Road Closed – The Bridge to Nowhere in Rural New Mexico"
In the vast, open landscapes of rural New Mexico, where the sky stretches endlessly and the sunsets paint the horizon in brilliant hues, there lies a bridge that no longer leads anywhere. It stands as a relic of another time—a moment in history when the road was open, and travelers passed freely from one side to the other. Now, a simple sign reads "Road Closed,"signaling not just a physical barrier, but a metaphor for the forgotten paths and untold stories of this quiet, isolated place.
In his platinum palladium print titled "Road Closed," Chuck Jones captures this poignant scene of a bridge, rusted with time, its once vital purpose now reduced to a memory. The road beneath it is empty, the landscape beyond it untouched, save for the fading light of a New Mexico sunset that bathes the scene in a haunting glow.
The Story of "Road Closed"
The bridge, with its strong metal frame and fading paint, tells the story of progress and abandonment. At one time, this bridge connected communities, provided passage for travelers, and stood as a symbol of forward movement. But now, it is silent. The sign at its entrance reads “Road Closed,” as if to say that the journeys it once facilitated have come to an end.
Yet, despite its closure, the scene is anything but desolate. The sky, alive with the vibrant colors of sunset, casts a surreal and magical glow over the entire landscape. Suzanne Birrell’s watercolor toning brings this moment to life—the pinks, purples, and yellows of the sky blending seamlessly with the blues and greens of the distant hills. The once-gray metal of the bridge takes on new life in the fading daylight, standing in contrast to the road beneath it, which remains empty and still.
For Chuck, this image is more than just a photograph of a closed bridge. It is a reflection on the passage of time, the inevitability of change, and the roads we travel—both physically and metaphorically. The "Road Closed" sign may signal an end, but the open sky and the beauty of the scene suggest that with every ending comes a new beginning.
Chuck Jones’ Vision
During his eight-year journey and 56,000 miles of travel, Chuck Jones sought to capture moments that speak to the disappearing cultures and forgotten places of Mexico and the American Southwest. In "Road Closed," Chuck explores the theme of abandonment and renewal. The closed road, though no longer in use, becomes a symbol of reflection—a reminder that the paths we once traveled are just as significant as those we have yet to take.
The platinum palladium process brings an unparalleled richness to the print, allowing every detail—from the texture of the metal bridge to the graffiti on the sign—to stand out with stunning clarity. The 11" x 15" print, on Arches Platine paper, adds a tactile quality to the image, making the viewer feel as though they are standing at the entrance to the bridge, contemplating whether or not to cross.
Suzanne Birrell’s Watercolor Toning
Suzanne Birrell’s watercolor toning adds an element of warmth and vibrancy to this otherwise quiet scene. The colors of the sky, particularly the rich hues of sunset, seem to stretch endlessly, creating a feeling of vastness and possibility. Her use of color transforms the image from a static representation of a closed road into a moment filled with emotion, contemplation, and the beauty of nature’s resilience.
Why Own "Road Closed"?
Owning "Road Closed" is an opportunity to engage with a moment in time that speaks to the power of endings and the possibility of renewal. This one-of-a-kind platinum palladium print, priced at $3,800, captures the stillness of a place forgotten by time, yet alive with the potential for new journeys. The empty road, though closed, invites the viewer to consider the paths they’ve taken and those that remain to be discovered.
For collectors who appreciate symbolism, the interplay between nature and human-made structures, and the quiet beauty of forgotten places, this print is a meaningful addition to any collection.
Call to Action
By acquiring "Road Closed," you are not just purchasing a piece of art—you are stepping into a world of contemplation and reflection. This image invites you to consider the roads you have traveled, the bridges you have crossed, and the ones that remain closed to you. But even in the stillness of a closed road, there is beauty, peace, and the promise of new beginnings.
Will you be the one to open the door to this quiet, forgotten place?
Own a piece of the Southwest’s beauty and mystery, and let "Road Closed" remind you that every ending is simply the start of a new journey.