Legendary Kersal photographer, Shirley Baker, has a new exhibition at the Working-Class Movement Library. It’s a fascinating look into Salford’s past during the urban modernisation of the 1960s and 70s.
Whilst looking around this 15-piece exhibit, it was so interesting to see how many recognizable Salford locations looked like in the 60s/70s, compared to how different it looks now.
Alongside the eye-catching photos, the museum has added many items from their own collection, which enhanced the entire experience.
Building plans, old leaflets, and more. It felt like you were sent back in time whilst admiring all the items selected from their own collection.
Furthermore, the team behind this project have done a very thorough job at creating informative and detailed cards, which were really helpful in understanding the history of each item.
Even though it is a relatively small exhibit, you are able to spend a good while in there observing and becoming immersed in Salford’s history.
The most special part of the whole exhibit was the conversations. Whilst being in that quiet room you are able to hear the nostalgic chatter of locals reminiscing on Salford in their youth.
It is lovely to hear the stories and anecdotes that the photographs and items provoke. It’s almost as if the people are as key of a part of the exhibit as the actual pieces are.
This exhibit forms part of a two-year long research project called ‘Capturing the Modern Backdrop’ by The Paul Mellon Centre for Studies in British Art, co-ordinators Dr Tanja Popplereuter and Dr Alexandra Mitchell, and undertaken by the University of Salford.
‘Capturing The Modern Backdrop: Shirley Baker Photographing Salford’ is free to enter, and is currently situated on the ground floor of the Working Class Movement Library till 21st April. Well worth a visit.
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