Andrea Zittel’s Wagon Station Encampment

During mild weather in the Joshua Tree area of California, artist Andrea Zittel’s “Wagon Station Encampment” comes alive with artists, designers, hikers and campers and many of them stay in these elevated sleeping pods that allow for comfort, protection from the elements and fresh air. The pods are located a short walk from an outdoor communal kitchen, an outdoor shower and composting toilet. wagon-station-A-Z-zittel-sleepingpod https://youtu.be/-93teK4M9Fg Zittel’s A-Z West, a 35-acre residential and studio complex in the desert is a testing ground for the artist’s innovative sculptures, art installations and various design projects. The 10 sleeping pods are a second generation version of several types of designs that Zittel created for various friends and visitors. The pod designs were based on NASA Mars base tests in the Mojave desert and the pioneer settlers of Arizona. While they are not meant for full-time living, artists can spend several weeks at the encampment studying art, filming or writing. Each sleeping pod can be locked at night and contains a small door for ventilation, hooks for clothes, a comfortable mattress and bedding. Artists can personalize the pods with their own designs, rugs, bedding or paintings. Desert sand on the bed needs to be regular brushed off with a small broom. The encampment is open during one month in the fall and one month in the spring. Staying at A-Z West is free, but each guest must apply for their retreat/residency and are required to help out during the communal work hour — known as the “Hour of Power.”