A wonderful way to see and know a city is to observe it at its leisure pursuits, its special cultural, creative and social activities. During 2017, I was tasked to find Aberdeen at leisure for the photographer Martin Parr. His commission was to take pictures of the things that people do in their own time – the rituals, the friendly communities, and the celebrations of meaningful events. These activities happen perpetually; in the streets and clubs, on the pitch, in gardens, dance halls and parks. They are what they are. Martin was looking for pictures with colour and narrative. He liked taking risks but was always non-judgmental, aware and positive.
My sense was that he was looking for curious ordinariness; something a bit unusual, but essentially normal everyday things. Let me share some of my experiences.
Blackest Black
“ARRRGGGGHHHHHH…UUUHH!” The energy and camaraderie in the Metal gig at the Exodus nightclub was stirring. The young audience gravitated towards the extreme energy and noise as moth to flame – thrilling and comforting. It wasn’t for us to take part; we were observers, but Martin joined the mosh pit for his pictures.
Satin Pink
In the Station Hotel there are many doors and empty spaces, a multitude of corridors and passageways, but to find the masquerade-themed Valentine’s Salsa Party, we just needed to work our way around the hotel, drawn by the pulsating dance rhythm. Martin manoeuvred through the crowd on the smooth ballroom floor, negotiating tight clothing and precise movements.
Hi-Vis & Tartan
The Aberdeen Highland Games in Hazlehead Park found Martin togged up in an orange hi-vis vest and supplied with an extra-special pass. This allowed him Access All Areas inside the main arena fence, right beside the action of the shot-putting, hammer-throwing and the force that was the pipe bands. It was packed with locals and tourists, a big event with lots to see and do, fuelled by Highland doughnuts and coffee. As the day came to an end, all the scheduled sports events were done and an outright winner announced. The gathering closed, complete with a massed pipes and drums parade in drenching rain.
White, Peach & Tan
On a Saturday afternoon in July, a young woman was just starting out on the marital path. Her hen shine with her friends and her mother was out driving round the city centre in a white Hummer Daddy. The stretch limo drew up, the door slid open, “Hello, ladies!” said Martin and jumped in, off they went. He was gone, for a while.
Silver Granite
Finding the Scottish country dancing at Craigiebuckler Church Hall was easy. We just followed the sound of the accordion music into the hall, where the dancing was already well into its strict formations. It was good to be here for the dancing, the sharing of food and the friendly welcome. “It’s a great thing for folk, keeps us healthy in mind and spirit. We’ll see you at the bowling as well,” they said.
Those weekends and events spent with Martin from February to August in Aberdeen were enlightening, as they showed us a city full of life, creativity and motivation, having fun, feeling good and being with one another. Our searching, findings and encounters allowed us to experience things which were unique but also in essence universal. Each picture taken shows a particular moment that we can all relate to in some way from our own personal passions and experiences.
Thank you to the people of Aberdeen.
Iain Irving, Producer: Aberdeen at Leisure
Iain Irving 