The allure of the desert is nothing new, especially to artists who have long reveled in its vastness and quietude, allowing them to create in perfect harmony with nature. Joshua Tree, in particular, has become the modern Wild West -- a home for America's counterculture crowd. While much of the art is on the edgier side, some of it isn't because, really, anything goes here. There's room for it all and that's the beauty.
Before covering it deep for AOS, I had only visited Joshua Tree three times in my life, but each experience enlivened my senses and opened my heart and mind a little more. It was clear this community in the High Dez was like no other, which is why I’ve chosen to share it with you as my first AOS market!
Here’s a brief overview of some of the incredible artists, shops and sites around town that I’ll be covering for the next few months. Dive in and drown in some desert magic.
One of my earliest experiences out here was attending Desert & Denim, a renegade trade show put on by the folks of Juniper Ridge and Indigofera Jeans. The intimate event is a "raucous gathering of entrepreneurs, artists and industry leaders" that puts craft and community first with interactive demos and workshops from vendors, like indigo dying, perfume and candle making, herbal medicine and journaling workshops. There are also evening events, such as campfires, gallery night and music performances.
Joshua Tree, in particular, has become the modern Wild West — a home for America’s counterculture crowd.
A personal highlight was learning how to distress a tee using a shotgun with TOTALLY BLOWN. Check out the conceptual clothing line’s custom pieces made exclusively for AOS (less than 10 of a kind available). Find out more about their creative journey in our Q+A.
Since then, I’ve discovered an incredible community of artists, designers and shop owners out there. Here are just a few.
Everything about this place is just lovely. Brian Bosworth is a talented ceramicist and owns the shop with his wife, Jamie. It’s become a local favorite with one of the most artfully curated selection of goods from mostly local artists, in addition to Brian’s own beautiful creations.
Anyone who’s anyone who’s been to the desert makes it a point to stop here. Fashion icon Kime Buzzelli curates new and vintage goods in her shop made for fashion maximalists. You can’t help but do a happy dance inside this colorful, explosive print party. Shop her exclusive, curated collection here, and get to know her in our Q+A.
Xihomara Alvarez is an impressive wood worker who handcrafts stunning wall hangings, comprised of brilliant color accents and geometric designs. Check out her one-of-a-kind designs for AOS, and try not to be obsessed. Read all about how the desert inspires her work here.
One of the kindest, humblest people I’ve ever met, Sierra’s work really speaks for itself. The craftsmanship in her handmade jewelry is impressive, as she artfully melds sterling silver with natural stones that really bring them to life and make them shine. Browse her gorgeous custom pieces for AOS here, and get an inside peek at her art studio in the High Desert. Hint: it has quite the view!
Filled with vintage and handmade treasures from far-flung places, the goods at this charming boutique feel fresh and familiar all at once. Joel and Kim Patterson are the wonderful couple behind the shop. Generous price tags also make this place a hidden gem. Shop the exclusive collection for AOS here, and find out how travel inspires the couple in this Q+A.
Lastly, if you’re hitting up the desert, you’ll need a place to crash. High up on my list of sexiest places to stay is The Joshua Tree House and Joshua Tree Casita, designed by Sara and Rich Combs. The modern boho vibes were designed with the intent of allowing guests to stay in the present as much as possible “to reflect, reset and create.”
Get to know the couple and what inspires them in our Q+A. And check out the adorable, hand drawn cactus print by Sara, only available here.
