The desert is alive with art! Desert X 2025, the celebrated site-specific contemporary art exhibition, is currently transforming the Coachella Valley landscape, and you can experience it now through May 11, 2025.
This free, biennial event invites art lovers and adventurers alike to discover incredible installations by acclaimed international artists, scattered across the stunning desert terrain of Greater Palm Springs.
What is Desert X?
Produced by the non-profit organization The Desert Biennial, Desert X is a unique art experience far removed from traditional museum walls. Its mission is ambitious and vital: to present international contemporary art exhibitions where the desert itself is the gallery. Artists create site-specific works that respond meaningfully to the unique conditions of the desert environment, its ecological significance, and its cultural histories, including those of the Indigenous communities.
Desert X encourages audiences to embrace adventure, seeking out installations that not only captivate visually but also tell powerful stories—emotionally, historically, and socially. It’s a platform for artists worldwide to tackle profound themes like climate change, immigration, cultural exchange, spirituality, and other existential questions relevant to our global society.
A Brief But Mighty History
Born from a love of contemporary art and its power to spark dialogue beyond traditional venues, Desert X launched its first exhibition in 2017. Since then, four biennial exhibitions have graced the Coachella Valley, drawing over 1.7 million visitors.
The impact hasn’t been limited to California; since 2020, Desert X has expanded internationally, helping establish the Desert X AlUla exhibition in Saudi Arabia. Highlights from past installations showcase the incredible range of creativity, setting the stage for the compelling works on view today.
Explore Desert X 2025 Now
The installations for Desert X 2025 are now open across the valley, awaiting your discovery. Through May 11, 2025. This year’s exhibition features thought-provoking works by:
- Sanford Biggers
- Jose Dávila
- Agnes Denes
- Cannupa Hanska Luger
- Raphael Hefti
- Kimsooja
- Kapwani Kiwanga
- Sarah Meyohas
- Ronald Rael
- Alison Saar
- Muhannad Shono
You’ll find their installations spread throughout Greater Palm Springs, from Desert Hot Springs to the Salton Sea, transforming familiar and remote locations into spaces for artistic encounter. Exploring the various sites is part of the experience – be sure to check the official Desert X website for maps and artwork locations before you head out. Visiting the installations encourages engagement with the landscape and offers a chance to discover local gems along the way.
Respectful Engagement
Desert X takes place on the ancestral lands of the Cahuilla People. The organization acknowledges the Cahuilla as the original stewards of this land and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to work with the Indigenous people of the region. As you explore, please be mindful and respectful of the artworks, the fragile desert environment, and any private property near the sites.
Don’t Miss Out!
This unparalleled art adventure is happening right now, offering a unique opportunity to experience world-class contemporary art integrated into the breathtaking desert environment – all completely free and open to the public until May 11, 2025.
Event: Desert X 2025 Dates: Happening Now through May 11, 2025 Location: Various sites across the Coachella Valley, Greater Palm Springs (Check Desertx.org for map) Cost: Free
Grab your map, plan your route, and immerse yourself in the art and landscape of Desert X 2025 before it’s gone!
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