through light and form, paul clemence's images reveal modernist heritage of palm springs

Paul Clemence’s images frame the modernist spirit of palm springs

Photographer and artist Paul Clemence introduces his latest series, LANDSCAPE, GEOMETRY + LIGHT, capturing the architectural identity of Palm Springs. Through his visual essay, Clemence depicts the bold lines, sharp geometries, and interaction of light and shadow that compose the architectural identity of the city.

Palm Springs has long been a global reference for midcentury modernism, with its collection of iconic structures by Richard Neutra, Albert Frey, John Lautner, and other pioneering architects. Clemence, through his photography, highlights these landmarks while also turning his lens toward contemporary structures that reinterpret the area’s modernist DNA. ‘To walk around Palm Springs is to enter a whimsical world of cool, skewed geometry, bold colors, and striking forms,’ Clemence shares. ‘Everywhere you look, there’s a graphic quality to the architecture and the city itself—it’s an abstractionist paradise. Let’s just say, me and my camera were very happy!’

The launch of LANDSCAPE, GEOMETRY + LIGHT coincides with Modernism Week, an annual festival dedicated to the education and celebration of modernist architecture, design, and culture.

all images by Paul Clemence

LANDSCAPE, GEOMETRY + LIGHT alights with modernism week

Paul Clemence’s images highlight these landmark buildings while also framing the evolving architectural landscape, showcasing contemporary structures that carry forward the legacy of modernism in the desert. Against the stark terrain, the built environment of Palm Springs takes on a near-futuristic quality, where crisp light and deep shadows heighten its visual drama. ‘Between the dry air, the palm trees, the bright light, and the stark contrast of shadowing, the place feels otherworldly—like another planet! No wonder it had such a draw for modern architects,’ the American-Brazilian artist observes. His reflections also trace broader architectural influences within the midcentury masterpieces of the city. ‘These architects developed their own distinct take on modernism, but you can still see the imprint—sometimes quite literally—of Le Corbusier, Oscar Niemeyer, and Mies van der Rohe,’ he notes.

The first phase of LANDSCAPE, GEOMETRY + LIGHT aligns with Modernism Week, offering a timely reflection on the city’s enduring architectural allure. The annual festival features home tours, expert-led lectures, film screenings, exhibitions, and social gatherings that celebrate Palm Springs’ modernist heritage. In 2025, Modernism Week marks its 20th anniversary, continuing its mission of preservation, community engagement, and support for the future of design through scholarship programs.

Paul Clemence introduces his latest series, LANDSCAPE, GEOMETRY + LIGHT