Willie Carson

Willie Carson was a photographer, writer, wit and institution in Derry over four decades until he passed away in October 1996. From the 1960s onwards, he captured in unique words and images the daily life of his beloved city.

Derry Through the Lens - Refocus is a creative blend of Willie's own writings and photographs, with a commentary from his family and peers, and firmly establishes Willie as one of Derry's most avid admirers. Fascinating images from the turbulent years of the late '60s and early '70s, through the hunger strikes turmoil of the '80s to the dawning of the peace process in the early '90s are offset with photographs of Derry people at work, rest and play.

Like a journey in pictures, Derry Through the Lens - Refocus traces a line through almost thirty years of life in the city during a period of great social, economic and political upheaval. Old streets and landmarks jog the memory. Politicians and sports people jostle with musicians and actors. Those who just love to find themselves and their relatives in photos of everything - from street scenes and entertainment to riots and daily life - will not be disappointed.

Willie Carson . . . a brilliant chronicler of life in Derry.
Phil Coulter

These photographs will prove to be an invaluable historical archive.
Bishop Edward Daly

Magnificent - the best pictorial history of Derry you're ever likely to encounter.
Garbhan Downey

ISBN 0 946451 90 7
Published November 2006, softback, 272pp, 240mm x 240mm