Explore Spectacular Outdoor Art Exhibits at Desert X
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Embark on an exciting and vibrant adventure in the picturesque Palm Springs/Coachella Valley region! If you’re in search of a unique and enjoyable experience, consider immersing yourself in the awe-inspiring outdoor art exhibitions hosted by Desert X. Delve into the enchanting landscapes and thought-provoking installations that dot this desert oasis. From larger-than-life sculptures to immersive artistic wonders, Desert X promises to captivate your senses and provide an unforgettable journey through the intersection of art and nature. Don’t miss the chance to discover the beauty that unfolds in every corner of this artistic haven!
What is the Desert X outdoor art exhibition?
Desert X 2023 is an outdoor art exhibition featuring site-specific installations by contemporary artists. The exhibition takes place every other year, with the current one taking place from March 4 until May 7, 2023. Some installations are still on display from Desert X 2021 and other prior years too. This outdoor art experience takes place across the Coachella Valley, with installations ranging from large-scale sculptures to immersive multimedia installations. Their website also includes this interactive map, where you see how the exhibitions are scattered around the Coachella Valley. I am including the GPS coordinates of those I went to below, but they are also available on the Desert X website.
A tour through some of the pieces at the Desert X exhibition
I spent a few hours going through the exhibitions, and below are photos and more details about them. As of May 3rd, 2023, I have visited seven of the exhibits. If you plan on going in the next few days before they vanish, the sequence in which they are listed below gives you a ready-made itinerary! Enjoy your desert adventure!
Sleeping Figure by Matt Johnson
Location: I-10 Exit 110 Haugen-Lehmann Way to Railroad Ave
GPS Coordinates: 33.922876, -116.689379
Sleeping Figure by Matt Johnson is an outdoor art installation made out of shipping containers. Set in front of the San Jacinto mountain range, it currently makes for incredible photos of the blooming desert landscape with the snowy San Jacinto mountains in the background.
To get here, take exit 110 on Interstate 10, and park on the parking lot located next to the eastbound on-ramp. From the parking lot, follow the sign to head east and walk for about five minutes. The trail is very exposed with no shade, but once you are near the exhibit, you can stand underneath it and it provides a little shade. I went on a weekday when it was not very busy at all, but when I drove by the Sunday after, the parking lot was packed!
Namak Nazak by Hylozoic/Desires
Location: Worsley Road between Pierson and Mission Lakes Boulevards, Desert Hot Springs GPS Coordinates: 33.965665, -116.583173
Namak Nazak by Hylozoic/Desires is an audio-visual experience, that you could easily stop by on your way to Joshua Tree National Park. On the day I went, desert wildflowers were in full bloom, and San Bernardino and the San Jacinto Mountains were both covered in snow, which added to the scenic views.
The installation is located a few steps away from the road, and you can easily park alongside Worsley Road. In addition, there is no shade at all in the area, and it is very exposed if it’s a windy day.
Searching for the Sky (While Maintaining Equilibrium) by Mario García Torres
Location: Pierson Boulevard between Foxdale Drive and Miracle Hill Road, Desert Hot Springs GPS Coordinates: 33.963394, -116.485582
Searching for the Sky (While Maintaining Equilibrium) by Mario García Torres is an interesting art exhibit found after a short hike up a hill. From the parking lot, follow the trail for a short walk. This exhibit is also very exposed to the elements. The sculptures are based on a mechanical bull and move around graciously like ballet dancers.
Pioneer by Tschabalala Self
Location: San Gorgonio Street and Bubbling Wells Road, Desert Hot Springs
GPS Coordinates: 33.940884, -116.483980
Pioneer by Tschabalala Self is a very interesting sculpture that will have you staring at it for some time. The parking lot is accessible by driving down a dirt road at the intersection of San Gorgonio Street and Bubbling Wells Road. Once parked, head northwest for a short hike. Shade is available near the sculpture.
Immersion by Gerald Clarke
Location: James O. Jessie Desert Highland Unity Center. 480 W. Tramview Road, Palm Springs GPS Coordinates: 33.868051, -116.553720
Immersion by Gerald Clarke is a very short walking distance away from the Unity Center’s parking lot. On the day I went, there was a fun 45mph wind and dust storm, which was making it difficult to stand up! This is the sculpture of a gameboard with entry points to the maze: Kichamka, Gawika, Tamika, and Temamka. Each is designed to immerse you in the natural and cultural history of Native Americans in the Coachella Valley.
Liquid A Place by Torkwase Dyson
Location: Homme Adams Park. 72500 Thrush Road, Palm Desert GPS Coordinates: 33.708547, -116.399372
Liquid A Place by Torkwase Dyson is very easy to find, with plenty of free parking and only a flat short distance to walk. This sculptural installation encourages you to remember that your body is water and its connection to the water around us, from the desert landscapes to the oceans and rivers around us. There are also hiking trails nearby as well if you’re looking to get more steps in, with great views of a very green Palm Desert town from the top!
No. 1225 Chainlink by Rana Begum
Location: 74184 Portola Road, Palm Desert GPS Coordinates: 33.775917, -116.368694
No. 1225 Chainlink by Rana Begum was one of my favorites because it was so fun to shoot at sunset. Despite the violent connotation that can come with chain links, this piece feels airy and free and is constantly changing and moving depending on the sun and the people walking in it, reminding us that everything in life is always in motion. There are fantastic shadows and views at any time of the day, but sunset and sunrise are the most popular times to visit this one. Highly recommended!
Post originally published on April 13, 2023, and last updated on December 9, 2023.
