Thanks for All the Stories, Driver
Wellington photographer Alison Jones is both ecstatic and relieved that the culmination of a year’s work is finally going on display at Toi Pôneke Gallery next Thursday 11 October.
Thanks Driver is a tribute to those who get us to the airport on time or home safely after dark – Wellington's taxi drivers.
With an interest in transport systems and the people who operate them, Alison wondered how she could craft a project around these diverse personalities and share something meaningful for the city.
"I decided to do a photography assignment on the city's drivers in three parts – one portrait of the driver in their car, one in the driver's home or wherever they were comfortable, and another that revealed a deep interest or pastime of theirs," Alison says.
"It was a really interesting process – I had to gain their trust as it is quite a personal thing to ask of anyone. I spent more than a year cold-calling drivers or going through taxi companies, but when it really came down to it, I made contacts by drivers getting to know and trust me, and referring me to drivers they knew. I ended up getting a broad picture of Wellington's taxi drivers and it really hit home how everyone has a very different story to tell."
Visitors to the gallery will experience the stories of at least a dozen drivers, together with several photos documenting the drivers' lives. If anyone would like to hear more, a floor-talk about the project and the life and role of a taxi driver will take place on Saturday 13 October at 2pm. Several drivers will take part in the discussion, chaired by Alison.
Minister for Transport, Hon Annette King, will officially open the exhibition together with Wellington Mayor Kerry Prendergast at 5pm on Thursday 11 October. The drivers who took part in the project are also expected to attend.
Thanks Driver runs until 2 November at Toi PÃ…Âneke Gallery, Wellington Arts Centre, 61 Abel Smith Street.
Related Links
Toi PÃ…Âneke Exhibition Calendar