City of Palm Desert Public Art Documentary Series

This series of documentary screenings is a partnership between UCR Palm Desert and the City of Palm Desert's Public Art Program, featuring the fascinating stories of artists and their memorable artworks. These free movies are open to the public.

Museum Town 

6 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2024

The 2024 Palm Desert Public Art Documentary Film Series returns with Museum Town, a remarkable story of how a rural Massachusetts town went from economic collapse to art mecca. Museum Town tells the story of a unique, small-town museum and the power of art to transform a desolate post-industrial city. Following the film, the featured speaker will be Jennifer Trainer, the film’s director.

The Cardboard Bernini 

6 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2024

Learn about the work and life of James Grashow as he builds a giant cardboard fountain inspired by the work of the famous baroque sculptor Gian Lorenzo Bernini. 

The documentary film is an intimate glimpse of an artist at work on what he considers his “final epic.” Following the film, the featured speaker will be artist James Grashow. 

The Barefoot Artist 

6 p.m. Wednesday, March 27, 2024

This lyrical and emotionally engrossing documentary explores the methods and motivations of Lily Yeh and her revolutionary work. It documents the two sides of Lily’s life: her international ventures mending the broken and helping to heal weakened spirits in communities in North America, Africa, China, and India, and a personal journey within, to repair her own fractured family.

Following the screening, artist Lily Yeh will discuss the film. 

Burning Man: Art on Fire 

6 p.m. Wednesday, April 24, 2024

Experience the amazing sculptures, art, stories, and interviews from the world's greatest gathering of artists. Get lost in a rich gallery of images showcasing the best examples of playa art with 170 photos. Artist interviews reveal not only their motivation to create art specifically for Burning Man, but they also illuminate the dramatic efforts it took to create their pieces.

Following the screening, associate producer Jennifer Raiser will discuss the film. RSVP now!