In summer 2005, a group of local shopkeepers in Pendle took part in ‘Shopkeepers’, a pilot project to document the effects of regeneration on their businesses. Documentary photographer Gavin Parry took a series of photographs of shops and their keepers, which were compiled in a souvenir postcard pack and were also the subject of an exhibition at the Mid Pennine Gallery. Filmed interviews with the shopkeepers formed a soundtrack to the exhibition.
In keeping with the aims of Land, a series of workshops held during the exhibition offered school and community groups the opportunity to explore the ideas behind the project and the production techniques involved.
In 2006, the project is being expanded into other districts with the title ‘Talking Shop’.
Image: 'Shopkeepers' by Gavin Parry
