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Art Queen, the iconic community public space in downtown Joshua Tree for music, art and local vendors, has been sold to a Los Angeles-based non-profit. The complex, which covers more than one acre on the south side of Twentynine Palms Highway, includes a number of storefronts and residences, and was listed for sale at just over $2 million dollars.
The buyers – AHA Projects – say their mission statement focuses on providing support to artists and people working in creative fields. Their plan for Art Queen which they officially acquire this week is to preserve and enhance its vibrant arts and culture scene.
The Art Queen has encouraged connection, inspiration, and entertainment in the heart of downtown Joshua Tree for many years. The public spaces under AHA, including stages and seating areas, will remain open to everyone. It will continue to be a gathering place for the Morongo Basin communities and host various events such as music performances, poetry readings, book clubs, and collaborative projects for nonprofits.
“I’m actually very excited to move forward with the nonprofit. because, first of all, she’s going to go right in and give us all new electricity wiring resume wiring, and that was much needed in all of our spaces.” That is Shari Elf, an artist, fashion designer, musician, silk screener, and owner of the “World Famous Crochet Museum.” Elf’s museum, studio, and store have been at the heart of the Art Queen for twenty years.
The person Elf referenced is Executive Director for AHA Projects, Cheyanne M. Sauter, who said when asked about the project, that “Art Queen has a rich history of inviting the community to celebrate together. AHA Project’s goal in purchasing Art Queen is to preserve and elevate the existing arts and culture thriving on that land. We want to build an economic environment that elevates our artists and does not displace them.”
In an era where many small art towns face gentrification and artists struggle with rising living and workspace costs, AHA Projects advocates for land-use models that prioritize preserving and enhancing art spaces.
AHA firmly believes that providing accessible and affordable spaces to a thriving artistic community will prevent the loss of valuable community resources.
“You are in the Beauty Bubble Salon and Museum. I have been in this location for a little over eight years.” That is Jeff Hafler, owner of the Beauty Bubble. “I feel like there’s going to be a whole new energy breathed into the Art Queen and Sun Alley Shops. Joshua Tree is such a popular destination for people from all over the world.”
AHA Projects will officially take over Art Queen on April 16, 2024. Existing retail artists will continue their operations, while significant infrastructure upgrades will be completed by late Fall. Vacancies will become available in the coming months, with AHA’s commitment to ensure transparent and equitable access.
Stay updated on developments by following Art Queen’s Instagram page, @artqueen_jt
