The Peckham Family Album

'According to the C15th Humanist ideal, a public square was a civilising influence. A space:
‘where young men may be diverted from the mischievousness and folly of their age, and, under handsome porticos, old men may spend the heat of the day, and be mutually serviceable to one another.’.
(Leon Battista Alberti 1452.)

Looking back, the Peckham Family Album tried to record some moments when, by encouraging contact between people, our Square did its bit for civilisation.
The regeneration of Peckham Canal Head in 1994/5, with its canopied all-weather outdoor studio, made this project irresistible. Meanwhile the post-industrial dereliction of the site was being replaced by new civic amenities, including a new pool, gym and a library which was to win the Sterling Prize. It therefore seemed important to chronicle this changing space, and the fact that Peckham was becoming one of the most multi-cultural places on Earth. After twenty five years of global wars and famine, it still is.
Passers-by were simply asked if they would like to be photographed for non-commercial documentary purposes. There was no obligation to provide names, but most did. There were very few negative responses. Most people understood the point, or saw it as a bit of fun on a Saturday afternoon. Undoubtedly, wielding a ‘wedding’ camera and being part of a team helped win confidence. Thanks again Jo.
People were not directed or posed. There wasn’t time. And it became obvious fairly soon that the most interesting images were made when people were still uncertain about the whole deal – as well they might be. The indecisive moment between suspicion and trust often provided the most intriguing responses.
The generosity, tolerance and patience of the people seemed fathomless. Their willingness to cooperate radiated a kind of freedom which filled the space, and became worth recording for its own sake, as simply as possible.
Sharing this degree of trust became habit-forming, and kept us coming back for more. The project became less of a demographic survey and more like a warm bath of Humanity. It seemed, at the time, that the ideal of the public square was being met.
However, the local council now has other ideas, and is about to demolish the arch in favour of retail outlets and expensive housing units which many local people will not be able to afford.

If anyone sees themselves in this book, please make contact.'