice Diaz and Paul Bendhelm MD
Candice Diaz is an artist and educator whose work spans drawing, painting, and marbling. A signature member of multiple arts organizations, Candice has exhibited her watercolor works in prestigious juried shows across Arizona. She is passionate about educating others in her craft, teaching workshops and inspiring the next generation of artists.
Dr. Paul Bendheim, the founder of BrainSavers, has spent his career studying brain health, particularly the prevention of Alzheimer’s disease. His work at BrainSavers promotes a holistic approach to maintaining cognitive health through lifestyle changes that enhance both physical and mental well-being.
Team 9: Beth Eckel and Aaron McGee
Beth Eckel is a talented artist with a specialization in anatomically accurate fine art. After studying classical realism in Spain, she returned to her roots in Arizona, where she creates breathtaking pieces that explore the human form and emotions. Her work has been exhibited internationally and continues to inspire viewers with its technical precision and emotional depth.
Dr. McGee is a researcher at University of Arizona focused on how early brain development can be disrupted and how to reverse those effects later in life. His work aims to enhance brain plasticity and therapeutic outcomes, particularly for childhood neurological disorders like amblyopia and retinitis pigmentosa.
This dynamic group of individuals represents a vast array of expertise, creativity, and dedication to their craft. Whether through innovative art, groundbreaking research, or improving public health, they are all making lasting impacts in their respective fields.
Stay tuned to see how each team collaborates on a work of art for ARx4!
Save the date: ARx4 Live, November 7, 2025 at the Arizona Science Center