Cable cars and market stalls with photographer, Luke Abgaimoni
We ask the Tube Mapper where he goes in London
Every now and again we like to ask people for their personal take on London. We get them to tell us the places in the city that they turn to for different reasons: the spots that excite them, inspire them, make them feel calm, happy or just make them want to spend money. We call it ‘Where do you go?’.
This week it’s the turn of photographer Luke Abgaimoni whose Tube Mapper and Shapes of the City projects capture the architecture and infrastructure of London in beautiful and playful ways.
Who are you and why should we trust you?
I’m Luke Agbaimoni. A born and raised Londoner, photographer and author of The Tube Mapper Project Capturing moments on the London Underground. I’m not sure if you should trust me, but it’s always interesting to hear another person’s point of view
Where do you go to cheer yourself up?
I’ve always been inspired by the London Docklands. I grew up near Surrey Docks, and my early career worked near Royal Victoria Docks. I always enjoy walking around the dockland areas. There is something that I find calm and soothing about the contrast of the new buildings, old structures and water.
Where do you go and always end up spending too much money?
I don’t really spend a lot, but somewhere for the kids perhaps? Things get expensive once you add on extra treats.
Where do you go that can never close down, because if it does you might cry?
Deptford market (below). I’ve always been a fan of London Markets and Deptford will always hold a special place in my heart. I remember visiting it as a kid and as a student. Buying treasures from the junk shop and video games from the computer stand.
Where do you go that’s within walking distance of your house?
Parks. South London is full of so many wonderful parks I don’t think I can single one out
Where do you go when you can afford it?
The theatre. My favourite is the Globe Theatre near London Bridge (below) . But I haven’t been there in a good while. We have however, had great experiences at kid theatres. My favourite was The Little Angel Theatre’s rendition of Wow Said The Owl.
Where do you go to be alone?
I have young kids, so I’m never really alone. But I actually enjoy commuting on London transport. The Tube Mapper book was born from my exploration of varying my journeys to and from work and discovering new stations and areas. So I guess even though I’m surrounded by commuters, travelling does give me that personal time to think.
Where do you go to impress someone?
This would depend on the person. Part of the appeal of London is how varied it is. For example a simple London trip I enjoy is visiting Greenwich then jumping on a Thames Clipper to Westminster. Many Londoners and visitors to the city never travel by boat. Another random trip involves travelling on the cable cars, it always surprises me how many people don’t even know they exist.
Where do you go if you want to feel comfortable?
I was born in the south east and have generally worked near central and west London, so feel comfortable pretty much anywhere.
Where do you go to get inspired?
My photography projects are always inspired by exploring the city. My most recent project Shapes Of The City takes inspiration form the huge variety of art and architecture on display in London. I photograph dancers and yogis interacting with the shapes and forms throughout the city. So I enjoy traveling around to find my inspiration.
Where do you go to think?
My garden.
You can follow Luke on Instagram here.
If you know of anyone that you think would make a good interview for our ‘Where do you go?’ series then let us know on Londoninbits@gmail.com.