Photographic project to recreate 1888 Shrewsbury photo collection
A new arts project which will showcase some fascinating photographs of historic Shrewsbury next to pictures of the town today has been launched.
The initiative is the brainchild of local photographer Paola Alessandri-Gray who has uncovered an amazing collection of images taken 124 years ago.
They were taken in 1888 by 25-year-old Joseph Lewis Della Porta who carried out a photographic survey of Shrewsbury shops, taking almost 100 pictures of individual businesses with staff standing proudly in front of the windows.
Paola explained: “Mr Della Porta ran a department store in town that was to trade independently for 120 years and he was also a keen amateur photographer and an early member of Shrewsbury Photographic Society.
“I uncovered this fantastic collection whilst working with the Museum Service and as a local photographer interested in producing contemporary art that relates to our heritage, I have launched a project that will bring Mr Della Porta’s 19th century pictures side by side with new photographs of independent shops in Shrewsbury.
“The intention is to gather all pictures both old and new in an exhibition, publication and website.”
Working with retail group Shop in the Loop Paola will approach all independent shops in town to ask whether they would like to take part in the project.
Shop in the Loop chairman Phil Freeman commented: “I hope the idea will be inspiring and intriguing and we will get a positive response from as many retailers as possible.”
Anyone needing more information can contact paola.alessandri@talktalk.net or 07944 492581
One of the old photos taken in 1888 of a proud shop owner
A 2012 photograph taken by Paola of staff at C R Birch & Son in Roushill
