Cornish Fish Factory Residency
All photos were shot by Lulu on 35mm film and exhibited at The Fish Factory, Penryn, Cornwall
For centuries, fishermen and women have played an integral part in Cornwall's culture and heritage. It is a craft often passed down through generations, and one which is so important for local industry and supporting local systems.
However, the future for many of these fishermen and women is uncertain with Brexit, overfishing by larger international competitors, and the impact of climate change on our oceans. During her four-week residency, Lulu spent a lot of her time out at sea to get a real understanding of the work they do, the challenges they face, and how they are coming up with innovative solutions.
Roger
Based in Penzance, Roger has been working as a fisherman all his life. He now does this on a part-time basis and fishes mostly for lobster and crab, which he will then sell at the local Newlyn fish market.
Once the skipper of a larger shipping vessel, Roger now works on a small scale to provide his friends, family, and the local community with freshly caught shellfish when and where possible.
Chris, aka Ranger, Founder of Fal Oyster based in Mylor.
Fal Oyster
Chris, aka Ranger, founder of Fal Oyster is based in Mylor. Chris set up the #SavingESTER crowdfunder project, with the aim of restoring ancient habitat, repopulating native oysters, encouraging responsible production, and applying scientific research.
West Country Mussels
West Country Mussels is an A-grade mussel farm based in Fowey & St Austell Bay. It is one of the most ethical ways of farming as it creates its own habitat and cleans the water. It is owned by Gary Rowle, who has been farming mussels for over 30 years.
Some of the difficulties he has seen the industry face over the last 10 years include changes in water quality, threats from bigger companies, and getting licenses and permissions for aquaculture and seaweed farming. However, with support from local customers and restaurants, the business has been able to grow, with the opening of a new site in St Austell.
The Harvest Reaper
The Harvest Reaper is a fishing boat owned by a fisherman with 30 years of experience, Tom Mcclure. The daily catch includes monkfish, flatfish, haddock, whiting, john dorey, red mullet, dover sole, lemon sole, megrim sole, turbet, brill, spotted ray, squid, place, and dabs. They have to follow strict rules and regulations to ensure and support a future of sustainable fishing management.