#BradfordMarketMoments: A Story of Transition
Gerard Liston | United Kingdom
Photographer: Gerard Liston
Exhibit Title: #BradfordMarketMoments: A Story of Transition
Location: United Kingdom
This work-in-progress photography project highlights the contribution to community life of two long-established covered markets as they move from existing sites to a new, purpose-built location. It is part of a major city centre regeneration programme and coincides with UK City of Culture in 2025, which will showcase Bradford’s diversity and creativity.
Research* suggests there are ways for such a change to result in markets that are inclusive, community-oriented and holistic. But the report also describes the challenge of avoiding the twin narratives of decline and gentrification in which ‘existing traders and customers can often be marginalised as rents become higher and markets change their atmosphere and offer.’
Visiting the markets over many months enables me to establish relationships with stallholders and the markets team, as well as giving me a sense of the transition, with some people looking forward to the move while others choose to relocate or, in some cases, to retire. It is striking how many are proud to have traded in the place for decades and the project aims to capture a sense of this evolving story.
* Myfanwy Taylor, Sara González, Paul Waley and Rosie Wilkinson (2022) ‘Developing markets as community hubs for inclusive economies: a best practice handbook for market operators.’ University of Leeds.
Gerard Liston's social documentary practice often explores global themes in local places. Gerard has taken photographs all his adult life and completed an MA in Photography with Falmouth University in 2023.
gerard@objective.uk.com
+44 (0)7973 837 342
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