We featured the work of photographer, Robert Hughes back in April 2013’s Focus. His documentary photography depicting the everyday life of Abergavenny’s Livestock Market has been collected into a book. Here, Robert tells us about it in his own words.
“It all started in September 2010 when I decided to visit the local livestock market in Abergavenny with the aim of photographing characters. It soon became clear that the market was a great place for photography due to the character of the buildings and the farmers who visited the site.
One of my biggest tests was capturing the essence of the Cafe, which was always busy selling hot mugs of drinks along with Bacon Butties and of course the Full English and I can vouch it was always welcome during the cold winter months!
Over the next few years I visited the market at different seasons and photographed specific sales such as the Welsh Black Show and Sale, which used to be held in December along with various sheep breed sales. During auctions I was kept on my toes and had to be careful I didn’t come away with some livestock! The market closed in November 2013 and at that point I had quite a photographic record of its last years. I then realised that it was an historical record of a bygone era and was worthy of a book.
Twelve months on and, with much editing, the book has become a reality and is now available for purchase.
End of an Era – Abergavenny Livestock Market can be purchased from: Robert Hughes LRPS on Phone 01291 690472. @ £20 plus £2.50 p/p and from Bookish – Crickhowell, Stephens Bookshop – Monmouth, Abergavenny Museum and Craft Renaissance – Kemeys Commander.”
Win A Copy of ‘End of an Era – Abergavenny Livestock Market’!
We have a copy of Roger’s Book – hot off the press – to give away. To win it, simply send an email to info@abergavennyfocus.co.uk and tell us what you like about the Focus! We’ll announce the winner next month.
