Arizona Copper Art Museum

2023 SPECIAL CITATION AWARD

Arizona's Copper Art Museum originated from a simple spark.  In 1958, John and Patricia Meinke of Minnesota saw in an antique shop several copper molds that captivated them.  Later, Pat opened a small antique shop and kick-started today's massive collection displayed in the museum.

In 1978, their son, Drake, joined the business and started his collection. Over the years, both collections grew in size and prominence. A museum concept then evolved with a focus on connecting to an appropriate community with a foundation built around copper. 

A two-year survey was conducted to find the best location within the U.S.A. for a museum of copper art.  Arizona, nicknamed the Copper State, was easily chosen being the largest copper producer in the nation.  Clarkdale, a former company town built by "America's Copper King," Senator W. A. Clark, was chosen as the new home for the museum's collection of copper art and artifacts. The museum occupies the former historic Clarkdale High School building and is an official Arizona Centennial Legacy Project.  It opened as part of Arizona’s and Clarkdale’s mutual centennial celebrations of 2012.

The Arizona Copper Art Museum tells a genuine story that marries Arizona’s greatest treasure with world legends and fantastic art. The affinities and history of copper is also featured and is very fascinating, bringing forth forgotten stories, legends and mysteries. Exhibits and collections are divided into six categories: information, military art, architecture, kitchenware, drink ware, and distillery and winery.  A massive collection has been organized of over 6,500 works of copper art and architecture of Western European and Northern American emphasis, spanning from 3500 B.C. to present day.

The museum won the 2014 Arizona Governor’s Tourism Award. The museum has also rocketed to the top 1% of 4,500 attractions in Arizona. Clarkdale is 16 miles SW from Sedona; the museum is in the center of town on historic route 89A.

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