Portrait of a Market Town by Celia Bartlett (Collated Observations 16)
Collated Observations is a series of regular photozines showcasing aspects of modern life through the lens of a different UK-based photographer each issue.
Issue 16 features a project by Celia Bartlett, a photojournalist and documentary photographer based in the north Essex town of Saffron Walden.
It is often advised to work with what you know best, and I have certainly come to know Saffron Walden well over the thirty-five years since moving here. Regularly featuring in the Sunday Times Top Ten Towns, with comments such as “Beautiful market town, timeless good looks and debonair charm”, I wanted to capture and share it with the wider world - the people, the place, buildings, history, indeed anything related to this north Essex town.
This project would take the form of a ‘365’ (one post per day shared on social media). However, little did I realise when I started it in January 2020, that I would soon be enforceably confined within the boundary of the town. As lockdown hit, most of the work disappeared from my diary overnight, and the daily posts for this documentary series became my focus. On reflection, this also helped to preserve my sanity through what was to be an unprecedented year.
Saffron Walden has flourished as a market town since the 13th Century, and is therefore graced with many fine period buildings. Whilst these would often be the backdrop to the life I was documenting, it is people who truly bring anywhere to life. Throughout the year, people became familiar with me being around and about, and grew relaxed with the idea of being caught on camera. It has been, and indeed still is an ongoing series which has provided an even greater sense of connection to a place I call home.
Limited run of 100 hand numbered copies.
210mm x 210mm.
40 pages cover to cover, perfect bound.
170 gsm silk paper, 300 gsm cover with matt laminate.
Published: July 3rd 2021
Sleeves: Regular collectors will be aware supply our zines in protective plastic foils. We've received some feedback indicating that these aren't always wanted, so to avoid adding unnecessary waste to landfill the sleeve will now be optional. The price will remain the same for both options, but please only select it if you plan to retain it. Thank you.
