Islanders, 2026

‘Islanders’ (2026) is a topographical series of portraits of the colourful and quirky vendors that operate throughout the Jersey Central Market and Fish Market in my home island of Jersey. I was commissioned by ArtHouse Jersey in partnership with the Creative Island Partnership and Jersey Markets to undertake a three month artist residency, working from a photo studio I built in the fish market, where I individually photographed the markets vendors, many of whom operate small and independent businesses which have operated within the markets for several generations. The ‘original’ Jersey Market was established in 1500’s in open air within Royal Square. It continued here until its relocation to the current site in 1796. The Central Market was established in its current location in Jersey in 1803, some of its original iron gates are still in use today. Between 1881-1882 there was a Victorian transformation of the market which gives the structures and facades their unique artisan characteristics. The Fish Market adjacent to the Central Market was built in 1841 and rebuilt in 1972. During the occupation of Jersey (1940-1945), the market played a central role in the supply chain of food on the island, despite the shortages the island was experiencing. My great-grandparents lived through this period, and we bought wreaths from a Central Market florist upon their deaths. These static and understated portraits provide an insight into the working community of the local markets, whose presence represents a continuing lineage of experience and history and the passing of knowledge and skills through generations. In recent years, whilst the market has retained its traditional ethos of promoting Jersey farmed produce, florists and groceries, it has continued to evolve and adapt to the changing retail landscape; now promoting a wide variety of shops including crafts, music, bakeries and restaurants that reflect the cultural diversity of Jersey and its people.