As a board-certified plastic surgeon-led med spa in Reno, M Spa is fully equipped to achieve your goals with convenient, in-office treatments. Dr. Tiffany McCormack and Dr. Nichole Joslyn — our on-site Medical Directors — are honored to have been voted “Best Plastic Surgeon” for two years in a row at the Reno-Gazette Journal’s Best of Reno Awards, as well as “Best Plastic Surgeon” in Northern Nevada by Reno News & Review. Our core team of providers offers cutting-edge aesthetic services, including:
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It's All About Reno
Local
[loh-kuhl]/ 'loυ kəl / Adjective
Belonging or relating to a particular area or neighborhood, typically exclusively so.
In 2023, when I started this publication, my first order of business was to find a great Managing Editor. I had done many jobs before starting the magazine, but the word “Editor” was conspicuously absent from my CV. Soon thereafter, I was introduced to Nora Tarte, and the rest was history.
At our first meeting, well before we went to press on our first issue, Nora and I talked a lot about our respective visions for a Reno-focused local lifestyle magazine. While we had a few very small differences, the one thing we agreed on unequivocally was that the magazine needed to be hyperlocal and focused on bringing the best of people, places, things, events, arts, and culture that Reno has to offer, and we had to do our best to delight our readers every month. Needless to say, I was blown away by our shared values (and Nora’s six-month content plan!), and immediately knew I had my partner.
Fast forward two and a half years, and Nora and I couldn’t be more proud of what we’ve created and how we’ve consistently delivered on the promise we made to each other of producing great stories on the best of Reno’s new and known.
And the best part is that we feel like we’re just starting to scratch the surface.
1: Heather Neal (and her husband) attended Stereophonic at the Pioneer Center. 2: The Sierra Nevada Journeys team gathered on Dec. 8 to celebrate big news. 3: The 5th annual Urban Roots' Handmade Holiday Faire took place Dec. 7. 4: CLR hosted its annual holiday party at Blackrock Wine Co. Dec. 3. 5: Jeremy Renner visited Virginia City for a Christmas on the Comstock celebration Dec. 13. 6: Proceeds from Atlantis' Winter Wonderland event Dec. 11 went to the Nevada Diabetes Association. 7: Deb McCarthy and Joe Dutra traveled to Washington D.C. with Nevada's Christmas tree.
Want to be seen in the magazine?
HEATHER NEAL
SEAN HILL
ZAK SHELLHAMMER
NORTHERN NEVADA'S HOLLYWOOD
STORIES TAKING SHAPE IN OUR BACKYARD
Northern Nevada’s film scene is buzzing in a way that is hard to ignore. What once felt like small pockets of independent creators has evolved into a connected community. In recent years, events like the Cordillera International Film Festival (CIFF) have helped bring filmmakers together by offering workshops, screenings, and networking opportunities that continue to strengthen the regional film culture. Most importantly, filmmakers are not just visiting. They are choosing to tell their stories here.
With several new projects premiering this month and others on the way, the region is stepping into a new creative chapter and locals are getting a front-row seat with plenty to look forward to, both on the big screen and behind the scenes.
ARTICLE BY LIZA BELKA
WHEN COMMUNITY CREATES
One project locals will be hearing more about is “An Anniversary,” a psychological drama built almost entirely by Reno-area filmmakers. Executive producer Sandra Dorst shared that more than 90 percent of the filmmaking team lives here. While this is uncommon in feature filmmaking, it’s a point of pride for the group, which has since formed the new production company Taloha Entertainment.
While the film’s story is set primarily around a lakeside getaway in Graeagle, California, several of the film’s key scenes unfold in Reno and Carson City. And these choices were not just logistical. They were made to support the tone of a story that slowly unravels into something deeply unsettling. Writer and director Stephen George describes it as “a nightmare family vacation where the horror lies in the consequences of an ambivalent family dynamic."
Locals have played a major role in shaping the production. Dorst says Reno crews bring high-level talent and deep familiarity with the region. This strengthens and streamlines each step of the process. Property owners have also offered access to locations
that feel authentic on screen. “Projects like ‘An Anniversary’ could not exist without the people of Reno who continue to support and invest in its creative ecosystem,” she says.
The cast and creative team also reflect the project’s growing scope. Television veterans Arianne Zucker and Shawn Christian joined as co-producers. Academy Award winner Philip Bladh of “Sound of Metal” came onboard after a chance encounter at another Reno-based shoot. With fundraising underway, the team aims to move into full production soon.
A STORY YEARS IN THE MAKING
Incredible things can happen when a hometown dream finally gets its moment. Actor and director Kristoffer Polaha has long imagined making a film in Reno. Ever since he watched “Pulp Fiction”in Sparks in 1994, he knew he wanted to create independent films outside the studio system. “Reno was always the only place we were going to make this film,” he says.
Co-producer Marc Oakley adds to the nostalgia, sharing that he and Polaha first met in the first grade at Anderson Elementary School. Their decades-long friendship is “woven into the film’s DNA,” making its release especially meaningful.
Set and filmed entirely in Reno, “Mimics” turns the city itself into a supporting character. If you spotted film crews downtown last spring, you may have seen them at work, especially near the Pioneer Center, Shim’s Tavern, or along the Truckee River. Polaha even filmed a moment at his grandmother’s gravesite, which he describes as one of the most personal touches in the movie.
The story follows a struggling performer who accepts an offer he cannot refuse, setting off a chain of consequences. Oakley notes that Reno’s mix of “grit and entertainment culture” naturally fits the tone of the film.
Beyond the narrative, the production has already made a significant local impact. It has contributed more than one million dollars to the regional economy and employed many Reno-based
"Mimics" movie poster
Behind the scenes of "An Anniversary,"
Photo By Melody Ricketts
actors and crew members. Polaha describes the local talent as “incredible” and says their work holds up against crews he has collaborated with around the world. He also credits Emily SkyleGolden for helping connect key resources.
“Mimics” premieres this month at the Pioneer Center on February 11, followed by a nationwide release on February 13. Locals will be among the first to see a film imagined, built, and filmed here.
NEVADA ADVENTURES, CAPTURED ON FILM
Northern Nevada is also stepping into the national spotlight with a new travel series starring world-renowned climber Alex Honnold. His upcoming show, “Get a Little Out There With Alex Honnold,” was filmed entirely in Nevada and premieres this year on the Outside Network.
Instead of extreme climbs, viewers will see Honnold exploring the state in his van, stargazing in Great Basin National Park,
mining turquoise in central Nevada, and popping into some of the quirky roadside attractions that give the Silver State its charm. Towns like Baker, Elko, and Ely take the stage, showcasing landscapes and stories viewers do not often see.
Travel Nevada notes that projects like this help broaden the public’s understanding of the state. Rather than focusing on the most famous cities, the series highlights the state’s diversity and lesser-known communities, making a strong case for why Nevada works so well for adventure and lifestyle filmmakers.
CARSON CITY’S CHARM ON CAMERA
Just south of Reno, Carson City has quietly become a go-to destination for holiday romances and made-for-TV movies. Its tree-lined downtown, Victorian architecture, and small-town feel have drawn productions like “Feliz NaviDAD,” “Once Upon a Main Street,” and “A Winter’s Charm in Carson City”; all projects that lean into the city’s natural warmth and convenience.
"A Winter’s Charm in Carson City"
“RENO WAS ALWAYS THE ONLY PLACE WE WERE GOING TO MAKE THIS FILM."
In these films, Carson City often plays itself, with scenes unfolding against historic buildings, storefronts, and popular public gathering spaces that allow the city’s charm to act as its own character.
But Carson City’s cinematic appeal doesn’t stop at holiday cheer. The city has long served as the backdrop for a wide range of stories, most famously, the Krebs-Peterson House on Mountain Street, which appeared in “The Shootist” (1976), starring John Wayne, as well as Clear Creek, which served as an exterior stand-in for Annie Wilke’s house in “Misery” (1990).
The historic V&T Railway, Nevada State Prison, and wideopen sagebrush valleys continue to offer backdrops for westerns, thrillers, and even dystopian stories. As Jena Esposito of KPS3 explains, the city’s compact geography is a major asset. Crews can move between dramatically different locations in minutes, making filming efficient and cost-effective.
Ari Zucker and Shawn Christian are set to star in "An Anniversary,"
Photo By Casey Simon
BIG PRODUCTIONS IN FAMILIAR PLACES
Alongside the many locally driven projects, Northern Nevada has also supported its share of larger-scale productions. Over the past several months, a feature film titled “My New Friend Jim,” starring Rob Lowe, was filmed throughout Reno, with crews working across multiple neighborhoods and familiar locations, adding to the region’s growing number of higherprofile productions.
Reno has also appeared in other unexpected ways on the small screen. In the Paramount+ series “Knuckles,” our beloved downtown Reno was digitally reimagined using CGI, featuring familiar landmarks such as the Eldorado, Circus Circus, Silver Legacy, and the National Bowling Stadium, which played a key role in the show’s storyline.
Part of the city’s long-standing appeal as a filming location includes notable productions such as “Mission: Impossible” (1996) starring Tom Cruise; “The Da Vinci Code” (2006) with Tom Hanks; and “The Pink Panther” (2006) featuring Steve Martin, to name a few.
WHAT KEEPS FILMMAKERS COMING BACK
If you ask filmmakers why they choose Northern Nevada, you will hear the same themes again and again. They mention accessible locations, the ease of production, strong local talent, and a community that genuinely wants their projects to succeed.
With several films and series debuting this month and more in development, the momentum continues to build. Northern Nevada is not just appearing on screen. It is shaping the stories being told.
“Get a Little Out There With Alex Honnold,” Photo by J.J. Kelley
Dazzle your date with these dreamy outings
GREAT DATES
ARTICLE BY ANGELA RUDOLPH TAYOUR
Romance is in the air, and your love life deserves to be on Cloud 9. From spectacular views soaring over Lake Tahoe in a helicopter to grounding in your body and mind through yoga with your partner, below you’ll find some delightful date night inspiration for February—and beyond.
LOVE IN LAKE TAHOE
See Lake Tahoe’s blue waters like never before –take in the views from above on a helicopter ride. Booking a private tour is simple, and rides range from 12 to 60 minutes depending on the location. Vendors include Tahoe Helicopters, located in South Lake Tahoe.
After a flight in the helicopter, take a scenic drive up to North Lake Tahoe for fine dining at the SMOKE DOOR in King’s Beach, a unique culinary experience you can’t find in Reno. SMOKE DOOR Lake Tahoe Sayro is a Saryo (“small tea house”) serving woodfired cooking that combines flavors both locally sourced and internationally inspired. A tasting menu with six courses or a “harvest” menu with ten courses is available. SMOKE DOOR offers both lunch and dinner reservations, and welcomes walk-ins for the tasting menu, à la carte menu, or beverages starting at 5:30 p.m. at the bar.
LOVE IN ACTION
For a great reason to hold hands, we suggest taking your adventurous date ice skating. Locations we love include Reno Ice in south Reno, an indoor rink that offers public skating sessions periodically throughout the week, and The Ice Rink at the Grand Sierra Resort, which is an outdoor rink with nearby rentable fire pits to warm up after your session. Nature is healing and nothing opens your senses and helps melt your worries as much as taking a hike through the forest, mountains, or meadows with your honey. Pack up some cheese, berries, and a bottle of wine and hit the trails for some true romance. Our favorite hikes include the Galena Creek Bitterbrush trail for a mild and beautiful stroll, or the Jones-White Creek Loop with a side quest to Church’s Pond if you want a real challenge with 2,000 feet in elevation gain and 9.2 miles in length. Expert tip: Keep an eye on the weather; this time of year, snowshoes may be required. Practice mindful movement with your muse. Book an intimate experience, like a private Pilates session through Your Body Pilates and learn to move mindfully together. Or book a session at a yoga studio in town. Some of our favorite yoga classes include Warm Yin Yoga at Juicebox Yoga, Yin Restorative or Good Vibes Yoga at Temple Yoga Reno in midtown, or Slow Flow or Y6 Restore at YogaSix. Namaste.
THE ARTISTRY OF LOVE
A visit to the Nevada Museum of Art sparks wonder and conversation. With a Perenn Bakery location serving up goodies, seasonal exhibitions, guided tours, and a nonprofit gift shop that doesn’t charge sales tax, the Nevada Museum of Art has everything
“For a great reason to hold hands, we suggest taking your adventurous date ice skating.”
SMOKE DOOR Lake Tahoe
The Ice Rink at Grand Sierra Resort
"A visit to the Nevada Museum of Art sparks wonder and conversation."
Nevada Museum of Art
you’ll need for a perfect visit. Plus, if you attend on Thursday, February 5, from 5-7 p.m., you’ll enjoy the museum’s monthly “First Thursday” event, offering live music, beer, and plenty of fun.
The Lilley Museum of Art on campus at the University of Nevada, Reno offers free admission and is another great option. The museum is generally open noon-4 p.m., and parking on campus is free on Saturdays.
Recently ranked one of the best attractions in Reno, the National Automobile Museum is worth a visit. After checking out the classic cars, cruise over to the Riverwalk District and enjoy a meal at one of Reno’s riverside dining establishments including Toro Bravo, Wild River Grille, or the Shore inside the Renaissance Reno Downtown Hotel.
CRAFTY LOVE
Candle Vino is the best place to sip on some wine and craft handmade candles. From pops of glitter and a rainbow of colors to mix and match along with nearly every scent you can imagine, it’s an inspired way to keep your love burning bright. Plus, you can find a creative way to enjoy the candlelight you craft together back at home for weeks to come.
For the plant lover in your life, take a trip to Mayberry Landing and visit the Jade Lotus, a family-owned gift and garden shop. While there, you can sit down and design your own terrariums in glass vessels, creating a unique date night memento. After, pop into Claio or Madein for delicious dishes served up with love.
QUIRKY LOVE
For those who enjoy life outside the box, dip a toe into the supernatural. Receive a reading by visiting
a psychic in downtown Reno. Dolce Vida has a large menu of services, offers online booking, and is located on Wells Avenue. After, discuss your readings while on your way to a live music show hosted by the Holland Project, with bookings nearly every day of the year. Choices run the gamut from punk rock to indie, classical, pop, and beyond.
FOODIE LOVE
Cozy, safe transportation from unique Reno brewery to brewery – what could be better? City Brew Tours is owned and operated by veteran John Turner. He will take you either in a group or private party out on the town to visit some of the area’s finest breweries to enjoy snacks and high-quality beers from Brewer’s Cabinet, Parlay 6, Pigeon Head, and more.
Nothing to It! is a fun way to roll up your sleeves and learn to create a delectable dish with your food-loving darling. February classes include Valentine’s Day Brunch, Couple’s Love Bites, Chinese Takeout Favorites, and Gumbo, Jambalaya, & Beignets. Best of all? No one has to do the cleanup.
LOVE AND EGGS
Nothing says “I love you” quite like waking up with your partner and telling them you’re taking them out to brunch (with a mimosa of course) followed by doing a little antiquing together. Trust us – try it out and see your partner’s face light up with joy and adoration. A couple of our favorite brunch spots include Twisted Fork and Stone House Café. Afterward, visit The Nest, Vassar House, Midtown Antiques, or Junkee. The SPCA Thrift Store is also a solid option for a little quirkier and less polished finds.
City Brew Tours Jade Lotus
AT WESTSIDE DENTAL STUDIO, WE BELIEVE THAT THE TINIEST DETAILS TRULY MAKE THE BIGGEST IMPACT WHEN IT COMES TO CREATING AND MAINTAINING STELLAR SMILES. THAT’S WHY IT’S OUR MISSION TO PLACE EACH PATIENT AT THE CENTER OF THEIR ORAL HEALTH BY LOOKING AFTER EVERY DETAIL. THROUGH TAILORED CARE, CONTINUED EDUCATION, AND INDUSTRYLEADING TECHNOLOGY, WE STRIVE TO BUILD LIFELONG, MEANINGFUL RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR PATIENT FAMILY.
PRESCRIPTION: Awe
Health, wonder, and Northern Nevada
ARTICLE BY DAN ECKLES
It usually hits us without warning — the ocean horizon against a warm, orange sunrise glow, the quiet calm of a forest during a winter snow, a stranger’s unexpected act of kindness. That moment of awe doesn’t just lift our spirits; increasing research shows it can measurably improve our physical health and emotional well-being.
Awe has a way of stopping us mid-stride, pulling us out of our routines and back into the present moment. More than just a fleeting feeling, researchers are discovering that awe can reset our minds, strengthen our bodies, and reconnect us to something larger than ourselves.
WHAT IS AWE
Awe is not an easy emotion to describe or even accurately define. Different than many other feelings, awe can be positive or negative. It can be the result of a wide array of influences. These feelings are often self-transcending. They move our focus away from ourselves, make us feel like we are part of a larger process or realm, change our perception of time, and even leave us feeling more altruistic.
A 2018 White Paper from the John Templeton Foundation dug into the origins of awe. There are varying opinions about how awe has evolved, but the paper did say “Awe’s ability to elicit cognitive accommodation may also explain why humans evolved to experience this unique emotion. Experiencing awe may be adaptive because it encourages us to take in new information and adjust
our mental structures around this information, helping us navigate our world and increasing our odds of survival. Finally, awe’s ability to make us feel more connected with others and to be more helpful and generous may have also helped ensure our ancestors’ survival and reproductive success.”
Multiple studies published at PubMed Central show simple awe interventions result in fewer depressive symptoms and more positive well-being. Additionally, people who more frequently experience awe report lower levels of stress, even when controlling for other positive emotions. More generally, experiencing awe has been linked to increases in life satisfaction
A National Geographic article title “The Life-Changing Power of Awe” even elaborated, “awe appears to activate the parasympathetic nervous system (i.e. the ‘rest and digest’ mode opposed to ‘fight or flight’), which may help calm the body, reduce stress... and support recovery - offering a plausible biological mechanism for long-term benefits.”
THE PRACTICAL VALUE OF AWE
If you agree with the growing data that experiencing awe can be beneficial for your health, then you probably have some questions, such as: How does that show up in layman’s terms? How do I experience awe? Should I search it out?
Dr. Paul Kwon is a Professor of Philosophy at the University of Nevada, Reno and is the director of the UNR department’s PhD program. He says feelings of awe must elicit an emotional
Reno Philharmonic, By Eric Marks
response, and he is a big believer in the power of awe to have positive effects on people.
“Part of being happy in life is being hopeful about the future,” Kwon says. “When we have awe-inspiring moments, it’s a big part of that. It’s a reminder of something about the world that’s amazing. We need experiences like that to stoke hope for the future.
“Being curious about the world, seeking out awe-inspiring moments is important in general, but especially when life kicks you in the teeth. When someone is down on the mat and thinking how do I get up, if they lose curiosity about positive experiences in the world, that can be fatal… Deliberately seeking out these moments of awe, knowing these possibilities are out there, and being aware of them is important.”
Kwon says an important concept to remember is that every human thinks differently, has different biases, and values different priorities. Because of that individuality, awe-inspiration looks a little different for everyone.
“There is not a one-size-fits-all for happiness,” he says. “People who are extroverted, you might encourage them to seek out people (shared experiences), but somebody who is introverted might be more touched by going to an art museum. However you seek awe, that should fit your personality.”
The polarity of personalities will certainly inspire different types of awe. Jeff Bean is an engineer and the President of Heavy/Civil Construction at Q&D Construction in Reno. He’s a pretty concrete thinker that likes solving problems, often times with numbers. In many cases, if the math works, it can be built. It’s safe to say he’s an analytic thinker and there’s plenty that strikes him with awe.
“Honestly, the things that impress me most aren’t always the newest tech or the latest structures. It’s the historic structures,” Bean says.
“When I look at something built 100-200 years ago, long before modern machinery, computer modeling, or even reliable transport, I’m immediately struck by the sheer ingenuity and determination behind it.
“As engineers, we’re used to solving problems with models, simulations, hydraulic equipment, and modern survey tools. But those historic structures were built with mathematics done by hand, inconsistent materials, and construction methods that relied on pure human power. And yet… they’re still completed with precision and durability. That mix of craftsmanship, courage, and clever problem-solving leaves me in awe every time.”
Sydney Martinez is a little different from Bean. While they both like Nevada’s outdoors, Martinez is much more of a free spirit. She’s a consultant and Nevada locations expert for various agencies, having explored nearly every inch of the Silver State. In an interview with City Lifestyle earlier this year, she confirmed how she searches for awe across Northern Nevada and beyond.
“I’ve seen some of the most isolated terrain in the country. I’ve been driving off road and visited some amazing little Nevadaowned businesses and rural bars. There’s amazing geology in our state. (Exploring the state) all became a quest of mine and I became addicted to this feeling that there’s something else out there.”
It's safe to say awe doesn’t belong to one worldview or way of life. It shows up wherever people encounter something that stretches their sense of scale — whether through human achievement or the natural world. What’s consistent is not the source of awe, but its effect.
Reno Philharmonic, By Eric Marks
AWE IN THE TRUCKEE MEADOWS AND BEYOND
The great outdoors is a great place to find awe. Soaking in Mother Nature’s gifts, the region is full of amazing desert and mountain landscapes. But there’s plenty of awe inside too.
Many find awe in the talents of others. Dennyse Sewell is the CEO at Reno’s Pioneer Center. She sees the power of awe on the human soul when she watches audiences marvel at a myriad of Pioneer performances.
“It’s awe-inspiring to be in the presence of skill, talent, and excellence – especially when those attributes are combined to create an immersive live experience that has been meticulously crafted to take audience members on an artistic storytelling journey,” Sewell said. “The full-body goosebumps that can wash over us during a powerful live performance, and the way a piece of music or choreography can move us to tears – that emotional resonance is an integral part of the magic of experiencing a live performing arts event. It’s also a unifying human experience to be moved by art... There’s a sense of wonder to those precious and fleeting moments that is genuinely awe-inspiring.”
Evelyn Klatt is the chief development and marketing officer for the Reno Philharmonic. She had similar sentiments to Sewell’s, stressing music, maybe unlike any other form, can touch anyone, anywhere, from any background.
“I think what’s fascinating about musicians and artists is their ability to tap into collective knowledge,” Klatt says. “Many of us don’t have tools to express some of these things that express language, which I think gives us great appreciation for musicians and how they can expand our way of thinking in a way maybe you don’t otherwise do.
“Music has an uncanny ability that opens a world we didn’t know existed before… Music especially has an ability to communicate emotion. Every Reno Phil concert is unique, and I always feel like awe experiences are happening.”
Across disciplines, landscapes, and personalities, the message is consistent: awe matters. Regardless of how it is experienced —through numbers, nature, or a soaring note - it leaves people feeling smaller, more connected, and, research suggests, better for it.
Great Basin National Park, Travel Nevada
Nevada Museum of Art
Jim Morman, AAMS® Financial Advisor
Steel, Spray, and the Soul of Reno
ARTICLE BY ERIN HANNA-BUTROS MEYERING PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC MARKS
Sculptures, murals and lights in the Biggest Little City
In Reno, art isn’t always something you conceal in a gallery. It’s something you can stumble upon during your morning walk or seek out beneath the neon haze of a Friday night. In Reno, art often lives on brick walls, in alleyways, and towering in public plazas, inviting everyone to interact without hesitation.
This city has evolved into a living gallery— from massive sculptures migrated from the playa to immersive, playful worlds visible from the sidewalk. In Reno, art isn’t passive; it’s a relationship between place and imagination, between artist and passerby.
LIGHT AFTER DARK: WESTERN LIGHTS FESTIVAL
One example of how Reno’s art scene continues to infiltrate and change the city (for good) is the Western Lights Festival. Reno’s urban landscape will blaze with light as the Western Lights Festival returns, illuminating downtown with creative experimentation and community spirit.
Mark your calendars for February 19-21, when six downtown blocks will transform into an illuminated art experience nightly from 5-10 p.m. During this time, City Plaza, Virginia Street, and the Riverwalk—all general high-traffic areas—will glow with interactive installations, projections, and sculptures that blur the line between landscape and dreamscape. The event is free and open to all, emphasizing accessibility and community participation.
Expect glowing forms, animated pieces, and surprising pockets of color and sound that invite visitors to touch, question, and linger. For families, art lovers, and anyone curious about what public art can look like, Western Lights is a chance to see Reno reimagined and lit from within.
ART THAT STAYS: SCULPTURES AND BURNING MAN LEGACIES
Beyond illuminated festivals, Reno’s year-round outdoor installations give us landmarks, stories, and meeting places. Many in Reno can picture their favorite statue downtown. Mine is a Reno classic, the Space Whale. Giant sculptures like the famous Space Whale or the iconic word sculpture BELIEVE at City Plaza provide visual anchors downtown that are somehow familiar yet awe-inspiring. Many pieces originated at Burning Man, but found lasting homes here, merging Reno’s
Lincoln mural, 4th Street (Old Hwy 40)
Midtown
Midtown
“Outdoor and public works like sculptures and murals make art accessible to everyone. You don’t need a ticket, a gallery event, or any special knowledge to enjoy them.”
urban identity with its creative heritage. Others are commissioned by The City of Reno like the large, abstract piece made of stainless and Cort-ten steel along the roundabout at the intersection of Virginia, Mary, and Center streets (pictured).
Skiland “Ski” Judd, director of operations at The Generator, echoes the importance of Burning Man’s creative influence shaping public art in our region. As Judd (pictured) explains, “Many artists build and test large projects in Reno throughout the year, and these works often end up in public spaces and communities far beyond the event itself.” That means Reno isn’t just housing art, it’s building it, nurturing it, and exporting creativity globally.
WALLS THAT SPEAK: MURALS IN MIDTOWN & DOWNTOWN
Murals stretch across midtown and downtown walls like illuminated chapters of a city-wide story. More than 100 pieces transform alleyways, parking structures, and side streets into immersive visual experiences. From David abstractions to narrative portraits, Reno’s mural scene honors history, celebrates culture, and embraces playfulness.
While some murals stand out like the vibrant orange flowers in local muralist Erik Burke’s “Back In The Day Is Now” on the south facing wall of Kramer’s in Midtown or the vast abstracts of the Reno City Hall parking garage (pictured), others take a bit more work to see. The Ganesha mural in Midtown Reno, often described as a colorful mandala, is located in an alley near the old Recycled Records, generally north of Moran
Street, created by artist Naem. Another gem is the (pictured) Lincoln piece, which spans across a large wall along 4th Street (Old Hwy 40), not far from State Historical Marker 220 (which commemorates the ‘Fight of the Century’ between Jack Johnson and Jim Jeffries in 1920).
For a guided and maybe more comprehensive look, Travel Pineapple offers narrated tours that explore murals and public sculptures via lively pedicab or walking routes. Their MidTown Mural Pedicab Tour, Downtown Reno Pedicab Tour, and Tour of Burning Man Art blend local history, artist bios, and hidden gems into an easily accessible adventure that is ideal for both visitors and longtime locals.
I recommend venturing out to spot murals more than every few years, because as time moves on - sometimes so do murals, whether they are repurposed and painted over or fade with weather and wear.
UNDER THE MOUNTAIN: IMMERSIVE ART AT THE POTENTIALIST
North of downtown, visible from the sidewalk day and night, a surreal architectural creature rises across the façade and interior of the Potentialist Workshop. The immersive installation “Under the Mountain” sprawls across indoor and outdoor spaces, inviting visitors to step through imaginative portals or simply witness its presence from the street.
Inside The Potentialist, artists work in studios, rehearse performance pieces, and plan collaborative installations. Outside,
public-facing elements hint at the world within, which is a reminder that art in Reno often defies boundaries.
Pan Pantoja, art director of The Potentialist, reflects on the significance of creating public works that will outlast us:
“There's no way to convince people who don't find value in art that it is valuable. However, this entire city will be dust one day; this is inevitable, but when they dig it up and find the sculptures that remain, they will think that once there was greatness here. And the question is, do you want to be great?”
THE GENERATOR: RENO’S CREATIVE ENGINE
The Generator in Sparks, a few minutes north of downtown Reno is a community makerspace that provides artists with the tools and collaborative support needed to design and build large-scale public artworks that fuel the region’s boldest sculptures and installations from concept to creation.
Judd describes the mission of The Generator simply. “We provide tools, space, and shared knowledge so artists can take on projects they couldn’t do alone. Public art is a key part of our mission. We believe creative work should be visible, easy to access, and part of daily life in the city.”
Large-scale sculptures built here eventually land across Nevada in plazas, festivals, neighborhoods, and public walkways, giving everyday passersby access to creativity on an industrial scale.
ART FOR ALL: WHY PUBLIC WORKS MATTER
Supporting public art isn’t just decoration. It’s economic, social, and emotional infrastructure.
“Supporting local art is a direct investment in our community’s creative ecosystem,” says Judd. “Outdoor and public works like sculptures and murals make art accessible to everyone. You don’t need a ticket, a gallery event, or any special knowledge to enjoy them.”
Public art sparks curiosity, ignites conversation, and, piece by piece, builds civic pride. It is one of the few cultural offerings that truly belongs to everyone.
So as Western Lights glows across downtown in February, murals start to stand out on your drive through midtown, or you seek out the distinct and incredible art our region offers, pause for a moment as these creative landmarks are shaping our city and inspiring many. Reno’s public art asks us to look again, step closer, and imagine the greatness beneath the surface, both today and for generations to come. Located along the roundabout at the intersection of Virginia, Mary, and Center streets
"When they dig [up Reno] and find the sculptures that remain, they will think that once there was greatness here."
Reno City Hall parking garage
Skiland Judd, The Generator
West Second Street
BOTTOMS UP!
Christine Johnson is the woman behind Bubbles and Brews Reno Tahoe, a unique vintage mobile bar featuring up to seven pours, including perfectly chilled beer, prosecco, signature cocktails, or just about anything a client can dream up.
HOW CAN MY EVENT SPARKLE, JUST LIKE THE SPARKLING WINES IN YOUR COUPE?
Every memorable event starts with a conversation. We tailor the event around your vision, whether it is a wedding, fundraiser, kick off, reggae festival, retirement party, ribbon cutting, or anything in between.
We also have a freestanding bar, where we pour every drink that we serve, so part of the sparkle is us. We love interacting with people and we keep the drinks flowing so everyone can mingle, relax, and enjoy the moment.
Another way to turn up the magic is to incorporate customization. Hosts can personalize the handles for each tap, signs, special menus, drink toppers, straws, you name it.
Host an unforgettable event with Bubbles & Brews
ARTICLE BY MEGAN DOWNS | PHOTOGRAPHY
BY MELODY RICKETTS
TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR 1984 VINTAGE FJ45 TOYOTA LAND CRUISER TRUCK.
Our truck (which Johnson lovingly calls “she”) is part of the sparkle, and we bring it! People book her because they have some memories or connection with a similar truck or love that she is one of a kind. Bubbles and Brews is part of a franchise, and most of the other locations use Italian Piaggio Apes, (a three-wheeled commercial vehicle) but I received special permission to refurbish the truck because she perfectly fits the rugged, cute, and sexy vibe of Reno Tahoe.
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE DRINKS TO SERVE?
At a recent women’s event we served an “empower-rita,” which was a guava margarita that guests were going coo-coo over. Specialty mocktails also are popular and we work to create an exceptional experience for everybody, whether you are pregnant or want to be, sober, underage, or just not drinking that day. There is something for everyone.
One favorite is a spiced apple cider, poured straight from the truck. We serve unfiltered cider with ginger ale and tonic over ice, topping with a cinnamon stick. And, for those guests who want a bit of alcohol, we offer an optional spike of spiced rum. We think creatively about how to keep every guest happy.
What’s exciting is that the options are endless and not just limited to beer and wine. I did a wedding last year with kid-friendly lemonades in flavors like strawberry and lavender, complete with playful straws.
INGREDIENTS:
• 20 ounces highgluten flour
• 13 ounces warm water (110°F)
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2.5 teaspoon dry active yeast
A Pizza OUR HEARTS
ARTICLE BY LIZA BELKA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ERIC MARKS
Noble Pie is leaning into the Valentine’s Day spirit with one of Reno’s most charming culinary traditions: heart-shaped pizzas. Now in their 12th year, these pies have become a fan-favorite, crafted from the shop’s 9th-generation Sicilian dough and 4th-generation Brooklyn red sauce recipes. Guests can order a full-size heart-shaped pie or choose from mini versions, including the playful “broken-heart” pizza for those celebrating solo.
This February also brings something new. Noble Pie will host “A Pizza My Heart,” a Valentine’s Day edition of its pizza-making workshop and the inaugural benefit honoring Emma Marie Jordan. Proceeds support seatbelt safety education and advocacy. Attendees will learn to stretch and shape their own mini heart-shaped pies during an afternoon of creativity, connection, and remembrance.
To bring some of Noble Pie’s magic home, owner Ryan Goldhammer shared a simplified version of their signature dough recipe. While the restaurant’s typical method includes a 72-hour, triple-proofed dough, this home recipe delivers a delicious crust Noble Pie is proud of with a bit less time commitment.
DIRECTIONS:
1. Warm the water to 110°F, stir in the sugar and yeast, and let bloom for 10 minutes. Add the flour and mix for five minutes, then let the dough rest for 20 minutes.
NOTES:
(Makes ~4 small pizzas)
For a heart shape, start with a ball of dough, cut a 4–5 inch slit at the top, and gently pull and curve it outward. Salt should be added after the initial mix, and oil last. High-gluten flour and a fully heated stone or steel help replicate Noble Pie’s signature East Coast texture at home.
2. Turn the mixer back on, add the salt, and mix for four to five minutes. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil and continue mixing until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. Adjust with flour or water if needed.
3. Transfer the dough to a floured surface, shape it into a ball, and place in an oiled bowl. Cover and refrigerate for 24 hours. Remove a couple of hours before shaping, divide into four portions, ball again, lightly oil, cover, and refrigerate another 24 hours. Unused dough may be frozen.
4. When ready to bake, let the dough warm slightly below room temperature. Preheat your oven and a pizza stone or steel sheet to its highest temperature (580°F ideal; 550°F acceptable). Shape your dough and bake.
Noble Pie’s beloved heart-shaped pizza returns for its 12th year
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS FEBRUARY 2026
events
FEBRUARY 3RD
10 Torr First Tuesday Open Mic Night
10 Torr Distilling & Brewing | 6:00 PM
Grab a drink and get ready to perform - or at least watch others do it. Every first Tuesday, 10 Torr opens its doors to the public and hands over the mic. Everyone is welcome, from novices to pros, as long as they are 21+.
FEBRUARY 5TH - 8TH
Disney on Ice Presents Let’s Dance!
Reno Events Center
Rock out to your favorite Disney songs at this Disney on Ice spectacular. The high-energy show will utilize remixes of favorite tunes to bring beloved characters such as Moana, Simba, Timon, Pumbaa, Ariel, Elsa, Olaf, Anna, and more to life. And, of course, Mickey and his friends will be there, too!
FEBRUARY 7TH - 8TH STOMP
Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts
Three performances are scheduled for the beloved and long-running show “STOMP.” Described as “explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique,” the international percussion sensation uses everything BUT traditional instruments to create its fun-filled show, collecting many awards over the years and even appearing on television.
FEBRUARY 11TH
“Mimics” Premiere
7:30 PM
Before its released to a larger audience, “Mimics” will premiere at The Pioneer Center. A movie made by Reno locals Kristoffer Polaha and Marc Oakley in Reno, the psychological thriller pays homage to the Biggest Little City that inspired it.
FEBRUARY 13TH
Candlelit Sessions Concert with Eric Henry Anderson
Sierra Arts Foundation Riverside Gallery | 8:00 PM
Sierra Arts Foundation will host a Candlelit Sessions concert featuring Eric Henry Anderson. The concert will begin at 8 p.m. at the organization’s Riverside Gallery.
FEBRUARY 14TH
Virginia City's Devil
Virginia City | 12:00 PM
Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl
Virginia City is hosting its 13th annual Devil Made Me Do It Saloon Crawl, bringing the town’s historic streets and saloons to life with creative cocktails, themed drinks, and sweet treats. The crawl encourages everyone to embrace their status, whether single, taken, or somewhere in between, with signature cups for single, taken, or open to suggestions.
Want to be featured?
FEBRUARY 14TH
3rd Annual Chilly Chili Cook-Off
Chester Community Park | 12:00 PM
Head to the Chilly Chili Cook-Off, hosted by The Almanor Foundation, at Chester Community Park to sample 12 chilis. Then, vote for your favorite. Awards are given for People’s Choice, Judge’s Favorite, and best decorated booth. There will be a bar, fire pits for s'mores, and live music. Tickets are $20 for adults and $5 for children under 10.
FEBRUARY 19TH - 21ST
Western Lights Festival
Throughout Reno
Learn more about the Western Lights Festival in this month’s “Steel, Spray, and the Soul of Reno” story. Several key neighborhoods throughout Reno will come alive with lights, a free event for the community to enjoy.
FEBRUARY 26TH
Sound Bath
Note-Ables Music Therapy Services | 4:30 PM
Note-Able Music Therapy Services will host a one-hour Sound Bath with Nichole Schembre, a certified sound therapist. The cost to at tend is $10 per person. Ages 12 and up welcome.
ONE OF A KIND. ONE OF 24.
Nestled at the highest elevation in Glenhaven, this private residence o ers a rare combination of modern design, natural beauty, and sweeping views of downtown Reno. Thoughtfully planned, this home embraces the landscape, creating a serene retreat just minutes from city life.
Reno’s newest and most exciting luxury community. An exclusive enclave of just 24 expansive homesites with privacy and views, all just moments away from city life. Please be in touch to schedule your private tour to explore our homesites, completed homes, or Buy & Build packages.
