Arts Organization
nps.govJoshua Tree National Park
Art & creative community0 open opportunities listed
About the organization
Joshua Tree National Park, established in 1994, protects nearly 800,000 acres of California's Mojave and Colorado deserts. Its dramatic landscape—sculptural rock formations, Joshua trees, and vast open skies—has long served as a muse for artists, writers, and seekers. The park's artist-in-residence program, rooted in the National Park Service's broader mission, invites creative practitioners to immerse themselves in this environment, fostering work that engages with nature, solitude, and ecological awareness. The annual Joshua Tree National Park Art Expo further extends this ethos, showcasing juried works inspired by the park and supporting its educational initiatives.
Programs & opportunities
2 listedTaking part
Artists interested in the residency should first review the park's website for current application cycles and specific themes. Proposals should demonstrate a clear intent to engage with the park's natural and cultural resources, and a willingness to participate in public outreach. For the Art Expo, follow the annual call for entries closely; works must be original and inspired by the park. Given the high volume of interest, early preparation and adherence to guidelines are essential. A genuine connection to the desert environment, rather than generic landscape imagery, is often key to selection.
Organization media
1 images01Representative overview image of Joshua Tree National Park