Chris Coekin: The Hitcher

Having spent a somewhat gruelling six years hitchhiking his way around the UK and Northern Ireland, with little more than his camera, photographer Chris Coekin has certainly had enough of suffering for his art. His efforts have been well rewarded though, with much sought after space in The Photographer's Gallery.

Chris was intrigued as to why we see fewer hitchhikers these days. Are we less trustworthy? What inspires someone to pick up a stranger? He made the conscious decision that every time he was offered a ride he would ask if he could photograph those kind enough to give him a lift. Luckily most were happy to help.

Untitled from The Hitcher – Chris Coekin

The exhibition starts with a series of self-portraits showing Chris braving the beating sun and driving rain, as he waits by the roadside. Accompanying these are quotes from the drivers on why they stopped for him. Comments range from: 'You looked interesting – I like meeting people from other places', 'A bit of company' and rather worryingly 'To rob you!'

Next up are the souvenirs of his trip, a selection of signs crafted on the back of cereal boxes to indicate where he wanted to head. There are also images of roadside debris, including an empty bottle of bubbly, a banana skin and a roadkill rabbit. Celebration, humour and death all captured right there by the road.

Untitled from The Hitcher – Chris Coekin

For me the most interesting are the portraits of the people he met en route. It's clear in some of the expressions that Chris has built up a good rapport with them. There was obviously enough initial trust in them to offer a ride, yet some look very wary. Perhaps they are just concerned about being in front of the camera when they didn't expect to be.

As for insider tips for his fellow hitchhikers Chris cites Northern Ireland is one of the easiest areas to get a lift and Newcastle one of the most difficult! Despite asking for trouble, by naming the project after a cult horror movie, his road trip didn't end in disaster but in a thought provoking piece of work.

Untitled from The Hitcher – Chris Coekin

The Hitcher takes on a very timely topic in our suddenly carbon footprint conscious world. Personally I was left intrigued to know more. Wondering just how many people he photographed during those six long years. And out of the twenty drivers chosen to line the gallery walls, was the one who wanted to rob him included!

Exhibition ends 2nd September 2007
Admission free
See website for further details