Glasgow has changed beyond recognition since the late 1950’s, as skillfully captured in more than 3,500 photographs taken by the late, amateur photographer Eric Watt. A new book Coming Into View: Eric Watt’s Photographs of Glasgow is an evocative collection of almost 100 images, revealing different aspects of the city he grew up in, through a period of great change. The book, which introduces one of Scotland’s greatest, yet largely unknown, practitioners of Scottish street photography will be launched on 31 October.
Eric Watt’s first job was Quality Controller of Schweppes in Possil Park, before turning to teaching. A secondary schoolteacher by trade, he created much of this body of work during his spare time as a member of Queens Park Camera Club in Glasgow. Following his death in 2005, a large part of his archive was gifted to Glasgow Museums’ collection by Eric’s brother Graham Watt. Many of his images also went to Historic Environment Scotland and the Scottish Industrial Heritage Society.
Some of the most well-known aspects of city life are depicted in Eric Watt’s photographs. The changing face of the city is documented with affection and curiosity, including new high-rise housing, the M8 motorway and the growing South Asian population. This is complemented by striking images of kids at play and Glaswegians enjoying rare leisure time at the football, horse racing and big city events.
A mix of black and white and colour photos, Coming Into View: Eric Watt’s Photographs of Glasgow reveals the playful eye of a prolific photographer and his dramatic, loving and sensitive way of capturing Glasgow on film. The book is divided into sections that illustrate themes such as Politics and Protest; Faith; Leisure; Working Life; Shopping; River Clyde; and The Changing City.
Coming Into View: Eric Watt’s Photographs of Glasgow is now available to order from www.booksource.net, £12.99.