In My Space: Erin Pask
We often embarked on creative challenges to keep the creative spark alive which then feeds back into our regular work. This is a historic brief titled ‘In My Space’ to capture some photos of where we live, where we work, or somewhere that feels like our own space, and Erin has kindly let me share this from the archives. She says, “I reflected on the area in which I grew up, Stoke-on-Trent, and realised it has had an effect on who I am and the things I enjoy.” She goes on to tell us about ‘Stokie life’.
Stoke-on-Trent is known as the home of the pottery industry, with over 300 years of ceramic-making across the six towns. There now remains only a handful of working pottery factories in Stoke, with many of the towns falling into economic decline. I wanted to create a photography project that reflects on what life is like in Stoke-on-Trent now and how some of the remaining industrial areas appear today. Looking at the reflection in the photo above, you can imagine how the kiln may have looked in its prime, with the reality of today’s abandoned junkyard hidden from view. Although now derelict, these kiln sites are beacons of what the city once was, reminding locals of the vibrant and creative industry that once boomed here.
From my personal perspective, I have witnessed a lot of social and political tensions in the towns. With an ever-growing need for affordable housing and funding cuts to mental health services, residents can feel stuck in their situations. Alternatively, I have also seen a real sense of community here, with many charities doing great work to support those in need. I feel that there is a real loyalty among Stokies, there are lots of people paving the way for a brighter future for Stoke-on-Trent and I’m excited to see what it holds. When times are tough, pop the kettle on and grill up some oatcakes!
There are elements of artwork and creativity all over the towns. I particularly love how agencies like We Are Culla are brightening up abandoned buildings with impressive murals, injecting back some of the residual creativity the towns once had.
There are still some nice examples of typography and painted signage which I aimed to capture in some of the photography.
Stoke-on-Trent is part of the West Midlands and has an extensive canal system which makes for some lovely walks. The pottery sites by the canals have even been featured on BBC’s Peaky Blinders.
I have found that there is noticeable contrast between areas of beauty and areas of destruction. With the Peak District right on our doorstep, it doesn’t take long to be surrounded by open fields, hills and moorlands. There are some beautiful parks and lakes nestled into Stoke whilst simultaneously hosting some of the most run-down pockets of Staffordshire. I think growing up in a working class area with access to the great outdoors has allowed me to appreciate these open green spaces even more and I find I often want to include these natural elements in my own designs and illustrations.
Stokies are quite often thought of as the most friendly people, anyone will chat to anyone. Whilst taking my photos I was stopped by Lewis and Luke, who were intrigued as to what I was doing and stopped to say hello. I think there may be some places where it is unusual to talk to a stranger in the street, but not in Stoke-on-Trent!
Not to mention the strong Stoke accent which can be identified from the classic pronunciation test of ‘book’ (buke), ‘look’ (luke) and ‘cook’ (cuke)!
“Cost kick a bo agen a wo and yed it til it bosts?”
Something identifiable about Stoke is the rows of red brick terraced houses. There are lots of people living in close parameters, which can come with its own issues. From an aesthetic point of view, I love the rows of chimneys and the symmetry of streets like this.
Last but not least, I have to make a special mention of Staffordshire oatcakes, the city’s pride and joy! You would have to travel far and wide to find a Stokie who doesn’t love this North Staffordshire delicacy, which can be eaten for breakfast, dinner or tea!
