The Desert Art Collection and Sculpture Garden, located in the heart of Palm Desert’s tony El Paseo district, is a true gem.
The tucked-away location, at 45350 San Luis Rey Ave. (just south of El Paseo), is a stone’s throw from the iconic eateries, luxury stores and boutique shops that have made El Paseo a place of choice for designer fashion and world-class art. The unique building is one of the oldest in the area and offers an inviting, well-designed space.
Bright decorative flags waving from the entrance welcome visitors into this elegant building. The artisan metal doors open to a delightful courtyard with wonderful sculpture. One experiences serenity and aesthetic enjoyment, thanks to bright colors and beautiful stone creations in the garden courtyard.
The gallery features an array of North American artists and sculptors that are all award-winning in their respective mediums. Credit the fine curating by the director, Jana Koroczynsky; she and owner Mike Fedderly are experts in corporate, residential and public art/architectural projects.
You will find collections of exotic African art and contemporary African sculptures that would complement any collection. The Native American collection is another important presence; after all, carvings and other works by American Indians have always been part of the culture and arts in the area. Bronze sculptures depicting a way of life relevant to our relationship with the horse are displayed with the tribal collection in the east wing of the gallery.
The heart of the interior space focuses on contemporary art. Sculptures of crystal and stone can be found throughout the compound. Bright-colored metal sheaths serve as decorative sculpture and are joined by original paintings by the 18 artists represented by the gallery. More 20 sculptors on the gallery roster are all a part of the gallery.
The landscape is credited to another force: the Lotus Garden Center, where a talented team creates custom landscape design installations. Beautiful ceramics in azure glazes beckon among the on-site succulents.
The glass and crystal collection consists of works by six different artists featured in the gallery. Free-standing 7-foot-tall works tower over guests, while smaller pieces join them in seamless synchronicity. The art gallery and sculpture garden share an architectural tone that stems from its creation decades ago by the Fedderly Group.
I recommend this as a destination spot where one can enjoy good art and pleasing surroundings before lunch or perhaps dinner at one of the many restaurants along El Paseo. Those who haven’t yet experienced this secret spot will be surprised to discover the treasures in art and sculpture that are rather well-priced, considering they’re usually one-of-a-kind pieces.
During the summer, of course, appointments are suggested, as the hours of operation are limited. Call 760-674-9955.
Richard Almada is the CEO and president of Artistic Relations and heads up Desert Art Tours. He can be reached at ArtisticRelations@gmail.com.