King’s Rest Court, Santa Fe, New Mexico, 1980
Artist
Steve Fitch
(American, born 1949)
DateNegative 1980, print 2021
MediumPigment print
DimensionsImage: 12 × 12 in. (30.5 × 30.5 cm)
Support: 16 × 20 in. (40.6 × 50.8 cm)
Support: 16 × 20 in. (40.6 × 50.8 cm)
ClassificationsPhotograph
Credit LineGift of Steve Fitch, 2021
Object number2021.10.7
DescriptionNight view of vertical sign with horizontal elements, situated in a low brick planter with vegetation and a white mailbox. Sign has a yellow, crown shape at top that is outlined by light bulbs, below which is a horizontal field with red neon letters in script reading: King’s Rest. Below that is the smaller word “MODERN” followed by a horizontal arrow pointing toward motel and reading “COURT” in white neon. Under that the word “KITCHENETTES” then a smaller arrow holding the word “VACANCY” [not illuminated], followed by “REFRIGERATED // Air // Conditioning”. Buildings visible at left, telephone poles and street with car lights toward center, and line of trees at right with crescent moon above.
eMuseum Notes
In the 1980s, Steve Fitch was teaching photography at the University of Colorado, Boulder, photographing prehistoric Native rock art, and learning to fabricate his own neon pieces. He was also beginning to make pictures for the series Western Landmarks, largely taken in New Mexico, his first dedicated work with color film. Cottonwood Court, located on Cerrillos Road/Route 84 in Santa Fe, is a classic motor court inn with a neon sign to attract travelers. A 1960s postcard of the site lists the approval of the American Automobile Club and the recommendation of Duncan Hines, and American entrepreneur who began the practice of rating restaurants and accommodations for travelers. The motel continues to operate as does its unique sign.
On View
Not on view
Steve Fitch
September 9, 2006 (printed 2017)
