Art Route 66 Gallery

Art Route 66: A Trip Down the Mother Road

Route 66, the “Mother Road,” is 2,500 miles long from Illinois to California. My Art Route 66 series is a journey through the forgotten beauty of old motels, diners, and wide open spaces. This road is more than a line on a map: freedom, adventure, and the American dream.

Along the way, I found the worn textures of weathered signs, crumbling facades, and abandoned gas stations that tell the story of a bygone era. I wanted to create a body of work that would bring to life the history and character of Route 66 and preserve its nostalgia. Every turn, from the cities to the empty spaces, is a window into the past.

The Route

Route 66 is a journey through the heart of America, a historic route from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. The route goes through 8 states: Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona and California. Along the way, you’ll see many landscapes, cultures, and attractions that showcase the country’s history and architecture.

From the hills of Illinois to the deserts of Arizona, Route 66 takes you on a trip through the American West. You’ll see small towns, cities, and rural communities, each with their charm and character. Whether you’re into history, art, architecture, or just getting out into the great outdoors, Route 66 has something for everyone.

Historic Route: Preserving America’s Heritage

The historic Route 66 is full of American icons. As I traveled through Oklahoma, Arizona, and New Mexico, I was drawn to the unique architecture of each region. The Art Deco of Missouri and the adobe of New Mexico are a testament to the many influences that have shaped this historic highway.

Along the way, I found fun little treasures like the Chain of Rocks Bridge in Missouri and the Blue Whale in Oklahoma. Every stop on Route 66 revealed more history and nostalgia and reminded me of everyone who once crossed this road.

I loved the trip and recommend it to anyone who loves going on the road.

The Art Route 66 series in this wall art gallery is a few of these moments preserved for future generations to enjoy and to generate public interest and engagement. If you want to see more from my Route 66 trip, I have the entire Route 66 Photography collection.

New Mexico: A 66 Gem

New Mexico is one of the most colorful and culturally rich stops on Route 66. Its deserts, sunsets, and unique architecture are a visual feast for any traveler. The old motels and diners along this stretch of road are a reminder of the nostalgia of the historic route. Efforts are underway to promote New Mexico’s cultural and artistic heritage along Route 66 and make it more appealing to locals and tourists.

In my Art Route 66 series, I’ve photographed the landscapes and landmarks of New Mexico. The desert colors, earthy adobe buildings, and endless open roads create a sense of awe and excitement. Each fine art image from New Mexico is a story of resilience and beauty, inviting you to experience the magic of New Mexico on Route 66.

Route 66: Freedom and Adventure

Route 66 is more than a road – it’s a journey through the heart of America. This road has always been about freedom, adventure, and the open road from the Midwest to the Pacific. The Art Route 66 series is the journey, a glimpse into the past, and a reminder of the adventures that await you on this historic road.

I found inspiration in the vast deserts and iconic landmarks like Roy’s Motel and Cafe in Arizona. The isolation of these places is a testament to the history of Route 66, a road that has seen many stories over the years. My images are of this legendary road's urban decay and natural beauty.

Route 66 Architecture: Preserving Time

One of the most exciting things about Route 66 is the architecture along the road. From the Art Deco of Missouri to the mid-century motels of California, the buildings along the historic route are a time capsule of a time when travel was an adventure. These buildings,' weathered facades, and faded signs are more than roadside attractions – they are pieces of history.

I love the Adobe buildings that blend in in New Mexico. These buildings, with their soft lines and earthy colors, are a contrast to the harshness of the desert and a glimpse into the cultural influences that have shaped the state. Each image in the Art Route 66 series is the architectural beauty of this historic road for future generations.

Artistic Landmarks

Route 66 is an artistic treasure trove with public art installations, murals, and sculptures along the way. From the murals of Tucumcari, New Mexico, to the Blue Whale of Catoosa, Oklahoma, there is creative expression of the country’s rich cultural heritage.

In Oklahoma City, you can visit the Plaza Walls, a curated, rotating mural project featuring local and international artists. In Springfield, Illinois, you can stop by the Route 66 Drive-In Theater, a nostalgic landmark of the golden age of cinema. In St. Robert, Missouri, you can find the Route 66 Neon Park, a one-of-a-kind attraction with vintage neon signs and storyboards.

Plan Your Trip

Planning your Route 66 trip takes some research and preparation, but you can have the adventure of a lifetime with the right resources. Here’s how to get started:

• Map out your route and decide what attractions and landmarks you want to see.
• Book your accommodations in advance if you’re traveling during peak season.
• Pack comfortable clothes, shoes, and a camera to capture the scenery and art.
• Consider buying a Route 66 guidebook or map to help you navigate the route and find the hidden gems.
• Don’t forget to eat local – classic American diners and roadside eats.

By following these tips and doing your homework, you can have the adventure of a lifetime on Route 66 and see the best of America’s art, history, and culture.

Route 66: Bring it Home

The Art Route 66 series isn’t just about capturing moments along the road – it’s about preserving the sense of adventure that Route 66 embodies. These fine art photographs are available to buy so you can bring a piece of this historic road into your Home. Each image in the series is a different view of the historic route and the beauty and charm of America’s Main Street.

From the deserts of Arizona to the roadside diners of Oklahoma, the Art Route 66 series celebrates the history and adventure of this legendary road. Whether you want a nostalgic image for your living room or a striking print to be a conversation piece, this series has something for every American.

See the Full Art Route 66 Series

Want to see Route 66? See the complete Art Route 66 series now. Each image in the gallery is a story of adventure, history, and exploration, a glimpse into the past, and a reminder of the magic of the road. Whether you’ve driven the route or want to see the landmarks, these images will take you to the heart of America’s Main Street.