I have been wanting to visit borough market and the surrounding area for some time now. it did not disappoint! with its eclectic ambience, array of smells and amazing food, I fell in love. tucked underneath the overpass and wedged in by surrounding buildings, cafes and shops, it thrives. it bustles with activity, moving to its own rhythm. the kindness and hospitality of local vendors only adds to its unique charm.
when I found out I would be living in london I was over the moon excited to finally have a chance to explore a city I had passed through so many times since childhood. despite my numerous short jaunts, I never had a real opportunity to see what london had to offer, to explore every nook, to photograph the diverse people that embody this thriving city, to slowly inhale all of it at my own pace. I was ready. I was eager.
fast forward six months, when we finally had settled in to our new home and routine, corona decides to take over the world and dismantle all my plans. into our quaint home we went and shut ourselves away from the rest of the world.
luckily this planet is inhabited by crazy smart and selfless people who have devoted their lives to helping fight the good fight and bring back normalcy. thank you scientists and medical professionals, I am in awe of you all.
going out and photographing for an afternoon was, I reluctantly admit, strange and uncomfortable at first. the fear is still strong, the guard is still up, the caution and reluctance to be near people still prevails. but even while sporting my mask, with my camera in hand, I forgot for one brief moment that corona even existed. what made this moment even better was the ability to share it with a new friend and fellow photographer, rebecca honeycutt photography. trying to make friends in a new country is hard enough let alone in a pandemic. I consider myself very lucky to have not only met someone funny and sweet, but incredibly talented.
trying to get your creative brain to function on a subconscious level is like riding a bike. the first few tries are shaky but eventually you are coasting. I am looking forward to a few more shaky rides and hopefully I will be coasting in no time.
at the end of our wandering we stumbled upon an old grave site turned into a garden of remembrance named cross bones. it was where deceased prostitutes were discarded back in the 1800s. residents of the area have created a shrine of remembrance for those forgotten ladies of the night.
excited for the next week when I can do this all again with my new cohort. where do you think we should go next?