HS2 progress, Curzon Street, Birmingham 2024

The HS2 construction is transforming the landscape around the Curzon Street building.  Once this was a sleepy backwater and a relatively quiet part of Birmingham.  However first came Millennium Point and then the ThinkTank museum. Then HS2 rolled into town.  Birmingham City University also moved location so that they were near to the station.  This series of pictures provides a construction update of the area and the viaducts that will carry the trains into the station which are starting to appear.  The area around the Birmingham canal allows a view of the enormous construction taking place. 

HS2 progress, Curzon Street, Birmingham 2024
Back in 2013 the scene was very quiet then before construction began.

HS2 progress, Curzon Street, Birmingham 2024
Life goes on around the HS2 changes.
HS2 progress, Curzon Street, Birmingham 2024
Curzon street is quiet for now. This will be a busy station thoroughfare in the future.
HS2 progress, Curzon Street, Birmingham 2024
The scene from the canal onto the City.

A few interesting stories developed whilst I was taking pictures.  I added to my 100 strangers project whilst  I was walking around the perimeter of the HS2 development works. As I was taking pictures over the canal bridge looking towards the new viaducts for the trains, I met Mace who was from London. He was on a stopover in Birmingham on his journey to Scotland.  He immediately engaged me in conversation and was a lively personality.  After discussing the state of play of the HS2 and Birmingham, he willingly posed for my 100 strangers’ project.  (More of this photographic project at a later date). The sun was out creating lighting difficulties so I asked Mace to stand under the shade.  In the portrait, Curzon street is to the right and the view is down towards the ThinkTank museum and Birmingham City University.  The new Curzon Street station is further down the road.

HS2 progress, Curzon Street, Birmingham 2024
Mace who I met on Curzon Street.

Another interesting finding was that to my surprise I found a narrowboat moored up on the other side of the Curzon Street railway bridge near to the Birmingham Gun Barrell proof house.  It is a rare sight to see canal boats on this stretch of the canal.  However as the area starts to receive more investment then it is likely that such occurrences will be more frequent.

HS2 progress, Curzon Street, Birmingham 2024
A narrowboat tied up near to the Curzon Rail bridge overlooks the City

One of my photography projects is to photograph the changes occurring in other places of the HS2 development. You may wish to view the changes to 16 acre wood near Berkswell.

Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024

The IgersbirminghamUK Icons walk started with a torrential downpour of rain. We met at the Five ways roundabout where we managed to shelter from the rain until we were brave enough to walk down Broad Street.  The rain had created many excellent photographic opportunities including people with umbrellas concentrating on avoiding the large puddles.  

Auchinleck
Reflections of the International Convention Centre, Centenary Square.

The underpass at Five Ways is a busy thoroughfare with both people and delivery bikes moving around.  If you stay still then you immediately look suspicious. There was a brief plan of where our walk would take us. The idea was to walk down Broad Street to Centenary Square with a short detour to Oozells Square. From then on we would visit two more squares, Chamberlain and Victoria with our final destination being the Colmore where we could discuss our photographs over a well-earned drink. I have grouped my pictures into several themes.

People

Broad street is always great for street photography with pedestrians undertaking different activities. They may be waiting for the trams or making their way to the theatres and concert halls. There is always the odd surprise such as the suited and booted men on scooters.  Surprisingly they were not wearing helmets!  Even the cyclist, I captured was not wearing one.  The health and safety part of me has seen the results of people not wearing crash helmets.  One of my favourites photographs was the picture of two women outside the Library of Birmingham practicing their hip hop dance moves in the window reflections. Other people looked very glum about the weather.

Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Sharing an umbrella in Broad Street
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Suited and booted
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Cycling Broad Street with the Octagon in the background.
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Practicing hip hop dance moves.
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Only the lonely

Signs

Letters are everywhere and a few caught my eye.  Popworld was hosting a party and Ozzie was getting wet.  There were signs of the cost of living crisis with unopened cans of food left on a bench.  A story within a story, as the unopened cans sit on a bench near to the luxury five ways hotel where people can take a Rockstar taxi into the city. Head over to #igbk_meet_icons where one of our photographers focused on the lettering he encountered during our walk.

130406_365_Steps and candles, White Palace
Ozzy’s signature
130406_365_Steps and candles, White Palace
Popworld
130406_365_Steps and candles, White Palace
Taxi rank on cobbled stones
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Contrasts with tins of food and taxis

Icons

There are so many icons on the route and the Black Sabbath bridge over the Birmingham Canals is deserving of your attention.  In Centenary Square, there was the obligatory shot of the golden boys statue.  The Birmingham family holds a central position in the square and divides popular opinion. My picture shows that the overriding message is about love.  The Iron:man by Antony Gormley regularly gets photographed as it is placed at the intersection of many walkways including the tram stop and Town Hall.  Finally the Birmingham icon, Benjamin Zachariah, is the subject of an exhibition of his life and works.  The pictures and living history of this influential poet and writer are set up near to the New Street entrance to Victoria Square. Biodiversity bear has also taken up residence in the same area. This is a busy place with the trams passing by in their distinguished blue livery.

130406_365_Steps and candles, White Palace
The Birmingham family is about love.
130406_365_Steps and candles, White Palace
The Golden Boys
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Pictures of Iron:man
130406_365_Steps and candles, White Palace
Victoria Square Icons

Architecture

Birmingham is noted for its brutalist history and love of concrete.  The start of our walk at the Auchinleck walkway provides an example of this.  However spirits are raised when walking towards Field Marshall Auchinleck’s statue and down Broad Street.   The high rise living apartments dwarf the street level buildings and lights.  Older buildings fight for space with the newer blocks of architecture. Oozells Square still has presence, even though it is most famous for two weeks of the year when the cherry trees blossom.  The reflective pool in Centenary Square was clear of any activity and with the recent rain, the classic picture of the Rep, Library and Hall of Remembrance was taken. A new icon, the Octagon, is rising in the background. The approach to Chamberlain square has a certain grandeur as the buildings on either side guide you to the Council House with the Chamberlain clock and the 103 Colmore Row skyscraper in the background.  The security were kind to us and we were able to take photos on this privately owned part of Birmingham without hassle. Reaching Victoria square there is a mixture of construction and exhibitions taking place. Local Brummies will quip, “Birmingham will be good when it is finished”.

Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
The brutalist architecture of Auchinleck underpass at Five Ways
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
View of the top of Broad Street.
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
The old and the new.
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Classic view of Oozells Square.
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Reflections of some Birmingham Icons.
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
The approach to Chamberlain Square
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Victoria Square and the Benjamin Zachariah exhibition.
Birmingham Icons walk, IgersbirminghamUK, July 2024
Tram lights
There were signs of the cost of living crisis with unopened cans of food left on a bench.  A story within a story as the unopened cans sit on a bench near to the luxury five ways hotel where people can take a Rockstar taxi. 
A regular sight on the streets of Birmingham.

At the Colmore, we had great discussions about our pictures including those that got away.  As we left the pub on our way home, the night was coming down allowing the neon lights to feature more in our pictures. The big wheel by the Cathedral invited us to take a few final pictures and then we caught the train home.

There were signs of the cost of living crisis with unopened cans of food left on a bench.  A story within a story as the unopened cans sit on a bench near to the luxury five ways hotel where people can take a Rockstar taxi. 
Lights from the window.

If you liked these pictures and want to know more about IgersbirminghamUK then please follow us on Instagram. Here is a previous blog describing another of our recent Birmingham walks.

The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024

The Floodgate featured in one of my favourite pictures which was taken in Floodgate street during the early hours of morning.  Although I had never been inside the venue, I have passed the front entrance on many occasions during my photographic visits to Digbeth.  When I heard that The Floodgate was closing then I knew that I had to photograph the place before it closed.  On a Friday afternoon, which was the penultimate day of the venue being open, I ventured into the place and brought a drink at the bar.  I asked the staff whether I could take photographs of the inside and they kindly said that I could go ahead. So a big thank you to them for this blog.  

The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
Baseball cages
The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
The Floodgate Raceway
The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
Beth who works at the Floodgate with artwork in the background.

The Floodgate is one large games entertainment venue with curling, baseball, table golf and model car racing amongst the sports that punters can take part in.  I met Beth who worked in the Floodgate.  Beth explained that the Floodgate was closing due to the sky-high rent.  When Beth told me the figures that they were being charged for rent then it is no surprise that independents are struggling.  Digbeth is undergoing changes and the early success of independents has attracted larger businesses who want a slice of the action. Digbeth is becoming a very popular part of Birmingham (if it was not popular already).  There are plans for several high rise residences to be built in the vicinity.  Many of the old warehouses and industrial units are being earmarked for demolition with a complete revamp of the area planned.  Already the Boxpark franchise will be pumping 5 million pounds under the nearby railway arches that will create bars and restaurants.  The independents have difficulty in matching this sort of investment.  

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The Floodgate had only just opened for the evening and apart from a few customers playing curling, I had the place to myself for taking pictures.   The Floodgate has one large bar area situated in the main warehouse.  Table tops are in the form of baseballs and colourful murals adorn the walls. There are baseball cages and an impressive model car racing track.  The latter has a set of seats complete with steering wheels where people can control the model cars they see in front of them around the track. 

The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
You never know who you will meet in the dark
The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
With a little help from my friends
The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
Hole 18 – Table Golf
The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
The Trotter’s car and other lights.

 Leading off from the main warehouse, there are two games areas . The walls are covered with colourful graffiti art that glows in the UV light.  The area is a psychedelic experience and the Jimi Hendrix song Purple Haze came to mind. I enjoyed taking pictures with both my cameras, the Fujifilm x100vi and my iPhone.  This is where the new Fujifilm with IBIS worked well.  Such pictures taken in low light with this camera would have been impossible without a tripod in the past.  The iPhone is well known for its low light photography,  The curling lanes were surrounded by lights and a ceiling of springs.  The table golf set up looked impressive when set against the graffiti. The area was a little spooky with no people present. Beth did tell me that there were stories about ghosts in the warehouse and occasionally I felt a presence as I wandered around the darkly lit areas of the table golf rooms.

The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
Outside Curling
The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
Glory Days
The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
NHS Angel wings in the light
The Closing of the Floodgate, Digbeth, July 2024
Under the arches

The outside area has more curling lanes and baseball cages that are set against a backdrop of the towering railway arches.  The cameras now had to deal with strong light and harsh shadows as for once it was not raining.

My final shot was of Beth and other staff in the bar area.  It is sad to see such places closing but I guess this is progress.  The early charm of Digbeth with venues taking advantage of the old industrial warehouses is slowly disappearing.  The Floodgate is an example of creating different types of entertainment.  Such places will disappear and be replaced with new shiny establishments that will cater for most of the new residents that will be entering Digbeth.

My final shot was of Beth and other staff in the bar area.  It is sad to see such places closing but I guess this is progress.  The early charm of Digbeth with venues taking advantage of the old industrial warehouses is slowly disappearing.  The Floodgate is an example of creating different types of entertainment.  Such places will disappear and be replaced with new shiny establishments that will cater for most of the new residents that will be entering Digbeth.
Beth with the Floodgate bar in the background
My final shot was of Beth and other staff in the bar area.  It is sad to see such places closing but I guess this is progress.  The early charm of Digbeth with venues taking advantage of the old industrial warehouses is slowly disappearing.  The Floodgate is an example of creating different types of entertainment.  Such places will disappear and be replaced with new shiny establishments that will cater for most of the new residents that will be entering Digbeth.
Floodgate Street

If you enjoyed this blog then please take a look at my other Digbeth entries starting with Digbeth Art from July 2020

Norwich Cathedral and the Close, June 2024

The close is a small village of houses within Norwich Cathedral walls.  The area is also home to Norwich School and during the day there is an influx of tourists who visit both the Cathedral and the Close. My school friend, Tim, lives in one of the Cottages in the Close.   It was a good to catch up with Tim who I had only seen once since we both left school and went our separate ways over 40 years ago.  As I wished to see the Time Horizon installation at Houghton Hall, a stop over at Norwich looked a good idea. 

Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
A typical tourist shot of the Ethelbert Gate leading to the Close.
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
So good to see the sun shinning.
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
A picturesque view of part of the Close
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
An afternoon view of the Cathedral.
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
Night view
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
Nearly time for the gates to close
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
People still around in the warm evening.

 I arrived on a glorious sunny afternoon and the Close was busy with people.  In the evening the doors are shut at 10.30pm and at around 9pm the area is relatively quiet.  The next day, I got up early and wandered around the close.  The sun was also rising in the sky and again there were several good photographs amongst the light and the shadows.  I also met Tony was sitting quietly against one of the walls with his lenses pointed up to the spire of the Cathedral.  There are two nesting peregrine falcons and the City news is wrapped up with their well-being.  Last year there were no chicks and this year only one has survived.  The picture shows Tony taking his picture and if you look very closely you can see the young peregrine bird on the masonry. I did not have my long lens so this is a digital zoom.

Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
Early Morning people
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
The gates are open. A view of the cathedral through the Erpingham Gate
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
Tony photographing the peregrine falcons.
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
Into the cloisters.
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
The sun is rising
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
Black and white view of the cloisters
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
A leading line from the Labyrinth in the centre of the cloisters.
Photographing Norwich Cathedral and the Close
Inside the Cathedral

The cloisters were impressive and I learnt that some of the Harry Potter movies were filmed in the cloisters. Also I realised that I missed several opportune views of the cloisters as I read up about Norwich Cathedral after my visit. Furthermore, I did not get the chance to explore other parts of Norwich so another visit beckons.

On a photographic note, I am finding my Fujifilm x100vi is working well now that I have set it up with a back focus button. The IBIS makes the night photography straightforward although I do have to remove the noise in Lightroom for several pictures. I have also purchased a “shimmer” for the lens and this adds an attractive effect when shooting into the sun.

Looking back into my archives and I find that I photographed Cologne back in 2019. As this is another Cathedral City, it is interesting to compare my blog postings over the years.

I also provide a link to the official Norwich Cathedral website.

Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024

I was fortunate to visit Brighton as part of a conference.  My hotel was on the seafront and in between sessions, I was able to head out with my camera and take pictures.  The promenade is great for pictures, as with care and respect, it is possible to get some interesting street photos.  The Lanes is also a good place for street photography.  They are narrow and patches of light are everywhere.  Once again people are accepting of what seems to be tourists taking pictures.  However one person did show their displeasure at my camera being pointed in their direction whilst another passerby complimented me on my Fujifilm.  As I mentioned earlier, take care and try not to harass people. Here are a few pictures taken on the streets suing my stay in Brighton.  I did not hear any sounds such as a Brian May Queen guitar solo whilst I was photographing!

Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Pale body on the beach.
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
At the pier
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Which way now?
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Brighton Cafe
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Brighton rescue
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Beach fun
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Fun on the beach is over
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Underneath the 360
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Watch out for the cyclists
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Entrance to Car Park has classical music on loudspeaker.
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Sights on the streets
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Welcome to the Lanes
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Window shopping in the Lanes
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Open window restaurant
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Late night gourmet food
Brighton, Street Photography, June, 2024
Rise and Shine

Enjoy this blog? Then you might like to see Edinburgh Street Photography.

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024

With the long summer nights upon us, the IgersbirminghamUK team came up with the idea for a photowalk that started at St Paul’s Square and finished at St Philip’s Cathedral. Along the way we could photograph interesting views of Birmingham. The walk went down Ludgate Hill, over the Pedestrian Bridge towards Church Street finally arriving at St Philip’s Square affectionately known by locals as Pigeon Park.  The call went out a week before on social media and on the evening a group of photographers assembled outside St Paul’s Church.  A list of some interesting places and buildings had already been circulated on our social media channels. Many of these suggestions were taken up by our band of photographers. I usually have my iPhone and my Fujifilm x100vi on any city walk. I just find these two cameras so useful to tell the story of the streets as they are easy to carry and use. They also take good pictures.

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The walk started with lovely warm sunshine and St Paul’s Square looked good in the evening light.  As we moved down Ludgate Hill towards the Birmingham Canal, the sky clouded over but it did not stop us taking pictures of our favourite Brummie locations.   

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Steps on the canal

The canal passes underneath the BT tower. There is graffiti and concrete posts yet the canal locks blend in well with the surroundings. Further along, the pedestrian bridge is always a favourite photography location. The light was dimming so it was possible to practice a few long exposures of the traffic passing underneath.  

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As we approached St Philip’s Square along Church Street, we could see the recently installed Big Wheel lit up against the late evening light.  Then came the rain. Just as we reached the square, the heavens opened and we got very wet.  Some of us were fortunate as we had brough a water proof coat or umbrella. Others were less lucky.  We first thought that this was going to be a miserable end to a good evening of photography.  After the initial heavy downpour, we saw that the rain had created reflections on the surrounding pavements. The Big Wheel was lit up in different colours, and the resulting images with the reflections gave a range of interesting effects.  Also people were walking past with umbrellas casting their shadows in the puddles. The picture opportunities were unending. After a while no one minded the rain or the fact that they were soaked through.

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Part of the ramp from the bridge. Not the best part of Brum.

Those of us that were left behind after braving the rain finished our walk at the Wolf pub on Constitution hill. During our well deserved refreshments, the IgersbirminghamUK team planned our next adventure.

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
The Wolf Pub

This are my own pictures from the @IgersbirminghamUK walk. If you want to see the pictures of all the other talented photographers that took part then follow the link #igbUK_meet_sq2park

The walk back from the Wolf pub to Snow Hill station was short but interesting and here is a set of five pictures showing how the light and reflections after the rain can create a wonderful range of colours.

Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Looking across the street at Old Snow Hill
Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Warm lights on Water Street
Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Under the arch
Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Lights and reflections on Lionel Street
Square to Park, IgersbirminghamUK Instameet walk, May 2024
Puddles at Snow Hill Station

If you have got down to here then there are other IgersbirminghamUK meetings to read about on my blog. Enjoy reading about our activities. The team at IgersbirminghamUK look forward to seeing you at one of their future meetings.

Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024

On the Regent’s Canal, sitting outside having lunch at the Ragged museum and life is good.  The sun is shining and sitting back watching people rowing on the Regent’s canal.  This spot in Stepney is a favourite place of mine for photographs.  On the bridge with its spikey railings, one has a wonderful view of Canary Wharf.  The juxtaposition of old versus new is quite dramatic.  Before sitting down for lunch with Peter who was accompanying me on this recent photographic walk, I took a picture down towards Canary Wharf and posted it on BBC Weather watchers.  The picture was featured on the lunchtime news and by then I knew then it was going to be a good day.

Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
On BBC London Lunchtime News
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Under the bridge
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Boats alongside the canal
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Over and under the bridge

Limehouse Basin is always active and with the DLR trains passing overhead and the buses and traffic nearby. the place is buzzing.  We walked around the basin taking pictures of the sights. At one point as Peter was talking, I managed to get his attention and we looked down towards the lock gates.  There was a heron patiently waiting for their catch of the day.  The spot has water rushing in from the basin and this was the place to fish.  Herons are beautiful creatures but lethal predators and several fish were caught whilst we were watching the bird.  The Limehouse basin has everything you wish for in photography. There are reflections, symmetry and colours around the canal basin and we lingered in the area for a time.

Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Boats and trains in Limehouse Basin
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Reflections
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
… and more selections
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
A heron just waiting for the moment.

The basin links with the Thames and the path through the town houses leads to the Canary Wharf estate.  The tide was out and the river bank was accessible so  I went down to the water’s edge and then looked back.  There was a great view of the tall skyscrapers reaching for the sky overlooking the Thames. These high rise buildings reminded me of New Age sentinels that are keeping watch on everyone.  

Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
The skyscrapers of Canary Wharf
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
People living amongst the giants.
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Canary Wharf station
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Red in-between the carriages.

The private owners of Canary Wharf have put much effort in promoting artwork around the site. This is much better than having to look upwards as there is an awful lot of skyscrapers. Whilst some of the architecture did look interesting, there is an overwhelming feeling that the steel and glass is very repetitious.  One of the high points was the “captivated by colour” tunnel designed by Camille Walala which proved to be a great place to take pictures of people.  I stood centrally and lifted by camera up to get some good views of the tunnel. A group of lads came through and had a great time acting up for the camera.

Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Colourful circles
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Time waits for no-one
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
A story in the tunnel

Walking through the estate there were several reflections of the buildings in the water that provided good pictures. I did look up at the occasional skyscraper did catch my attention as seen by my pictures.  Our final destination was a favourite pub of mine, the Gun.  The pub is on the banks of the Thames overlooking the O2 arena.  There is a lot of history attached to this Grade II building not least that Horatio Nelson secretly met his lover Lady Emma Hamilton when he was in London.  We sat down in the outside Gin area and compared notes on our pictures. The view over the O2 arena has changed since I last visited with ugly blocks of flats suddenly appearing and obscuring the view.   A long day walking and taking photographs and yet another chapter to my London Times. Finally a picture of Alfie and Bill who were sitting next to us and asked us for a picture of the two of them. Whilst I had a train to catch, Peter stayed on for the golden hour which is always good with the light catching the glass and water.

Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Motorbiking
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Water and skyscraper reflections
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
The oppressive nature of all the building taking place in Canary Wharf.
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Legs and reflections
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
The Gun
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Alfie and Bill taken at the Gun.
Regents_Canal_Canary_Wharf, May, 2024
Under the flight path

Hope you enjoyed this blog and there are more “London Times” Blog entries and you can start with the one below.

Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.

Leamington Spa has streets of white tall elegant buildings. All are fine examples of Regency architecture. Away from the Regency style avenues, buildings in the old town have become canvases for stunning street art several courtesy of the Brink Leamington Mural festival. The train station is a good starting point for exploring the streets of Leamington being close to the old town and the Grand Union canal. On the corner of Crown Terrace and the High Street, a mural advertising the Brink contemporary arts community is displayed. The cartoon character, Gru supervillain turned secret agent, greets you as your first introduction to the artwork that follows. Street art is always fun to photograph but ensuring the artist is always credited can be a challenge. Therefore if I have missed anyone out, I apologise and refer you onto the Brink Contemporary Arts links including a map of the art work and their Instagram page.

Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Future Synth by Void One
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Royal Leamington Spa by MIG 29
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Phone Home

The street mural next to the rail arches on Clement street is an attention grabber and at the other end near the canal is the Leamington Spa mural. We identified the Micro Pug, a small pub next to the canal, as a good place to visit and started a circular walk back to the pub. Part of our route would take in the Lady of Shrubland Street. This mural reflects the Victorian architecture of nearby Shrubland Street Primary School and was created by Tim Robottam. I have used filters for the colours and a Flickr friend to pose for the picture. The old part of Leamington has streets with character and this mural enhances the look of the area . Near to the mural stands the Green Man pub where the Lenny Henry TV series “Three Little Birds” was filmed.

The circular route back to pub took in the murals around the disused factory area which may be approached via Eagle Recreational Park. The murals line up alongside the Grand Union Canal and the path leads to steps and a footbridge taking you over the canal. As you go up the steps a glance to left reveals the stunning art by the artist N4t4. The canal was busy and a narrowboat passing by the graffiti strewn factory was an added bonus. We headed back to the Micro Pug for a drink and to plan the later part of the day.

Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Canal Boat passing by.
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Figure and face.

We took a general walk through the Regency half of the town. Jephson gardens was looking good in the sun with people enjoying the fine weather. The usual “honey spot” pictures of Jephson Gardens, the Parade and Clarendon Square were taken before finally it was time to go home.

Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Enjoying the water fountains
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Mind your Head
https://damienwalmsley.com/leamington-street-art/
Bridge over the River Leam
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
The architecture of the Royal Priors
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Busy roads in Leamington Spa
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
Phone boxes
Silicon Spa Street sights, Leamington Spa, May 2024.
The beauty of Clarendon Square

I have completed another chapter in my photographic blogs which feature Leamington Spa. My last blog picks up many of the other murals that are present in the town. Finally why the moniker Silicon Spa? The town has exploded in the digital world and is a hub for computer game developers and other computer software programs. The streets maybe lined with code but the artistic community is keeping up by painting the walls with colours.

Finally the “we” and “my Flickr Friend” is JohnBrum69 who kindly guided me around the streets of Leamington.

Dublin City, April 2024

There is always new sights in Dublin even though I have been away for 6 years. The opportunity arose as a conference was held in Dublin and I jumped at the chance to attend. Lisa, my PhD student was presenting and as it happens I gave a presentation on behalf of a colleague who could not make it to the conference. Our conference hotel was in the Liberties and I had not explored this area of Dublin so much in my past visits. I was staying at the Aloft hotel which had some good views over the city from the 7th floor bar.

Dublin City, April 2024
Francis Street in the Liberties
Dublin City, April 2024
Shopping for the Clash back in 1977
Dublin City, April 2024
Whiskey testing at the Dublin Liberties Distillery.

The weather was a mix of sunshine and showers which seems to be the story of our weather for the last 18 months. Dublin City is great for street photography especially around the Temple Bar area. There are so many people taking selfies of each other that no-one seems to care about one more camera on the streets. I also took in Trinity College, Dublin Castle and a few other sites. Trinity was holding a concert and so many of the picturesque views were not possible. Also they have erected a large red box which is called the Book of Kells experience. They are remodelling the old library and how the Book of Kells is viewed, however the red box is an eyesore.

Dublin City, April 2024
Dublin tram meets Dublin bus.
Dublin City, April 2024
“Sphere within a Sphere” by Arnaldo Pomodoro must be one of the most photographed items in Dublin.
Dublin City, April 2024
Not so sure about the outside experience.
Dublin City, April 2024
Colours of the Olympia Cinema.

Whilst in the Temple Bar area, I discovered Love Lane and this hidden gem had lots to photograph. The tiles and messages were great to see and read. The artwork was conceived and installed by Anna Doran. I loved reading all the messages on the tiles and there were even lyrics from one of my favourite bands, Thin Lizzy. I looked up the lyrics to Dublin written by Phil Lynott. The last verse is quite poignant especially as Derby Square was an alleyway off Werburgh Street near to where I stayed.

And at sea with flowing hair
I’d think of Dublin
Of Grafton Street and Derby Square
And those for whom I really care and you

Dublin City, April 2024
Love Lane tiles
Dublin City, April 2024
Admiring the tiles and messages
Dublin City, April 2024
Crampton Court

Dublin City, April 2024
Reflections from Sweeny’s Pharmacy.

This was also a bittersweet photo experience as this is my last time using the FujiFilm x100v. The camera has been by my side for the last 4 years and I am now moving on to its successor. The camera has served me well as many of the pictures in this post testify.

Dublin City, April 2024
View of a Dublin morning from the Aloft Hotel.

I have pictures from my 2018 visit for you to see and compare. Following this there is a link to the Dublin Liberties Distillery.

Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024

London is an ideal place for urban photography as it offers so many different places that offer variety.  There are several large-scale cityscape vistas which sit with the smaller scale scenes taking in street art and street photography.  The start of my recent photo walk with colleague Peter Thompson was the Angel, Islington and from here we accessed the Regent’s canal. A link to this part of my photo walk is below.  Leaving the canal we moved around Shoreditch taking in some of the street art and catching people interacting with their urban surroundings.  Architecture was another focus of my lens.  Finally we finished off at Horizon22 which is also covered in a separate blog entry.  So sit back and be prepared for a roller coaster of pictures from my walk in Shoreditch. (All pictures taken on my Fujifilm x100v)

Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Two is company, three is a crowd. (Street scene in Islington)
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Street Market, Islington.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Love those old Toby jugs.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Telephone boxes
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Broken telephone boxes
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Inside a telephone box.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Street art with human interaction.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Transport catches up.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Taking time out.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Scary.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Conversation at the traffic lights.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Bull in a China shop.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
I do like this one!
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Powerful street art.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Incredible architecture.
Two churches and one bridge
Start at Birmingham Cathedral and take pictures inside then move down church street towards the pedestrian bridge over Queensway then make our way up Bennett's hill to St Paul's church and pictures inside the church there.  I will see if we can get access into both places.  What do you think?  Based on the following.

Andy Street says. "I’m pledging to launch an international architectural competition to build a NEW BRIDGE connecting the Jewellery Quarter & Colmore Row .  The link between two of Brum’s best areas isn’t good enough, we have to deliver an accessible link that celebrates the city’s heritage."
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/competition-fix-rickety-old-city-28913191
Little Red Riding Hood.
Two churches and one bridge
Start at Birmingham Cathedral and take pictures inside then move down church street towards the pedestrian bridge over Queensway then make our way up Bennett's hill to St Paul's church and pictures inside the church there.  I will see if we can get access into both places.  What do you think?  Based on the following.

Andy Street says. "I’m pledging to launch an international architectural competition to build a NEW BRIDGE connecting the Jewellery Quarter & Colmore Row .  The link between two of Brum’s best areas isn’t good enough, we have to deliver an accessible link that celebrates the city’s heritage."
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/competition-fix-rickety-old-city-28913191
Light and shadows by Liverpool Street station.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
A lone figure in Liverpool Street station.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Bishopsgate
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
More views of Bishopsgate.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Decisions, decisions.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Reflections and a selfie.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Happy hour.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Icing sugar window.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Cash only.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Street art.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Street car.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Elephants.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Where does it all go?
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Not happy.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Black and White Cityscape.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Colourful buildings.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Colourful railings.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Watching.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Sunglasses in Brick lane.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Picture perfect.
Walking the streets of Shoreditch, London, March 2024
Pictures on a wall.

You made it to here and your reward are links to my other recent London Times postings.

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