MARTIN PARR - Capturing life with humour and irony
In the realm of photography, few names carry the weight and influence of Martin Parr, whose captivating exhibition Short & Sweet at Museo delle Culture in Milan beckons viewers to embark on a journey through the intricacies of everyday life.
The exhibition – a collaboration between the 24 ORE Group, the Culture Department at the Municipality of Milan and the Deloitte Foundation – was inaugurated on 10 February and will remain open until 30 June 2024.
With accolades from prestigious collections at Tate, Pompidou, and MOMA, Parr's work transcends conventional boundaries, offering a lens through which to ponder the complexities of contemporary society.
From his thought-provoking Common Sense series to the evocative portrayal of global beach scenes in Life's a Beach, Parr's images resonate with a raw, unfiltered perspective, often tinged with humour and irony.
In a conversation with the world-renowned photographer, we delve into the depths of his artistic vision, exploring his unique approach to social documentary and the profound impact of photography in capturing the essence of our ever-evolving world.
Martin Parr in Milan
Martin, what was the inspiration behind the Short & Sweet exhibition and how did the concept come about?
This is a short version of a full retrospective, titled Parrathon, currently being held in Belgium. It covers select themes that I have explored for more than fifty years, hence the title Short and Sweet. Organised by Magnum Photos, the display features 200 images from the Common Sense series, alongside 60 personally selected photographs. This curated collection offers viewers an insight into my early black-and-white works from the 1970s and 1980s, as well as my later productions in colour.
How do you see these pieces fitting into the broader narrative of your career?
The exhibition displays various stages of my life and the diverse techniques I've employed over time, providing a visual exploration of contemporary society. It offers a distinctive viewpoint that highlights our imperfections, contrasting with the typical portrayal of idealised perfection found in magazines. By presenting these stories, I engage in a light-hearted and entertaining process that prompts me to tackle everyday life with humor, irony, and a sense of liberation.
The exhibition also explores themes such as sea life and tourism. What draws you to these subjects?
Indeed, I've dedicated much of my photographic career to documenting beaches and tourism, with a focus on the leisure activities enjoyed by the affluent West. Over the years, I've explored these subjects in various ways. For instance, I've observed the rise of "selfies" over the past two decades, followed by the decline of selfie sticks—an amusing testament to the evolving trends. Moreover, the beach serves as a unique setting where individuals freely engage in activities of their choosing, and I particularly enjoy capturing the sense of freedom they exhibit in such surroundings.
How do you decide what to photograph?
I just focus on things that I think are interesting. In my role as a documentary photographer, I believe it's my duty to mirror the era we inhabit and my connection to it. This conviction has driven me to amass a thorough archive spanning over 50 years, through which I provide my personal interpretation of numerous aspects of contemporary life.
Talking about your archive, could you discuss the inspiration behind opening the Martin Parr Foundation and your vision for showcasing British documentary photography there?
In 2017, we established the Foundation with the aim of acquiring and advocating for British documentary photography, which I believe encompasses a diverse range of high-caliber work, frequently undervalued. This platform provides us with an opportunity to showcase the excellence of British photography to the public through discussions, workshops, and exhibitions. Since our inception, we have garnered a strong following and are delighted with the progress we've made in a relatively brief period.
You have published over 120 books. Can you share the process of curating and compiling your work into these publications?
Every book I create is unique, and my approach varies and adjusts according to the context. While some of my books have been published by prominent publishers — such as an upcoming release focusing on fashion — others have been printed by smaller presses. Each book has undergone a distinct creative process and has been crafted using varied techniques, largely influenced by the subject matter at hand.
In your opinion, what distinguishes a truly great photograph, and what advice would you give to aspiring photographers striving to achieve greatness in their work?
A remarkable photographer possesses a distinct and unmistakable style, making them truly unique. Achieving such distinction is understandably challenging. For a young photographer aspiring to greatness, it's crucial to select a subject they feel deeply passionate about and dedicate themselves wholeheartedly to it. Images truly captivate when creators infuse their own essence into them.
In the cover:
The Short and Sweet exhibition poster
Image and video courtesy of MUDEC
