An exhibition of photographs, paintings, and sculptures by students from Borrego Springs High School and Middle School.
Guided by teaching artist Star Montana, the workshop began with Montana getting to know the students. Early conversations revealed a shared love for the horror genre, which led to discussions about desert horror myths and lore. Students then explored the prompt: “Psychological Horror in the Landscape.” Their work confronts the duality of the high desert—its eerie vastness and lurking dangers, its quiet beauty and profound stillness.
Many students’ work evolved to highlight the topographic beauty of the desert, echoing how photographers before them envisioned the American West. These young artists understand the desert in ways a day-tripper never could. Through painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed media, they delve into the tension between fear and wonder, isolation and belonging, myth and reality.
These pieces reflect the surreal and unsettling qualities of the desert and the deep connection these artists have with the land they call home. The result is a collection that distorts perception, plays with shadows, and reveals personal and universal hidden narratives within the desert’s stark, mesmerizing expanse.
Welcome to their vision.
Special thanks to Mike Kitten, Tom Hogan, Jesse Monsher, Karla Diaz, Borrego Art Institute, Wade Beane, Kim Wyatt, Robert Wright, Susan Percival, Jim Wermers and The Center Mall.
Organized by Star Montana, Jake Freilich, and Kris Kuramitsu.
Opening
Saturday, April 12, 3–5 pm
Location
Upstairs in The Mall, 587 Palm Canyon Drive, Suite 208, Borrego Springs, CA 92004
Gallery Hours
Thursday through Sunday
11am – 5pm
Through April 27, 2025
