About us
ABOUT US
Building a Better World
Adobe Mara Arts is a grassroots initiative born from the desert and built by its community. Our story begins with a simple yet powerful idea: that art and culture have the capacity to ignite change, foster connection, and create a sense of place even in the vast expanse of the Mojave.
We are a collective of artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and neighbors who saw an opportunity to transform downtown Twentynine Palms into a thriving Arts & Culture District – a hub that reflects the creativity and diversity of our people.
Our Mission
At our core, Adobe Mara exists to cultivate creative spaces and opportunities that:
- Empower Local Artists: We provide platforms, resources, and networks for artists – especially artists of color and those historically underrepresented – to showcase their work and grow their creative enterprises.
- Enrich the Community: By integrating art into daily life (from murals on our walls to monthly cultural events), we aim to improve quality of life, foster pride of place, and stimulate the local economy through cultural tourism and commerce.
- Educate and Inspire: We partner with schools and organizations to bring arts education to youth, believing every child deserves access to the arts for a well-rounded development. Through workshops, panels, and our blog, we also educate the wider community about the value of the arts and creative placemaking.
- Innovate and Include: Our vision of an arts district isn’t just about galleries – it’s about innovation (like exploring tech in art, e.g., AR art walks or even concepts like driverless shuttles for event transportation and inclusion (ensuring people of all backgrounds see themselves represented and welcomed).
Creating lasting change is achievable. Together, we can make a difference.
Terence Latimer, Executive Director
Terence Latimer is the Executive Director of Adobe Mara Arts. With a foundational background in community organizing and a deep-seated passion for desert art and culture, he first rallied the community around the vision of transforming downtown Twentynine Palms into a thriving Arts & Culture District.