It seems everyone has a  great story about Ed Mell.

The owners of many of the homes we see take great pride in having the artist’s work in their collections, and there is nearly always an anecdote, backstory or happy memory to go with each acquisition. 

The first time I saw one of Ed’s paintings, I was floored, and every piece I have seen since has been worthy of the respect so many around the world have for his vast body of work. In November 2023, I attended a gala at the Shemer Art Center (now celebrating its 40th year —see Page 62) honoring Ed, who could not be there for health reasons. Despite his absence, it was a beautiful evening with many funny tales told and memories shared.

For some time, I had wanted to purchase a signed lithograph (his original paintings are a bit beyond my reach). Not long after the gala, I visited Ed’s Phoenix studio and gallery, where I was welcomed by director Ken Richardson and manager Victoria Klotz. For almost three hours, they shared their own stories and generously showed me around the studio. I was so moved by the experience that I knew I wanted to share it with you, our readers, at some point. Ken and I strolled down the block to visit the gallery. When we returned, Ed’s car was in the driveway. 

John Roark
Editor-in-chief

Inside the studio, I could hear him conversing in another room, and I felt acutely self-conscious, feeling the need to be respectful, quiet and, above all, out of the way. Victoria encouraged me to say hello. Although he had a lot going on, Ed and I sat and chatted for about half an hour. He even had someone bring out the June 2017 issue of Phoenix Home & Garden (he knew precisely where it was located) featuring his home. He was genuinely warm, friendly and inquisitive, asking questions about the magazine and my background. “As much as his whole world needed from him, he always had time for people,” Ken said in our interview for the story you’ll find on Page 67. “Ed was always wanting to see the world through different eyes and perspectives.” 

Ed Mell passed away on Feb. 21, 2024, at the age of 81. This publication named him a Master of the Southwest in 1997, and he personified everything the honor is about. The day I met and talked with him is one of the highlights of my career. In the upcoming pages, we take you inside the studio where he created so many important works and introduce you to the people who worked with him closely. We encourage you to share your own stories and memories of Ed at editor@phgmag.com.