B&W photo essay explores the Southside icon
Founded in 1918, Zarzour’s Cafe has been a fixture of the Southside for nearly a century. It recently caught the eye of local architect and photographer Brad Shelton, who is currently working on a series of black-and-white photo essays.
Shelton’s experience in architecture gives him a unique perspective behind the lens, and he is especially fascinated by how manmade structures are affected by—and eventually give way to—natural elements. In Shelton’s words, “The materials used to create the spaces where we live, work, and play seem to acquire more character as they age.”
This interest in aging structures naturally led to an exploration of how the human element affects place. Entitled “Please Seat Yourself,” Shelton’s photo essay series explores how the families that own and operate Chattanooga restaurants influence the experience of place and make each location unique.
The latest installment of this series features Zarzour’s Cafe and will open this Saturday, Sept. 6, in time for AVA’s Gallery Hop. There will be an opening reception from 6 – 9 p.m. at The Northshore Gallery of Contemporary Art, and the exhibition will be on display through Oct. 1.
“Please Seat Yourself”, Northshore Gallery of Contemporary Art, 505 Cherokee Blvd. (423) 400-9797, hillcityart.com — Rachael Poe