Desert X art installation along SR 62 found vandalized

Luis Avila

DESERT HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – A temporary Desert X art installation near Desert Hot Springs has been defaced with graffiti, leaving many residents and visitors frustrated and disappointed.

The large stone structure, part of the valley-wide Desert X contemporary art exhibition, towers above the desert floor along Route 62. Titled “The act of being together,” the installation was designed to inspire unity. Instead, it has become the target of vandalism, sparking questions about its extended presence and the lack of security.

“It’s for the people to enjoy and somebody comes and wrecks it, very disappointed that somebody would have to do that.”

Randy Dixon, Morongo Valley Resident

The 2025 Desert X exhibition officially ended in May, but this particular installation was granted an extension and was scheduled to remain on display until October 1. Its continued presence weeks past that date has led some to wonder why it hadn’t been removed earlier — and whether the delay contributed to the vandalism.

“When Desert X ended for its season and this wasn’t taken down, I was kind of surprised because usually some of the exhibits were taken down and this one kept sitting here and I was wondering how long it was going to take for it to become someone’s pallet.”

Cliff Williams, Whitewater Resident

In response, Desert X Executive Director Jenny Gil told News Channel 3 that the installation is now scheduled to be removed in the coming weeks. She did not provide a specific reason for the delay.

In a statement, Gil stated:

“Desert X takes extensive measures to protect and preserve artworks, which are thoughtfully designed to be resilient and withstand exposure to the elements, public interaction, and other unforeseen circumstances.”

She added that incidents of vandalism are rare and that the artwork will be restored.

Locals hope that happens soon.

Stay with News Channel 3 for more.

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