T H E   S A L T O N   S E A

The Salton Sea: California's largest lake, a sparkling gem in the middle of the desert, and an ecological catastrophe. After flooding in the 70s dashed the dream of a "desert Riviera", the water’s pollution and salinity rose to levels that spoiled recreational uses like swimming and fishing. Due to water shortages in southern California, most of the sea's inflow is now slated to soon be diverted to San Diego County, which will further destroy wildlife habitat and expose unhealthy sediments on the lakebed. Once those fine particulates becomes airborne in the high desert winds, respiratory issues may seriously affect the surrounding populations, including the half a million people in the nearby Coachella Valley. Restoration plans do exist, but the estimated over 8 billion dollars required have yet to be committed to the cause.

more history / artist statement

This body of work was recently shown at LA's new Annenberg Space for Photography as part of the "Water: Our Thirsty World" slideshow night.  It will also be featured in a solo exhibition at the Art Gallery of Windsor from March through July, 2011.

photos

slideshow (link to video on YouTube)

Salton Sea locator map