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Town of Yucca Valley seeking public comments on proposed public art

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The Town of Yucca Valley is seeking comment on a large-scale artwork proposed for the space in front of the library.

The space was created to host rotating sculptures from local artists in a prominent location at the intersection of Twentynine Palms Highway and Old Woman Springs Road. In previous years it has hosted pieces from Gubby Beck and Chad La Fever.

A new piece is being considered for a more extensive stay, this time from Yucca Valley Artist Philip Miller. His proposed piece is called, “Old Woman Springs – Eternally Young”  The 78 year-old artist describes his inspiration as the titular old woman of the road, saying “Who is she? The water giver, the farmer, the cattle feeder. I choose to honor her with this sculpture at the origin corner of her road.”

A mockup sketch of Philip Miller’s proposed public artwork.

Artist Statement by Philip Miller: “The Old Woman of Old Woman Springs flows through my mind every time I pass by on Highway 247, AKA Old Woman Springs Road. Who is she? The water giver, the farmer, the cattle feeder. I choose to honor her with this sculpture at the origin corner of her road.”

The Town is seeking public comment on Miller’s design for the space, which has yet to be constructed. They say it will be 7.5 foot tall sculpture of a woman pouring water onto the ground next to coiling springs. It is expected to be constructed of powder-coated metal.

The Town wants your feedback on the design of the piece before it receives final approval on October 14. They’ve provide photos of the proposed piece, examples of Miller’s work, and a feedback form where you can leave you comments.

Feedback will be accepted through September 26. 

Previously reported:

Jef Harmatz

Jef Harmatz is the co-host of Z107.7’s “Morning Show with Cody and Jef” and Z107.7’s News Director. He has worked as a journalist, cartoonist, chef, and delivery driver. He is known nationally for his writing and comics in publications like TimeOut, Popula, Roadtrippers, Solrad and Spiralbound, and for his album covers for Third Eye Blind and Sir Sly. He is known locally for his pop-up barbecue restaurant Hot Dog Panic. He remains unknown in the field of beekeeping, because he is too afraid of being stung to try it. When not on the radio, he draws comics and self-publishes little books. He lives with his partner and his dog Sunday in Yucca Valley, where he cooks them both elaborate meals.