Features / independent shops
Bristol’s proudly independent shops
Every year, Bristol24/7 Editor Martin Booth visits City of Bristol College FdA Professional Photography students to give them a commission for this magazine. This year’s task was to explore some of the city’s most eclectic independent shops and the people who work there. Don’t miss the students’ graduation show at Centrespace Gallery on Leonard Lane from June 21 to 26.
Chloe Palmer took photos of Natalie Evans, manager of My English Home in the Clifton Arcade. “It’s a very sweet shop of beautifully unique pieces to decorate your home with,” says Chloe. “So many wonderful lights lit all around, spoilt for choice! Smells lovely as soon as you walk in from the scented candles and fragrance sticks.”
is needed now More than ever
Karla Salazar visited Fig on Gloucester Road, who sell handmade jewellery, homewares, art and textiles. “I had the opportunity to meet one of the six creative people who run the shop,” says Karla.. Her name is Robyn Coetzee and her art practice is based around the medium of kiln formed glass. Most of her art pieces are about nature and birds.”
Relics on St George’s Road, almost opposite City of Bristol’s College Green centre, “specialises in traveling the world for rare equipment, collectible vinyl and offers HIFI service and repairs”, according to photographer Mairead Hayward.
Upfest owner Stephen Hayles is taking a much needed break from the annual festival this year. There is still painting happening, however, with Upfest Summer Editions so far seeing a collaboration piece between My Dog Sighs and Curtis Hylton at the Rising Sun pub in Windmill Hill, and Jody creating a huge mural of climate change activist Greta Thunberg on the side of the Tobacco Factory. Photo by Natalie Bewley.
Clifton Cobbler on Princess Victoria Street in Clifton Village was founded in 1991 and specialises in repairing men’s and women’s shoes. They also provide a key cutting and engraving service and sell a selection of accessories. Photo by Kinga Kaczuba.
Lowlands on Colston Street is a shop that takes its influence from Northern European design selling old and new lighting, homeware and furniture plus design commissions. Photo by James Bihan.
Read more: Street photography celebrates Bristol’s brilliant diversity
Our top newsletters emailed directly to you
