FRAMERATE: Desert Pulse, a multi-sensory art exhibit by ScanLAB Projects, invites visitors into the visual and emotional energy of the Sonoran Desert. Through photography, motion, and sound, it reveals new ways of seeing and deepens appreciation for our vibrant ecosystem.
five immersive installations
Present Echoes
5 min.
The plants you see in this Garden bed are the same plants you see on the screens. This garden bed was scanned every day for 365 days. One second on screen = 25 days in real time!
Photo by Sebastiaan de With
Elsewhen
10 min.
Head to Lewis Desert Portal and witness a saguaro’s transformation. As the landscape shifts seseaonly, reflect on how forces of nature shape the natural world.
Photo by David Blakeman
Calyx
7 min.
The vibrant cactus blooms you’ll see are a few of the species that the Garden is working to protect for generations to come.
Horizon | Imprint
20 min.
Kick back on Ullman Terrace and take in this cinematic artwork, that inspires you to ponder human impact on the desert
Desert Pulse
24 min.
The RAF Exhibit Gallery
Step inside the heart of Desert Pulse. This continuous video loop features 20 screens that are accompanied by a soundscape to provide an immersive perspective of desert life and leave you in awe.
Stay at your leisure or experience it multiple times during your visit.
Making Desert Pulse
View “Making Desert Pulse” here.
Ottosen Gallery Peek behind the curtain and discover how Desert Pulse came to life.
Desert Pulse By the Numbers
INSIDE THE PULSE
Dive deeper into Desert Pulse through our blog series, Inside the Pulse—your behind-the-scenes look at the exhibit’s creative journey and desert inspiration. Read more Desert Pulse Blogs here.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How to I purchase tickets?
Advanced timed ticketed reservations are available on dbg.org. Exhibit is included in membership or General Admission.
What is included with my ticket?
Your ticket to Desert Pulse includes full access to the Garden and exhibition, featuring:
• Four monumental outdoor video installations
• The immersive indoor experience at The RAF Exhibit Gallery
• A behind-the-scenes look in the ‘Making Desert Pulse’ gallery
Timed Entry Notice for The RAF Exhibit Gallery
Please note: Entry to The RAF Exhibit Gallery is timed due to limited capacity. You may enter the gallery anytime within one hour of your selected entry time. This helps ensure a comfortable and immersive experience for all visitors
How long are the video artworks?
Video installation run times range from 10-25 minute continuous loops.
Present Echoes | 5 min.
Elsewhen | 10 min.
Calyx | 7 min.
Horizon | Imprint | 20 min.
Desert Pulse | 24 min.
Is Desert Pulse for everyone?
Yes, Desert Pulse is an all-ages experience! We recommend young children be accompanied by an adult in the indoor, sometimes dark, gallery space.
Please note: Desert Pulse contains flashing images which may not be safe for those with photosensitive epilepsy.
Are there any restrictions for The RAF Exhibit Gallery?
No food or drink is permitted in the indoor gallery space. No dogs permitted in the indoor gallery space, except service animals.
Generously Supported By
