Liverpool-based freelance photographer Colin McPherson's latest exhibition is a specially commissioned body of work about the Mersey river.

Mersey - the river that changed the world opened earlier this month in Liverpool, next year's European Capital of Culture. Here, Colin explains more about the project and what he feels is the essence of Liverpool's famous waterway:

"The brief was straightforward: to photograph the river Mersey, from source to sea. Interpreting such a project would be more difficult.

"How do you capture the essence of a waterway that begins as a trickle high in the Peak District and empties out into Liverpool Bay? A river encompassing rural beauty, industrial decay, regeneration and economic wealth. That passes major towns and cities and is a visual testament to the region's history. That twists through undiscovered and forgotten backwaters. And that touches peoples' lives and provides employment and enjoyment for many.

Multimedia

• The Mersey by Colin McPherson

BACKGROUND

• Liverpool, a complete guide

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Related Internet Links

• Liverpool: European Capital of Culture 2008

"The Mersey revealed so many secrets and surprises at every turn that it proved easy to photograph. Over the course of a year, I spent so long in the river's company that I discovered how a modern river works. It provides work for some, recreation for others and shapes the environment around it. It is the inspiration for artists and rich historical resource for future generations.

"I was captivated by the form and function of the river; an environment shaped by the human hand that I photographed without people. I looked for the extremes of night and day, hot and cold, light and dark. And all the while the Mersey was a good companion to me. In the end, the river, as it has for so many people, became my friend."

The exhibition Mersey - the river that changed the world is on until mid-January at Grand Hall, Albert Dock, Liverpool, before moving to venues across the North West. The accompanying book, priced £17.99, is published by Bluecoat Press.

For more information on the photographer and exhibition visit www.colinmcpherson.co.uk

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