"The bridge across the Colorado River-the state line is right in the center, Arizona & Calif. Below Needles, Calif. Walter. Baker, Curtis, Ward" c. 1930

This photograph captures three men perched precariously on the bridge crossing the Colorado River, marking the Arizona-California state line. What I love about old photographs like this, is the physical vulnerability of it - like it could tear or fade any second. Imagine the photographer, lugging around that heavy camera gear. What were Walter, Baker, Curtis, and Ward thinking as they climbed up there? It looks like they felt pretty intrepid, the way they are sitting up so high, almost like kids. Did they feel like conquerors? Maybe they were just trying to get a little thrill! There’s this real sense of daring and adventure, like they’re testing the limits of what’s possible. And as a painter, I get that urge to push boundaries and explore new territories. Artists like this photographer inspire us to see the world differently, to find beauty and excitement in the everyday. It reminds me of the ongoing conversation and exchange of ideas across time, inspiring one another’s creativity.