Artist Jay Von Werlhof

The desert archaeologist and artist Jay von Werlhof of Ocotillo died on December 10, 2009. Von Werlhof is famous among archaeologists for his study of the geoglyphs, giant Native American earth figures along the Colorado River. What is less known is that Von Werlhof was also a landscape painter. (Thanks to Russell Kaldenberg who told me about Von Werlhof’s art career.)

Archaeology and landscape painting seem like a natural pairing. In both professions, you have to keep a close eye on the ground. Watch this site for more on Von Werlhof, as well as another Coachella Valley archaeologist who spans both worlds—Jim Toenjes.

Donations in Jay von Werlhof’s name may go to the Jay von Werlhof Research Fund for Earthen Art, 2034 Corte Del Nogal, Carlsbad, CA 92011.