A project celebrating the South Bank and greater Southwark area through the artists, artisans, traders and business owners that have made the South Bank the thriving tourist destination that it is today. Here are their stories of work and life on the South Bank. Read More...
South Bank Stories focuses on the hidden heritage of working life in Southwark’s South Bank and the changes it has undergone over the last generation. In recent years the area has undergone extensive regeneration as its proximity to the City of London has made it a hub for professional workers and commuters. In this rapidly evolving environment it is important to celebrate the heritage of Southwark through the telling of stories from people working in the area. We are documenting the Oral Histories of the real people of Southwark and what it is like to work in this vibrant quarter of London.
The South Bank is defined by its rich history of theatre, literature and trade. It was the original location of the Globe Theatre, and is the current home of the modern reconstruction Shakespeare’s Globe. Many locales are featured in Charles Dickens’s novels. Borough Market, still standing in its original site since the 11th Century, is the workplace of traders and artisans alike. Their contribution has been a key element in making the South Bank the cultural success that it is today and is a heritage deserving of recognition.
South Bank Stories features photographic portraits accompanied by oral history interviews by photographer Mike Tsang. The project is financially supported by Heritage Lottery Fund and a team of dedicated volunteers without which the telling of these stories would not be possible. The exhibition premiere will be held in Summer 2015 at venue to be announced. Please email to be kept informed of further updates!
Read Less...
For press and general enquires email: southbankstories@gmail.com
Mike Tsang is a photographer and oral historian based in London who satisfies his curiosity by taking part in cultural anthropology projects.
Mike's previous project Between East and West explored the notion of British Born Chinese identity and heritage. These interviews now form an important record of the British Born Chinese community and are archived in the London Metropolitan Archives.
For more of Mike's other work, see www.miketsangphotography.com. All images copyright © Mike Tsang.