âI steal my wife's leggingsâ: Five blokes with âmachoâ jobs on what really makes a man
The Barbicanâs latest programme of themed events, Masculinities, delves into the ways that masculinity has been constructed and enforced. With a major photography exhibition, panel discussions and performances, the series will ask tough questions about stereotypes, power and patriarchy. We asked some London men with âmachoâ jobs to share perception-changing truths about themselves.
âI love to cuddle my pomeranian puppyâ
Photograph: Rob Greig
Darren Son, 50, smashes stuff up for Associated Demolition Services
âTwenty years ago, guys doing my sort of work would be down the pub at lunchtime, but itâs not like that any more because of health and safety regulations. Demolition is a very physical job, so do you have to be fit. But anyone, man or woman, can do it. You just need to be precise and hardworking. People are often surprised to hear that I have a pomeranian puppy who I love to cuddle. And, that at home I do most of the housework â hoovering is my favourite.â
âMy favourite thing to do is watch Disney filmsâ
Photograph: Andy Parsons
Daniel Martin, 34, works as a farrier at the Royal Artillery Barracks in Woolwich
âOften people are surprised by how caring I can be. People tend to think blacksmiths are rough and short-tempered. But to work with horses you have to be patient, otherwise they might kick you or try to gallop off. I understand why the animals might be frightened: I am walking over to them with a bit of burning-hot steel. I gain their trust by acting in a way th