rock of faith

San Xavier Mission, Tucson, AZ

Mission San Xavier del Bac is a National Historic Landmark. The church construction was started in 1783 and completed in 1797. Restoration has been underway since 1989. It is open to the public, free of charge.

Located about 1.5 hours from Phoenix, 9 miles south of downtown Tucson, off of I-19 (exit 92, San Xavier Road), follow signs.

taken 5-5-2007

colorforms

University & Gilbert Road, Mesa

The Phoenix area may not have a lot in the way of historic buildings from a hundred years ago, but they do have the 60's and 70's era of architecture pretty well covered.

This is the front glass window of a local church. There is something nostalgic about color block that I just can't resist.

taken 4/14/2007

Last Call

University & Horne, Mesa

These little mom & pop run convenience stores seem to really come alive when the sun goes down. Offering whatever you think you need, they lure you out for one more late night stop before you call it a day.

taken 4/2007

beautiful decay

Central Phoenix, in an alley

I don't normally recommend spending much time walking the alleys in the inner city, but there was a time in my life when I would walk my dog everyday, looking for rich textures to photograph. The best source of material was the back alleys of my central Phoenix neighborhood. That's where the secrets of some perfect looking homes are revealed; as I walked around the backside, perusing the alley for neglected objects, I often found things that offered much more character then their front facade.

taken 09/07/2005

a pattern of disruption

in an alley, 7th Street & Thomas, Phoenix

taken 12/2005

gas n' rub

Lindsay & Main St, Mesa

Where else can you get a tank full of gas and an Asian massage in one place? Only in Arizona!

swim in

Lindsey & Main St, Mesa

This is my all time favorite vintage sign. It's full glory is seen at night when the swimmer becomes animated as she begins her dive, finishing with a splash!

taken 1/23/2010