S3E30: Exploring the Art and Science of Joshua Trees

Juniper Harrower
Juniper Harrower is an artist and ecologist currently serving as an art professor at Reed College in Portland, Oregon. Born in Palm Springs and raised in the high desert, Harrower has a profound connection with desert ecology. Her work is deeply intertwined with Joshua tree ecosystems, blending art with scientific inquiry to explore the impact of climate change on desert habitats. Harrower's work has been featured in academic and artistic spheres, with a focus on ecological relationships and environmental restoration.

Sant Khalsa
Sant Khalsa is an accomplished artist and curator who has been actively engaged in environmental issues through her artwork for over four decades. A professor emerita from Cal State San Bernardino, Khalsa has contributed extensively to eco-conscious art practices. Her curatorial work, especially on the exhibition "Desert Forest:  Life with Joshua Trees," highlights her commitment to the intersection of art, environment, and activism.

Chris Clarke
Chris Clarke is a presenter and writer with a keen focus on environmental conservation, particularly involving desert ecology and Joshua trees. He has a history of extensive research and analysis on ecological subjects, bringing both scientific and cultural insights into discussions on plant conservation.

Episode Summary:

Explore the rich intersections of art, ecology, and desert life in this episode with Juniper Harrower, Sant Khalsa, and Chris Clarke. As curators and contributors to the "Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees" exhibition and book, Sant and Juniper provide in-depth insights into their journey from conception to realization of this comprehensive project. Highlighted by compelling storytelling, the episode delves into their deep-rooted connections to the desert, blending scientific research with artistic expression to illuminate the pressing environmental issues affecting Joshua trees today.

The conversation covers the inspiration behind the exhibition, aiming to elevate the dialogue around Joshua Trees through a blend of factual inquiry and creative artwork. The exhibition, part of the Getty-supported PST art and science Collide, explores the rich ecological, cultural, and historical narratives surrounding Joshua Trees. Sant and Juniper share the collaborative process of engaging over 50 artists, writers, and scientists (and some contributors that fit into more than just one of these categories) to create multidimensional representations of the desert ecosystem.

Key Takeaways:

• Integration of Art and Science: The "Desert Life with Joshua Trees" project successfully merges scientific research with artistic expression to present a comprehensive understanding of Joshua trees and their ecosystems.

• Curatorial Approach: Sant Khalsa emphasizes the exhibition's unique curatorial approach by highlighting its breadth and the synergy between artists who live in the Joshua Tree area.

• Community Involvement: Both the book and exhibition foster community engagement by raising awareness of ecological issues and promoting proactive environmental stewardship.

• Environmental Threats: The show underscores the urgent threats faced by Joshua Trees, including climate change, industrial development, and habitat destruction.

• Cultural Significance: Juniper and Sant explore the deep-rooted cultural symbolism of Joshua Trees and address historical and current challenges through art and science narratives.

Resources:

• Desert Forest: Life with Joshua Trees: Inlandia Institute

• Museum Of Art and History: https://w