About Us

Artist Statement

In our work, Suzanne Birrell and Chuck Jones seek to capture the intersection between history, culture, and memory, transforming fleeting moments into timeless narratives. Through the delicate and labor-intensive Platinum Palladium process, each print becomes a meditation on permanence and fragility—two opposing forces that shape our perception of the world.

Our decision to combine Platinum Palladium printing with watercolor toning is rooted in our desire to blend the tangible with the ethereal. The platinum and palladium metals, renowned for their longevity and unmatched tonal depth, offer a foundation of permanence. Over this, Suzanne applies watercolor tones, bringing in a layer of softness and nostalgia, infusing each piece with life and emotion. This fusion of Chuck's historic photographic technique and Suzanne's hand-applied artistry bridges the gap between photography and painting, inviting viewers to engage in a dialogue between the past and the present.

Inspired by the rich cultural heritage and everyday stories of the places Chuck documents, especially in Mexico and beyond, Chuck's subjects—whether they be humble animals, vibrant dancers, or traditional landscapes—become symbols of universal human experience. They tell stories of resilience, tradition, and connection to land and people. In each image, Chuck aims to evoke a sense of place that feels both intimate and transcendent, offering viewers a glimpse into a world that is at once familiar and distant.

At the heart of Chuck's work is a profound respect for the processes of creation. Each print is painstakingly handcrafted, with no two pieces exactly alike. The Platinum Palladium process itself requires patience, precision, and an understanding of the unpredictable nature of the elements involved. Most often several test prints are required to create the One Image, suitable for watercolor toning. The addition of the watercolor toning further deepens the individuality of each piece, enhancing the emotional and visual textures.

Our prints are not merely images—they are heirlooms, crafted to endure both time and the shifting tides of cultural memory. We invite you to experience these moments through the lens of tradition, art, and storytelling, as each piece serves as a testament to the enduring beauty and complexity of the world around us.