This series explores a core theme of my work: community, through the lens of your local mom-and-pop grocery stores.

When you move to a new place—or travel to a new area—what’s the first thing you do? You head down the street to the little grocery store on the corner. It’s often our first introduction to the neighbourhood. A friendly ‘hello’ from the staff, narrow aisles packed with goods, boxes stacked on the floor, rows of cans sometimes randomly (but perfectly) lined. Each store has its own rhythm, its own blueprint.

Local grocery stores are the cornerstone of every community. Now more than ever, it’s time to support them—and this series begins that journey, walking us through some of the neighbourhoods here in Vancouver.