Joshua Tree National Park has announced the Artist in Residence (AIR) Program selections for the 2026–2027 season. The program, supported by contributions from JTNPA, allows artists of all kinds to immerse themselves in the park’s landscape and history. AiR welcomes visual and performance artists, writers, and musicians.
Six artists will participate in the program’s twentieth year of hosting. These artists use their time and creativity to interpret the resources of Joshua Tree National Park through unique lenses. The artists are:
2026
- September: Bobby Lee, Santa Ana CA, photographer and book artist
- October: Lizz Dyer, Omaha NE, photographer
- November: Camille Gros, Fayetteville AK, textile artist
- December: Leigh Merrill, Dallas TX, photo collage artist
2027
- February: Montanna Rayne Harling, Valley Center, CA, writer
- April: Julie Wu, Oakland CA, sculptor
The jury comprised three local art professionals, three former AIR program participants and one park staff member. The jury selected from a pool of forty-three applicants.
Artists will be immersed in the park to work on a project proposed through the application process. During the residency, park visitors will be invited to engage with the artist as they share their work and process during a free public program.
