By Denise Morrison

An eclectic art scene thrives in Joshua Tree. On more than 7 acres of open land the assemblage sculptor, Noah Purifoy, has created an Outdoor Desert Art Museum. Purifoy (1917 – 2004) was a founder of the Watts Towers Arts Center. His work of environmental sculptures using old bicycles, mannequins, salvaged or burnt wood, castoff metals, and other discarded objects create the feel of a post-modern ghost town. In town, galleries that are artists-run take part in monthly ‘art crawls’ showcasing contemporary art, painting, sculpture, & photography. The annual event “High Desert Test Sites” features new and experimental work by emerging and established artists, architects, and designers. For a period of time their installations, recycled in nature, are located in various areas across Joshua Tree and Yucca Valley.