The City of Indio is vibrant with art offerings that reflect its past, present and future. From educational public murals to commissioned public art to annual events that celebrate a rich and creative local and national diversity, the city provides treasures to be uncovered by any art lover.

Murals

In 1996, Indio spurred a mural project, asking business owners and local entities to help expose the rich historical, cultural and creative legacy of the city through art. A bold rendering of the Taj Mahal by San Franciscan artist Bill Weber was the first work commissioned by the National Date Festival. Since then, nine more murals have cropped up by various artists, most specifically around the area of Old Town, revitalizing the streets with a new image and spirit.

The pieces reflect aspects of the city’s past and future ranging from illustrated portrayals of an indigenous Cahuilla Village to snapshots of the date, water and electricity industries in the area to a forward looking depiction of rebirth told through a vivid flock of birds in a wildly contemporary garden. Prints of the murals are also available for purchase, which continue to help fund the ongoing project.

Art in Public Places

The Art in Public Places program was formed to create artistic harmony between the buildings, landscaping and open spaces of the city while injecting art into the everyday lives of Indio’s residents and visitors. This beautification impetus has resulted in stunning public pieces such as noted local artist Phillip K. Smith’s “One Voice” which aptly sits outside the Indio Teen Center with its message of unification. Another piece, the iconic “Oculus Sol” by Buster Simpson, is a colorful, sculptural abstraction that reflects the agricultural and recreational desert of the Coachella Valley. Its structure bases are based on the leaves of the palm frond, often used in shelters of the past and present.

Art in the Square

Every February on the sidewalks surrounding the Indio City Hall, various artists congregate to create dynamic chalk drawings and vie for prizes. The day features art demonstrations and live entertainment.

Indio Performing Arts Center

In high season, visitors to the area can find an interesting roster of entertainment at the Indio Performing Arts Center. From plays to comedy acts to Chicano R&B to concerts by the Desert Chamber Orchestra, the venue offers something for everyone.

Coachella Valley Arts Center

The Coachella Valley Arts Center was started as a response to inquiries and needs expressed by local artists looking for reasonably priced studio space. Founder Bill Schinsky answered this call in 2010 through a building at 45140 Towne Street in Indio. Today, the center is home to 12 resident artists working in a variety of mediums. As part of their residencies, each of the artists participate by including their work in a roster of ongoing exhibitions open to the public as well the presentation of art classes offered to the local community and tourists visiting the area. Multidisciplinary offerings have ranged from contemporary installations by artists such as Quang Tri to evenings featuring local writers reading their work. Current programming can be found online.