(Volume podcast corrected) This crisis will accelerate the disappearance of small shops run by small independents. Although it would be nice if actions to do your shopping right there made a difference, competing with the gigantic offer of the big online chains is almost impossible. That is why we should cherish them while they are still around. And do not grumble if we chalk up a few percent more on an item that is just not exactly what we are looking for.
Photographers are also struggling. Because it is hard to take photos when everyone stays inside and you are not allowed to visit anywhere as a seventy-year-old. It is even harder to exhibit when all the galleries are closed.
Luckily for Emile Waagenaar, his latest expo is available for all to see. If you enter the Chassé theatre car park by bike or on foot (by car is also possible, but why bother) you will find yourself in the 3sec Gallery. Exhibits are displayed along the walls of the access tunnel.
Small business owners
So this time, extra reason to go by foot, because Waagenaar's photos are worthy of being viewed with attention. Especially in this day and age. He photographed commissioned by the Breda Archive small shopkeepers in their shop. It is a project he returns to every few years, and you can see exactly why the small shop is something to cherish.
Waagenaar talks about the almost anthropological work he does: small shopkeepers are a separate breed of entrepreneur, according to this podcast. We are going to miss them. With their personal attention, and distinct quirks.