Datebook - December 2006

Dwell on Architecture
Known as a Mecca of modern design and boasting one of the highest concentrations of important midcentury modern architecture in the United States, Palm Springs is the perfect location to address issues of preservation, sustainability, and the future of modern living. Highlights of the Dwell on Design Conference — Dec. 1-3 at Hotel Zoso — include multimedia presentations, distinguished speakers, home tours, a screening of Desert Utopia: Mid-Century Architecture in Palm Springs, and a cocktail reception at the John Lautner-designed Elrod House. Palm Springs Life readers receive a $75 discount on the $450 conference ticket (does not apply to passport or early bird prices). To take advantage of the discount, use the code PSLIFE when registering at www.dwell.com/dwellondesign.

Information: (415) 743-9990, Ext. 526 or www.dwell.com/dwellondesign.

Ho! Ho! Ho!
Cathedral City celebrates the holidays with a Christmas tree lighting, ice carving demonstration, ornament making, games and entertainment, and a visit from Santa. The festivities begin at 4 p.m. on Dec. 9 in the city’s Civic Center Plaza.

The city’s Public Arts Commission follows up with a holiday concert by the 50-piece Desert Cities Pops Band in the Cathedral City High School Auditorium on Dec. 15 beginning at 7 p.m. Information: 770-0340.

Hart’s Russian Passion
Over a period of 15 years, The Hart Gallery has accumulated original paintings by prominent Russian artists — including Oleg Bogomoley from the prestigious Repin University and watercolors and oils by emerging artists Ludmilla Kovalyova and Alexander Kondurov, as well as classic and modern bronze sculptures. The Russian Accrochage exhibition showcasing five artists runs Dec. 7 through 24, with a reception during the El Paseo Art Walk, 5-9 p.m. on Dec. 7.  Information: 346-4243.

Into the Wood
Known for her whimsical robust figurative sculptures with aboriginal patterning, Charlotte Lees is showing her latest collection of carved-wood (some cloth-wrapped) room dividers, totems, and wall art at Desert Art Collection. Lees won the Excellent Maquettes Exhibit 4th Rodin Grand Prize at the Hakone Open-Air Museum in Tokyo, Japan, and the Gold Medal of Honor for Sculpture at the Catherine Lorilland Wolf Art Club Exhibit in New York City. Titled On & Off the Wall, the Desert Art Collection exhibition runs Dec. 1 through 28, with a reception from 5 to 8 p.m. on Dec. 7 during El Paseo Art Walk. Information: 674-9955.