There’s nothing like attaching a number to something to really give you a sense of how quickly time flies, especially if a particular event. Which is why I’m not a big fan of birthdays.
So it stopped me a little in my tracks recently when I got chatting with local journo Erica Roffe about the 15th Anniversary of the Bedford cultural newzine - The Bedford Clanger, where I had been the inaugural photographer.
©ShaunArmstrong2011 - Front Cover Image - Bedford Clanger - Issue No1 - June 2011
Erica will no doubt write a much more eloquent summary of events, but my abiding memory was a chat in Bedford Park, probably April/May 2011 while her two young twins ran around with much gusto, being pitched the idea of ‘doing the photography’ for this new publication, which would focus on stories about not just what was going on in Bedford, but the businesses and movers/shakers that were part of the vibrant community making the difference. The concept was not just another list of stuff, but her writing and an aesthetic that was more ‘Guardian Supplement’. So large, unique and artful imagery would be a big part. As well as fresh design from brilliant local artist Marissa Straccia. Nice.
The Bedford Clanger went from strength to strength in printed broadsheet format and whilst it has evolved in terms of size, format and content, as audience and tech dictated over these 15 (sigh) years, I enjoyed working with Erica and Marissa for well over a year until I let the opportunity move to other ‘young’ volunteer photographers, meeting and creating portraits of local entrepreneurs and, if I do say so myself, creating some imagery I’m still proud of today.
So, here is a bit of a highlight selection. I’m also sure some of these fresh faces may strike a chord with many local people around Bedford, seeing them again after 15 years…if you don’t know who they are. Ask Erica!
All images ©ShaunArmstrong. Credit @ShaunArmstrong