Flowers, Salvation, and Perspective in the Imperial Valley
Calipatria, California | Imperial Valley Desert | 2024
Why I Needed a Solo Trip to the Desert
There were a few parts to this trip. The first was simply going—finally going somewhere, seeing something. No real plans, just a general direction. Another reason was to be by myself. Hours alone in the car inevitably offer clarity and perspective.
But more than that, I think I needed this trip to answer a question I’d been asking myself: can I still see? Not just look, but see—to recognize beauty for what it is. You get caught up in jobs, in other people’s projects, and it all starts to seem a little Vanilla. Does anyone else understand that? I knew I’d take photos, but would I truly look at anything? Would I see it?
The Unexpected Beauty of Calipatria
Calipatria, California, wasn’t meant to be a stop. It wasn’t for gas or food; it was just the town I had to pass through to reach Salvation Mountain. But as I drove through, I saw these flowers—and I felt something. Energy? A voice? I don’t even know how to describe it. It was just a feeling, one that told me, stop and take a look.
The palette was simple: earth tones and a blue sky, with the unkempt flowers providing this incredible pop of color around the house. The photos are simple, but they are important to me. They are stripped down but highlight the simplicity and beauty I saw that day.
Rediscovering Creativity in the Desert
I took a few frames, and instantly, I felt better. That familiar feeling I was hoping to rediscover—it hadn’t left me. I just needed to step outside and see again. It’s all practice. Getting out there and creating something no matter how you feel is a priority. It’s probably best in those times you don’t feel up to it. It doesn’t have to be monumental. You need to use the talent you have while you are here.
What inspires you? What do you like to make or create? Let me know what’s up. You can check out more on Instagram @juanjuanston
