There is a piece of land, the former Camp Dunlap, where buildings have been removed and the remaining slabs not proposed for removal became what we now call Slab City.
In 2007, Charlie Russell established East Jesus on this site, envisioning it as “The Last Free Place” in America.
The term “East Jesus” colloquially signifies a remote location far from essential services, unrelated to religion, except for the proximity of Salvation Mountain, which adds an ironic touch.
Situated a few hours east of Los Angeles, this off-grid establishment operates without municipal utility services. It serves as an art installation crafted from repurposed materials, promoting the concept of a world without waste and inviting visitors to contemplate this perspective.
East Jesus stands as a dynamic and evolving artwork, embodying the creative contributions of numerous artists who have enriched the installation in the past and will continue to do so in the future.
Since Charlie’s passing in 2011, a board of directors has overseen the curation and expansion of East Jesus, upholding his vision of a sustainable, livable, and ever-changing art installation.