An Edinburgh Napier University photography student has taken inspiration from her great grandparents’ jewellery stall at Glasgow’s renowned Barras markets for her eye-catching Degree Show collection.
23-year-old Rebecca Russell based her project, ‘The Great Glasgow Bazaar’ around today’s stallholders in the city’s East End, capturing them in a style inspired by street photographers such as Vivian Maier.
The fourth-year student, who is from Coatbridge, North Lanarkshire, says her family roots in the marketplace drew her to the idea for the project – which is currently on display at Edinburgh Napier’s Merchiston campus.
She said: “I've always been fascinated by car boot sales and markets. I went to the Barras when I was young – probably about 10-years-old – and photographed it with my first digital camera.
“With this project, I wanted to get to know the communities behind the stalls.
“I felt with the story about my great gran, I instantly had a connection with them. I'd walk in and chat to them – and they were always willing to talk to me.
“I felt it was important that I get to know the stallholders a bit before taking the photos. At first I was extremely anxious, as these people are just trying to make a living and I wasn't sure how they would respond.
“When I'd tell them what I was doing, they were excited. They'd point across the road and shout 'go get a photo of him too!', stuff like that.
“It's like a family. Not even just the traders, the people who go to spend time there. Everyone there is so close.”
An extra connection between Rebecca’s 2023 Degree Show exhibition and the Barras is hidden in the display – the photo frames came from one of the market stands.
“I saw them there one day and realised they would be great for the project,” Rebecca added. “I wanted to create that vibe of non-uniformity.”
She says the chance to capture these shots has been a highlight of her time on Edinburgh Napier’s BA Photography programme.
“I've always had a camera in my hands. I started with an early iPod touch and have done it ever since.
“I was too nervous to take photography seriously at school, but it’s been great to have the opportunity to do it here.”
Showcasing work from students at the School of Arts and Creative Industries, the 2023 Degree Show runs at Edinburgh Napier University’s Merchiston campus runs until 8pm on 1 June.