The Desert Art Center is the longest-running art center in the Coachella Valley. We provide art education to adults and children in a range of mediums. Our refurbished gallery, on Palm Canyon Drive, is a historic building and was the city’s first school. In normal years, we aim for 4 or 5 major shows each year, which are open daily. Gallery members can exhibit and sell their art to the public. We are a non-profit organization, and all our profits go toward the educational work of our organization.

Gallery Membership

Gallery membership is both a privilege and a commitment. As a gallery member, you are allowed to exhibit in our main gallery shows and sell your art. We also expect you to become involved in the cooperative nature of our volunteer organization.

One requirement of membership is hosting the gallery on agreed days each month. When the jurors judge your work, they consider not only artistic excellence but also whether your work adds something new and different to our gallery—and whether it will sell. They will also discuss your willingness to engage with the organization and what skills and experience you can bring.

Check out the Gallery Display Rules and choose your gallery category.

Application Process

This is a two-stage application process:

1. Digital Submission – The initial application is handled through Online Juried Shows. A non-refundable $25 jury application fee is payable to Online Juried Shows. This is the second and last jury for this season.
2. Personal Presentation – Shortlisted artists will present their work in person for final jury selection.

Stage 1 – Digital Submission

Applicants must submit their work digitally at www.onlinejuriedshows.com:

• Create a new account or log in.
• Find “Desert Art Center” under Current Shows and follow the instructions.
• Submit between 6-10 digital images of your artwork.
• Titles of images should include Title of Work, Medium, and Dimensions (width x height x depth if 3D).

📌 Applications are invited in any medium except jewelry and photography on this occasion.

Stage 2 – Finalists Show

From the initial digital submissions, jurors will select a shortlist of artists who will be invited to bring in two representative pieces for in-person evaluation.

• Location: Terry Masters Gallery
• Display: Finalists’ work will be exhibited for member and public viewing (not for sale).
• Judging: DAC-appointed judges will review the entries and select artists for full Gallery Membership.
• Artwork Collection: At the end of the week, applicants must collect their pieces.

✅ Be sure to review the Gallery Display Rules before presenting your work.

Spring Jury 2025 Schedule

• Applications open: February 3 – 28, 2025 (via OnlineJuriedShows.com)
• Artwork intake (shortlisted artists): March 9, 2025
• Finalists Show: March 10 – March 15, 2025
• Artwork collection: March 15, 2025
• First Show intake for new members: March 31, 2025

Membership Commitment

Once you become a Gallery Member and pay your $120 annual fee, you may exhibit your work in the gallery. Membership requires:

• Participation in regular shows (at least two per year).
• Hosting the gallery for six hours per month.
• Attendance at an orientation (dates TBD).
• Involvement in other volunteer activities.

Help & Contact

📩 For assistance with digital applications, visit www.onlinejuriedshows.com.
📧 For other questions, contact info@desertartcenter.org.

Liability Disclaimer

By submitting artwork, artists acknowledge that insurance is their responsibility. The Desert Art Center is not liablefor lost, stolen, or damaged property.