The fifth edition of Joshua Treenial returns November 8–16, 2025, with a bold curatorial theme: Desert Futures. Produced by BoxoPROJECTS and co-founded by KJ Baysa and Bernard Leibov, this 10th anniversary celebration brings together artists, galleries, and cultural initiatives for a dynamic series of installations, performances, and workshops across the Joshua Tree region.
Rooted in the desert’s legacy of adaptation and reinvention, Desert Futures invites audiences to explore how climate change, alternative energy, space exploration, and artistic innovation intersect in arid landscapes. From plein-air painting and ecosomatic movement to mycomaterial sculpture and climate-responsive storytelling, the programming reflects both poetic inquiry and scientific urgency.
Nine Cultural Partners will activate the region with events including:
- Bezerk Productions: A two-day workshop led by Linda Sibio exploring hieroglyphic storytelling and multimedia performance rooted in marginalized voices.
- Compound YV: A plein-air painting retreat and movement-based performance by Stephanie Zalatel, plus the exhibition Waiting for the Wind.
- Goat Gallery: The Lazarus Effect, featuring repurposed photographic cutouts by Justin Moore and recycled pulp sculptures by Farout Collective.
- Harrison House Music, Arts & Ecology: A science-meets-art program with NASA Earth Scientist Dr. Carmen Blackwood and permaculturist Dr. Gary Blackwood.
- High Desert Test Sites: Everything Changes, a participatory climate arts reading circle and guided meditation at A-Z West.
- JT Lab: A reading by Rebecca Lowry juxtaposing Grand Canyon diaries with Apollo 11 transcripts.
- Aaron and Case Sheppard: Holy Mountain, Starman!, a cosmic performance blending light, sound, and desert mysticism.
- Yucca Valley Material Lab: Two immersive workshops—Area Zero on storytelling and community building, and a hands-on mycomaterial sculpture session with Sam Shoemaker.
Joshua Treenial opens with a reception on November 8 at BoxoPROJECTS, with viewing hours continuing through November 16. Sound performances at The Integratron will close the event on November 15.
Organizers and artists respectfully acknowledge that Joshua Treenial takes place on the traditional lands of the Serrano, Chemehuevi, and Cahuilla peoples. Sponsorship, donor, and volunteer opportunities remain available.
For full schedule and registration details, visit joshuatreenial.com or follow @joshua_treenial on Instagram.