Art / Photography

Capturing life on Gloucester Road through the decades

By Betty Woolerton  Monday Aug 22, 2022

A university graduate has created an online photography project capturing shopkeepers on Gloucester Road.

Rea Sachdeva was inspired by the discovery of photos of independent businesses on the street from the 1970’s.

About the project, called Stories from Gloucester Road, she said: “Since moving to Bristol, I have been in awe of the magic that Gloucester Road contains.

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“Each business is so vibrant and unique and it has been so heartening to witness so many individuals make a living out of what they love and care about. I was determined to capture as many stories from this road as I could before I moved out of Bristol.

She added: “The shots discovered from the 1970s only prove how Gloucester Road has always been rich with life.

“The conversations I’ve had have really inspired me to continue to buy from local and independent businesses as even the little shops can make such a difference to business owners and to supporting our local community.

“I hope you feel the same and we can continue to keep the independent spirit of Gloucester Road alive.”

Here are just some of the photos, spanning the last four decades:

Stories from Gloucester Road captures life on the street from the 1970s to the present – photo: Lucas Arthur

Rea’s friend discovered photos of independent businesses on Gloucester Road from the 1970s – photo: Lucas Arthur

This Gloucester Road grocery store was photographed 40 years ago – photo: Lucas Arthur

Grape and Grind specialises in wine, beer, cider, spirits and coffee from around the world – photo: Rea Sachdeva

La Ruca is a family run cafe bar, and health shop – photo: Rea Sachdeva

Father and son duo Paul and Adam own the Express Shoe Repairs shop – photo: Rea Sachdeva

Owner Sam of The Full Basket – photo: Rea Sachdeva

The Fish Shop specialises in south coast dayboat fish and seafood.- photo: Rea Sachdeva

To see more of the project, visit: Stories of Gloucester Road

Main photo: Rea Sachdeva

Read more: Your chance to own a celebrity artwork from Grayson’s Art Club exhibition for just £5

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