Visiting Palm Springs (33.82357518560234, -116.50471789540853) yesterday feels like stepping into a place where landscape and design are in constant conversation. The town sits at about 500ft elevation and is dramatically framed by the San Jacinto Mountains that dominate the skyline, climbing from the valley floor to over 10,800 feet and absolutely showing off on this clear day.

The city is famous for its midcentury modern architecture. I didn’t get a chance to photograph much on this visit, which just gives me a good reason to return. What really stands out is how much of the city’s creativity lives out in the open. Palm Springs places a strong emphasis on public art, with sculptures, murals, and installations woven throughout the city.

My niece recently introduced me the film adaptation of Wicked, so I was delighted to come across a beautiful park bench dedicated to the legendary Dorothy Gale.

Sir Vader Velociraptor Lee soaking up the SoCal desert sun rays.

The midcentury modern aesthetic... The Palm Springs Art Museum Architecture and Design Center (33.8191969593255, -116.54653100239811) has a cool vibe surrounded by beautiful gardens.