Tunick is the American photographer known for his photographs of large numbers of nude people placed closely together. Market stall-holders arrive around four o’clock in the morning and work like fury to present their stalls ready for the public for each Saturday’s weekly show. Whether it is creating an ‘installation’ out of fruit or veg, or arranging secondhand toy figures (as below) it’s a joy to see. And it’s art.

On walkabout today, these big brown eyes said “please adopt me”.

Click on the photograph to see a Larger Version

It feels so much better buying local at Rheola Market, from a small family business with their roots in the community.

There’s a lot more colour and conversation and warmth than the sweatshop down the road they call a supermarket.

No one asks “Have you got a Club Card?”

No false smiles and “Happy to Help” badges.

There are no trolleys so it’s not like the M4 in rush hour.

Walk as fast, or as slow as you like.

There are no credit cards, cashpoint machines or “cash-back” in this market.

Remember the days you counted your own money ?

It feels good to feel the money once again, passing it from hand to hand.

It’s all lit by sunlight… the good old fashioned way.

There is no tannoy system to announce a special offer on tangerines, tampons, and tulips.

No signs of cameras watching your every move as you secretly squeeze an orange, scratch your balls, or casually rub your fingers along a parsnip to check it is OK.

“Is that all, my love?” asks the fruit and veg man.

“Yes, that’s lovely, love.”

Adopt a Welsh orphan baby for Christmas…

beautiful and healthy-looking baby dolls.

For sale at Rheola Market every Saturday.

Douglas – Mr Cheese – from Brecon sells all kinds of cheeses at Rheola Market every Saturday. His stall is near the main entrance of the Rheola Market building.
There’s always a wide selection of cheeses at a value-for-money price.

Rheola Market is held every Saturday from 9am until 4pm. It is held 4 miles south of Glynneath. Postcode SA11 4DT.