Local snappers have their hour at Clocktower show

Pic: Jan Podsiadly

The Croydon Clocktower cafe is exhibiting the work of local photographers as part of a new series of shows by borough arts champion Click Clock.

The Croydon Clocktower cafe is exhibiting the work of local photographers as part of a new series of shows by borough arts champion Click Clock.

The free gallery lets visitors admire a variety of images from raw shots of urban Croydon to whimsical, hazy bird snaps and playful compositions.

Proprietor John Reeve told EastLondonLines: “It’s really important that Croydon residents have a place to exhibit their art. It’s working tremendously well – over the past few weeks 47 pieces have sold.”

“Although it’s a recession, it’s not all doom and gloom.”

Reeve took over the gallery last year when the council cut its funding, and now works to ensure Croydon artists a chance to exhibit their work.

Reeve said he takes joy in receiving portfolios from Croydon residents and welcomes new submissions, “Its great to get the younger community involved in the exhibitions – so they can see their work on the walls and think, wow, that’s my art!” he said.

Croydon MP Gavin Barwell, who will visit the Clocktower on March 9, also praised the cafe.

Jan Podsiadly, a photographer and Croydon resident for 30 years, provides an insight into Croydon life with his urban scenes.

He said: “My photographs are not intended to look ‘gritty’. I just want to create a realistic representation of Croydon. I love photographing the places and people of the town – it’s a great multicultural, diverse place and has a fabulous visual.”

“The stereotypical view that it is unpleasant is old – you can find many interesting, exciting things in Croydon. You just have to look.”

He says the Clocktower has been a valuable platform to exhibit his work and give people an insight into the town.

The photographs are priced at around £15 – £20 each.

Upcoming exhibitions include international cartoon artist Colin Earl, whose work will be exhibited in the Clocktower cafe from Monday March 5.

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