Chippie Joe’s

Chippie Joe’s transforms the essence of a local fish and chip shop into a layered narrative, full of both playfulness and subtle commentary. Inspired by an old peg board menu inside the shop, I reimagined this iconic feature as the central motif of the print, using it not only to present menu items but also to explore the lives and characters of those who frequent the establishment.

The oil-stained white and yellow pegs, set against the dark blackboard background, evoke the tactile, lived-in atmosphere of the shop. I included authentic menu items like "Cans 95p" and "Sausage and Chips," grounding the piece in the comforting, unpretentious world of a traditional British chippie. Yet, the work doesn’t stop at mere nostalgia—it incorporates the queue of customers snaking outside the shop, each depicted as a peg-style figure on the menu. These quirky, diverse characters bring humour and life to the piece, subtly transforming a static display into a bustling scene of social interaction.

The work also explores notions of routine and individuality within communal spaces. By blending the mundane with the whimsical, "Chippie Joe’s" encourages viewers to look closer at the overlooked charm of local institutions and the colourful personalities that define them.

Within the broader context of the Hidden High Street series, Chippie Joe’s is a piece that juxtaposes simplicity with narrative depth. It is not merely about a fish and chip shop—it is an affectionate and playful commentary on community, tradition, and the small yet meaningful rituals that shape our daily lives.