Palm Springs-based artist Alejandro Olmo will display some of his most recent works at a new exhibit hosted by the City of Palm Desert. Titled “Observations,” the exhibit is presented by the city’s Public Arts Program and will also feature works by artist Veronique Banger. The exhibit will continue to run Monday-Friday through August 21.

“It has been a goal of mine to have an exhibition in the Coachella Valley for a long time,” said Olmo, who works in several mediums including ceramics and watercolors. “I continue to find inspiration in the beauty of the desert and the surrounding mountains. This is a place I’m happy to call home.”

Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, Olmo has called the Coachella Valley home since 2008. In 1981, he graduated from the University of Guadalajara with a Licenciatura, (Bachelor’s Degree) with honors and distinction in art. He then studied under renowned potter Jorge Wilmot in Tonalá Jalisco, Mexico. In  1992, Olmo was invited to exhibit his work in Narita, Japan and stayed a year to study with the region’s ceramic masters.

Olmo returned to Mexico in 1993 and established his own workshop. In 1999, he was commissioned to paint murals and make ceramic pieces for a business in Lugano, Switzerland. He remained in Europe for a year with additional commissions.

In 2003, Olmo was created the “Calle San Miguel” outdoor area at The Corridor Shops in Palm Springs. Three years later, he was tapped by the Vera Cruz restaurant in Palm Springs to paint its murals and facades.

Today, Olmo is the co-owner/operator of the Coachella Valley-based Tlalli Arts, which produces murals, ceramics and artistic home improvements. Commissions have extended to Los Angeles for businesses and private homes. Olmo is currently working with watercolors and preparing for an exhibition in England.

The Palm Desert Community Gallery is located in City Hall at 73-510 Fred Waring Drive. For more information about the “Observations” exhibit, please call (760) 346-0611 or visit www.palmdesertart.org.