Documentary photographer Polly Braden has spent over a year capturing the lives of young people living on the coasts of England and Wales, resulting in a powerful new exhibition that challenges stereotypes and celebrates resilience. Her work, part of the Guardian's Against the Tide series, focuses on 16- to 25-year-olds growing up in often overlooked coastal communities.
Inspiration Behind the Project
Braden was inspired by a landmark report on the poor health of coastal residents. As a single mother of teenagers, she became interested in how young people have navigated austerity, the pandemic, and the cost-of-living crisis. She wanted to shine a light on those living on the 'edges' of the island nation.
Key Photographs and Stories
One striking image shows Libby from Whitehaven on a beach under a gloomy sky, holding a bag of oranges with a faint rainbow behind her. 'There's beauty in it, and there is bleakness,' Braden says. Another photo features Cohen from Grimsby dressed as an Easter bunny; unable to find local work, he started his own mascot business. In Scarborough, Braden photographed Jake, Keane, and Charlie on a wall, capturing a sense of trepidation about what lies beyond.
Exhibition Details
The touring exhibition opens at Arnolfini gallery in Bristol in June and moves to Firstsite in Colchester in October. Alongside Braden's work, it features postcards created by young people at workshops, sharing messages about growing up in their areas. Visitors can also view a film about four young people from a Blackpool dance hub, highlighting the challenges of pursuing creative careers in coastal towns.
Challenges and Resilience
Braden emphasizes the importance of sustained engagement with communities, avoiding superficial visits. She aimed to celebrate talent and creativity, showing that with proper resources, coastal youth can thrive. 'I want people to look at these pictures and think: young people on the coast do so many different things... they're amazing, they're really fun,' she says.
The project underscores the need for policymakers to listen to young people. 'Just go and sit in that youth centre. Have conversations. Because the young people are really powerful. They know what they want and they will tell you, if you listen,' Braden adds.
