Top Choice

Noah Purifoy Desert Art Museum

© gabriel12/Shutterstock

Joshua Tree, California, USA - 28th April, 2013: Noah Purifoy's Outdoor Desert Art Museum of Assemblage Sculpture created in the high desert of Joshua Tree; Shutterstock ID 1248845515; purchase_order: 65050; job: POIs; client: Lonely Planet - digi...

The "Junk Dada" assemblage sculptures of African American artist Noah Purifoy (1917–2004) are collected by the world's finest museums, but some of his coolest works can be seen for free at his former outdoor desert studio about 6 miles north of Joshua Tree. Toilets, tires, monitors, bicycles and beds are among the eclectic castoffs Purifoy turned variously into political statements, social criticism or just plain nonsense. Pick up a pamphlet for a self-guided tour.

The website has directions.

Book popular activities

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.


Must-see attractions