While trick-or-treaters roam the Valley searching for candy this Halloween, art enthusiasts in Tempe will be hunting for a different kind of treasure. Phoenix artist James B. Hunt, who goes by the moniker NXOEED, is preparing to hide his paintings along with a collection of curiosities and other mysterious items at secret locations throughout the city. This late-night treasure hunt scheduled for Friday represents the latest installment in his ongoing series of art drops that transform fans into adventurous treasure seekers.

Hunt has built a local reputation for concealing his artwork, particularly his paintings featuring beautifully grotesque figures, in various hidden spots around the area. His annual Halloween drop has become a highly anticipated event among his followers. "It's always seemed fun to me," Hunt explains. "It's a very Halloween thing." Participants eager to discover his work on Friday night will need to decode clues provided by the artist and his collaborators, turning the search into an interactive puzzle.

The main prize for this year's Halloween hunt consists of a specially curated box containing Hunt's artwork, including three original paintings, prints, and fanzines. The package also features music created by local guitarist Lawrence Hearn and various monster-themed collectibles. In keeping with the spooky season's spirit, Hunt has included several oddities and curiosities in the collection, such as a resin-coated centipede. "It's just some odd things I've collected on trips to the desert," he notes. "There will be art, music and monsters all in one package."

According to Hunt, the treasure package will be hidden somewhere within a couple of blocks west of downtown Tempe. Participants can begin their search by calling 480-389-4970 starting at 11:47 p.m. to receive initial clues. Searchers should also keep an eye out for the artist's signature paintings hanging from various structures throughout the area. These suspended artworks serve as important markers in the treasure hunting process.

The hunt includes additional clues scattered along the way, which Hunt describes as individual pieces of art in their own right. "So there will be seven of those. When you see them, you're getting warmer," Hunt explains. He offers specific guidance for participants: "I've been telling people is to just look for the disembodied face. And when you see it hanging on a structure, [that's] where the package is. Also, they can keep the face, too."

Hunt's tradition of hiding artwork began in 1997 when he was promoting a show at Alwun House. Since then, he has been stashing his creations throughout Tempe, downtown Phoenix, and other locations across the area. He views these art drops as a unique method of connecting with his audience that differs significantly from traditional art exhibitions. The interactive nature of the hunts creates a more engaging and enjoyable experience for participants.

"They kind of lighten the mood," Hunt reflects on his motivation for organizing these treasure hunts. "There was a period of time where I was going and doing shows and I'd see people there who looked unhappy, like they were obligated to be there. And that sort of bummed me out." He believes that incorporating fun elements into art appreciation changes the entire dynamic of the experience. "You shouldn't have to feel obligated to attend a friend's thing, so injecting any sort of fun into something changes things to where it's an activity where everyone can be involved. And the hunters sort of become collaborators in the project."