Desert wilderness has inspired cultures, prophets, poets and outlaws since the earliest human civilizations. Desert Oracle, the decade-long project of Joshua Tree writer Ken Layne, explores the mythic and spiritual aspects of America’s southwest through small-press periodicals, a late-night radio show and, most recently, an acclaimed book collection that was on the Los Angeles Times bestsellers list throughout 2022. Layne’s work is inspired by nature mystics such as John Muir, Mary Hunter Austin and William Blake, reflecting his belief that environmental stewardship comes from deep ecoregional ties to the land, wildlife and especially storytelling culture. For info on parking, visit www.sandiego.edu/parking/parking-information/guests.php