While Palm Desert’s El Paseo District has long been known for its high-end boutiques and fine dining options, many don’t realize it’s also home to a thriving art scene, with an eclectic mix of contemporary and fine art galleries lining the iconic street.
“El Paseo has always been the ‘Rodeo Drive’ of our desert,” says Palm Desert agent and art lover, Loran Arvizu. “The influx of high-end retail shops has given galleries a great opportunity to showcase new and emerging artists. I encourage new home buyers and visitors to experience this street not only for its fine restaurants and retail but a gallery experience that competes with the best.”
We caught up with Loran to get the rundown on her top three gallery picks on El Paseo. Her insider tip? Start your art crawl on the corner of El Paseo and Highway 74 and walk—or hop on one of the city’s local trolleys! Also, don’t forget to check out the El Paseo Art Walk, beginning in November, when galleries stay open late, hosting openings, receptions, and more on the first Friday of each month.
“This cutting-edge gallery features contemporary art including paintings, mixed media, sculpture, glass, tapestry and photography. The gallery’s yearly themed program is always a pleasant and fresh exhibit. Catering to everyone from savvy collectors to art world newcomers, the 6,500-square-foot space plays host to a diversity of programing and lectures throughout the year.”
“With a focus on representing museum-quality work from internationally accomplished artists, this sleek gallery boasts 22-foot ceilings, glass concrete floors, and most importantly, one of the region’s most impressive roster of artists. The gallery has a large, open feel like something you would find in SoHo. The exhibitions are constantly changing, so I recommend visiting often.”
“When you enter this grand antique gallery, it feels as if you’ve entered an exquisite salon in France. It houses 25,000 square feet of the finest and broadest pieces from the 18th century to the art deco era, and owner and personal curator, Phyllis Washington, is known the world over for her discerning taste. She has decorated the interiors of celebrity-owned homes, private planes, yachts, and even trains. From furniture to jewelry and everything in between, each item feels priceless.”
Photography by Natalia Knezevic Photography
