high street stories (2021)—Exhibition of heritage photography, multiple venues, Wednesbury High Street, west midlands.
Commissioned by Multistory, High Street Stories celebrates the heritage and people of this historic market town. The exhibition was created in collaboration with local business owners, residents and local historians. My role as artist researcher led me to document the photographic heritage of Wednesbury, focusing on the areas in and around Wednesbury Conservation Zone. This covers Market Place, Upper and Lower High Street and some adjoining streets such as Union Street, Walsall Street and Russell Street.
Historically a centre for the manufacturing industry, through the 19th and early 20th centuries Wednesbury had a thriving town centre that supported hundreds of businesses and market traders. However, like many British high streets, Wednesbury is in a state of decline. We were interested in documenting the history of some of the buildings and businesses, through the personal stories and memories of the people who lived and worked there.
The people who have contributed to this project have a meaningful connection to Wednesbury High Street. Some are from families with long-established businesses, others were employees. All have lived, or worked, in Wednesbury for a significant part of their lives. Their photographs from personal collections and photo-albums, give us an insight into what it means to own a family business, not only to these people and their families but to us, the surrounding community.
High Street Stories was made with the following partners
The Art of Taking Part 