"Bass – A Portrait of Soul and Sound in Chimayo, NM"
In the quiet studio nestled in the artistic heart of Chimayo, New Mexico, a woman holds her upright bass close, her fingers caressing the strings as though they hold the secrets of the music she has yet to play. The light, soft and golden, filters through the room, casting shadows that dance across her face. In this intimate moment, captured by Chuck Jones, the essence of music and life converge. This platinum palladium print, titled "Bass," offers a glimpse into the soul of a musician deeply connected to her craft, surrounded by the silence before the notes begin to flow.
This 7.5" x 11" platinum palladium print, rendered on Arches Platine paper, invites the viewer to not only see but to feel the quiet energy in the room. The soft glow on her face, the subtle smile curling on her lips, and the gentle touch of her hand on the bass—all speak to a life lived in harmony with music and the joy it brings.
The Story of "Bass"
This portrait is not just about a musician—it’s about the emotion and passion that flow through every note played. The woman, bathed in golden light, holds the bass like an extension of herself. The room, Chuck Jones’ studio in Chimayo, fades into the background as the connection between musician and instrument becomes the focus. Her fingers rest lightly on the strings, and though no sound is heard, the anticipation of music is palpable.
The subtle textures of the bass, its curves highlighted by the light, contrast with the intricate lace details of her clothing. Her smile is warm and knowing, as if she’s about to tell a story—one that doesn’t need words but will be revealed through music. There is a timeless quality to this moment, a feeling that this connection between musician and instrument has existed for as long as music itself.
The use of the platinum palladium process adds depth and warmth to the image, bringing out the delicate interplay of light and shadow. The subtle details, from the gentle wrinkles on her hand to the glint in her eye, are rendered with incredible clarity, making this portrait feel alive.
Chuck Jones’ Vision
For Chuck Jones, this image represents the intersection of art and music, a meeting point where creativity in different forms converges. After spending eight years and traveling over 56,000 miles to document disappearing cultures, Chuck returned to his studio to capture this intimate portrait. The musician in this image is more than just a subject—she is the embodiment of the universal language of music, a force that transcends words and speaks directly to the heart.
Chuck’s use of the platinum palladium process allows for an unparalleled richness in the tones of the image, enhancing the warmth of the scene and the humanity of the subject. The size of the print, though small, invites the viewer to step closer, to engage with the portrait in a personal and meaningful way.
Suzanne Birrell’s Watercolor Toning
Suzanne Birrell’s watercolor toning brings the finishing touch to this portrait, adding subtle hints of color to the musician’s clothing and the warm light on her face. Suzanne’s delicate hand enhances the richness of the portrait, giving it a timeless quality that speaks to the beauty of both music and visual art. Her work complements Chuck’s vision, creating a print that is as much about the emotional depth of the subject as it is about the technical beauty of the image.
Why Own "Bass"?
Owning "Bass" is an opportunity to connect with the soul of music and the emotional power of art. This one-of-a-kind platinum palladium print, priced at $2,800, offers a glimpse into a world where music, light, and life come together in perfect harmony. The portrait speaks to anyone who understands the transformative power of music and the deep connection that artists feel to their craft.
For collectors who appreciate portraiture that captures the essence of its subject and the intersection of art forms, this print is a powerful addition to any collection. Chuck’s photography and Suzanne’s watercolor toning create a work of art that transcends the image, inviting the viewer to step into the world of the musician and feel the music within.
Call to Action
By acquiring "Bass," you are not just purchasing a photograph—you are stepping into a world of artistic passion and musical soul. This image invites you to connect with the deep emotions that music evokes and the quiet moments where creativity flows.
Will you be the one to bring this portrait of musical artistry into your home?
Own a piece of the magic that happens when music and art converge, and let "Bass" remind you of the beauty found in the quiet moments of artistic expression.