Revelling in nature with Europe’s naked hikers
- Text by HUCK HQ
- Photography by Roshan Adhihetty
For the last few years, Roshan Adhihetty has been travelling across Europe with a group of naked men and women. Hoping to capture a little-seen side of a little-known world, the Swiss photographer joined the hikers’ journey as an observer, following them through the verdant pastures of Germany, Switzerland and Austria.
The project eventually turned into a book called Nacktwander (or ‘nude hiker’ in German). Published by Sturm and Drang, it contains a series of tastefully taken shots from Adhihetty’s travels. The naturists – balls out and boots on – are seen casually surveying some of continent’s most breathtaking landscapes, wandering undisturbed across forests, mountains and rolling hills.
Nacktwander is accompanied by a statement from filmmaker Ulrich Seidl, who praises the photos for their “genuinely impressive” composition and storytelling. “(These are) images that speak of humankind, of our great yearning to be at one with nature; but at the same time of our vulnerability when faced with the might and majesty of that nature,” he enthuses.
“Despite his many years involved with the subject, and despite his many years spent accompanying the naked hikers, Roshan Adhihetty didn’t become one. What he has succeeded in doing with these photographs, however, is as exceptional as it is evident: he has managed to find beauty in the unadorned.”
See more of Roshan Adhihetty’s work on his official website. His new book, Nachtwanderer, is available now via Sturm & Drang.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
You might like
In photos: Black Texas life since emancipation
Kinship & Community — A new photobook and exhibition showcases the rich culture, history and community of African American folks in the Lone Star State, whose existence in the region predates colonial Britain.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Youthful joy & end-of-era poignancy at a London school prom
Leavers — For several years, Lewis Khan documented young people as they celebrated the last of their school days and the completion of their exams. The series is now collated in a new self-published photobook and short film.
Written by: Zoe Whitfield
Harry Gruyaert’s vintage, kaleidoscopic scenes of New York
A Sense of Place — For 50 years, the Belgian photographer and Magnum Photos member has been capturing NYC’s colourful chaos. A new photobook and exhibition showcase his unique, technicolour view of the city.
Written by: Miss Rosen
In the pit at one of the UK’s last stock car & banger speedways
Stock Car Racing Isn’t Dead — Photographer Liam McCarthy spent time in and around the Arlington Raceway’s circuit, capturing the diehard community that keeps the sport alive.
Written by: Isaac Muk
Inside Lower Duck Pond, the nicest town on the internet
/r/HaveWeMet — With a population of 2,500 and no fixed location, the subreddit is a space for roleplaying citizens to solve mysteries, host fictional events and ultimately connect. In an internet that’s often divided and toxic, Vicky Jessop hangs out in one of its most wholesome corners.
Written by: Vicky Jessop
A major Nan Goldin exhibition is coming to London
You Never Did Anything Wrong — Opening at the Hayward Gallery in November, the show will debut a new film from the artist and activist, alongside a slate of recent work.
Written by: Jack Dennison-Thompson