Stoke- On- Trent: A Place of Beauty?... By Josie La Torre

'Stoke- On- Trent train station glistening in the sunlight'. Arriving by train to Stoke- On- Trent, provided me with an intial impression of the town. As displayed by the photograph, the structure of the train station builiding is very grand with authentic red brick providing bold but rustic colouring. My first impression of Stoke, created by the train station, was that of a historical place.

'The Local Bargain Booze'. Upon arriving at Stoke, it was clear that the town has a prevalent multicultural society. I like the idea of contrast in this photograph and how it can raise different questions. Also, in my opinion, 'Bargain Booze' creates a demeaning image of the town.

'Reflection of Beauty'. Walking along the Hanley Canal allowed me to grasp a better image of what Stoke provides with it's physical landscape. The surrounding landscapes did not display areas of outstanding aesthetic quality as Stoke is masked with grim industrial estates and undeveloped land. However, the swan and reflection i captured in the water was a lovely distraction from all the unnatural sights around me.  

'Stuck in Time'. When exploring the different towns of Stoke- On- Trent, it was obvious that many places are in need of redevelopment. For a town which promotes itself on the cultural attraction of ceramics I expected more aesthetic appeal from the architecture and landscapes; however, the towns seem to be stuck in time. They resemble 'ghost towns' as there are hardly any people about, which in turn prevents Stoke- On- Trent from moving forward visually.     

'Public Transport'. The use of flash in this photograph has really captured the bleak atmosphere of this bus station. The neutral colours of the ceiling, floor and even people's clothes blend drastically together and echo the cold conditions of the day. The north is very cold. 

'Abandoned in the Alley'. This is a representation of my thoughts about Stoke- On- Trent, abandoned. Stoke is enriched with culture and blessed with history. It has the potential of being a pleasant looking place but has no motivation to maintain its historical attractions.

For me, this was the negative aspect of my visit to Stoke- On- Trent. The sheer depression of a town begging to be reborn. A town which could remain doomed due to lack of attention and historical style.

Josie La Torre