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Artist Sketches Fish & Chip Shops: A British Icon Celebrated
3 Jul
Summary
- An artist is sketching fish and chip shops along the East Coast.
- The project celebrates British working-class communities and food.
- An exhibition of the work will be held at Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre.
Artist Paul Digby has embarked on a project to sketch fish and chip shops stretching along Britain's East Coast, from Northumberland to East Anglia. This endeavour is a tribute to the quintessential British favourite, celebrating working-class communities and their cherished culinary staple.
In collaboration with poet Ian McMillan, Digby has visited twelve restaurants, with plans for one more visit in Great Yarmouth, Norfolk. Their combined artistic efforts will be showcased in an exhibition at the Grimsby Fishing Heritage Centre, scheduled to run from January 16 to May 3 next year.
Digby notes the strong connection people have with fish and chips, describing it as a 'religion' in some areas, though he acknowledges the survival challenges many shops face due to rising costs. He emphasized the project's goal of community engagement, inspired by the diverse stories shared during his visits.
Poet Ian McMillan has contributed a sonnet about fish and chips, which has resonated particularly with children, sparking curiosity about regional terms like 'bits' for scraps. McMillan highlighted the anticipation as the best part of the fish and chip experience. The exhibition is supported by the National Federation of Fish Fryers and funded by Arts Council England.
