How do you photograph a city that never stands still?
In this episode of A Curious Appetite, I am joined by photographer and author Niki Gorick, whose work has documented London's hidden ceremonies, docklands, working communities, and riverside traditions for more than twenty-five years.
Beginning with her early fascination for storytelling and inspired by photographers including Henri Cartier-Bresson and Antony Armstrong-Jones (Lord Snowdon), Niki reflects on how photography became her way of preserving fleeting moments before they disappear forever. Together we explore photography as cultural memory, the hidden rituals that continue to shape the City of London, and why food remains central to some of Britain's oldest surviving ceremonies.
From medieval guilds and lavish civic banquets to Swan Upping on the River Thames, the conversation uncovers a London that most people never encounter. Along the way, we discuss the philosophy of documentary photography, London's remarkable charitable traditions, the changing relationship between people and wildlife, and the challenge of preserving living heritage within a constantly changing city.
Through photography, food history, London's hidden traditions, and cultural memory, this episode opens the door to a side of the city that few people ever have the chance to experience.
Further reading and resources
Learn more about Niki Gorick's work and current projects:
Niki Gorick's Dock Life is currently on display at Cutty Sark, part of Royal Museums Greenwich, where her contemporary photographs are presented alongside images and stories from the museum's archive, creating a dialogue between London's docklands past and present.
Explore the photographers who inspired Niki:
- Henri Cartier-Bresson – the pioneering documentary photographer best known for the concept of the decisive moment. Fondation Henri Cartier-Bresson | Magnum Photos Archive
- Antony Armstrong-Jones (Lord Snowdon) – celebrated portrait and theatre photographer. National Portrait Gallery Collection
Find out more about London's ceremonial traditions:
Discover more about Swan Upping and London's relationship with the River Thames:
Photography resources mentioned during the conversation:
- Sony Alpha Cameras
- Nikon UK
- Adobe Camera RAW Guide
Niki's books:
- Dock Life Renewed: How London's Docks Are Thriving Again
- Faith in the City of London
Contact: acuriousappetite@gmail.com
Artwork: @medusazzz Audio
Production: @thedeliciouslegacy
Music: @manu_pino_1111
