Wholesale Vanishing Vernacular: Western Landmarks

Finalist 2018 New Mexico-Arizona Book Awards – Arts Books. Steve Fitch is a well-known chronicler of the American West, photographing its changing vernacular landscape and vanishing roadside landmarks for over 40 years. In his new book, he presents ancient and modern elements like petroglyphs, neon motel signs, and drive-in movie screens, all endangered by the Interstate Highway System and corporate franchises. This comprehensive account features 120 unforgettable photographs sequenced to mimic the open road, day and night. Fitch's introduction discusses how ancient petroglyphs have endured better than recent creations. Curator Toby Jurovics positions Fitch’s work within the “New Topographics” style. Vanishing Vernacular: Western Landmarks is a modern classic, witnessing the historic preservation of a fading roadside culture.