“New Mexico Coyote Fence” – A Moment of Quiet Beauty
In the heart of Santa Fe, New Mexico, where adobe walls meet crisp winter air, there’s a stillness that captures the essence of the Southwest. The simple, yet enduring coyote fence, stands as a symbol of rustic beauty and cultural tradition. In "New Mexico Coyote Fence", Chuck Jones captures a moment of serene magic during a rare snowfall in the high desert, where the snow blankets the wooden posts, softening the hard edges of this rugged landscape.
Shot at a quiet moment in Santa Fe, this 5" x 7" platinum palladium print, hand-painted with watercolors by Suzanne Birrell, highlights the delicate balance between nature and man-made structure. The fence, made of vertically stacked rough-hewn wooden poles, traditionally used by local communities to keep out coyotes and other animals, becomes something more—an iconic representation of the Southwest's blending of practicality and art.
A Snow-Covered Tradition
On that chilly winter morning, the coyote fence, typically seen under the blazing New Mexican sun, was instead transformed by the soft glow of snow. Each post, capped with frost, adds a dimension of texture and timelessness to the piece. The snowfall, rare in this region, feels like a fleeting gift from nature, adding contrast to the otherwise dry, desert environment. As the viewer looks closer, they can almost feel the chill in the air, see the distant blue of the sky breaking through the clouds, and appreciate the silence that only snow brings.
The platinum palladium process brings out the finest details—the weathered texture of each wooden post, the faint outlines of the branches overhead, and the soft glow of sunlight that pierces through the winter sky. The timeless quality of this printing method pairs with the hand-painted watercolors to elevate this photograph into a one-of-a-kind piece of fine art.
Chuck Jones: Preserving Culture Through His Lens
For Chuck Jones, who spent eight years and 56,000 miles traversing Mexico and the American Southwest in his Jeep, this image is part of his ongoing effort to document disappearing landscapes and cultural symbols. The coyote fence, with its long history and its important role in Southwestern architecture, fits perfectly within his project to capture the unique and sometimes fleeting aspects of this region’s cultural heritage.
Jones’ work isn’t just about photography—it’s about preserving a sense of place and time that might otherwise fade into memory. His dedication to the platinum palladium process ensures that each print will last for generations, much like the traditions he seeks to capture.
The Artistry of Suzanne Birrell
While Chuck Jones captures the moment through his lens, it is Suzanne Birrell’s hand-painted watercolors that bring warmth and life to the image. Her artistic touch enhances the beauty of the scene—the delicate blues of the sky, the soft whites of the snow, and the subtle tones of the fence are all brought to life with her expert blending of hues. Her work adds another layer to the print, making it not just a photograph, but a collaborative piece of art.
Why Own "New Mexico Coyote Fence"?
At $2,800 framed, "New Mexico Coyote Fence" is more than just a print—it is a testament to the spirit of the Southwest and a reflection of the deep connection between the land, tradition, and artistry. For collectors of fine art, this print offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of Southwestern history, captured through the eyes of a photographer who has dedicated his life to documenting disappearing cultures.
This print, with only one edition in existence, invites you to bring the magic of Santa Fe into your home. Whether you’ve walked through the streets of New Mexico or simply long for the quiet beauty of a snow-covered landscape, this piece will transport you to that tranquil moment every time you gaze upon it.
Call to Action
Will you be the one to take home this piece of Southwestern history? With only one available, "New Mexico Coyote Fence" is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to add a piece of art that combines tradition, beauty, and the mastery of Chuck Jones and Suzanne Birrell.
Bring the spirit of Santa Fe and the warmth of Southwestern culture into your collection today.