Martin Parr Books

This book provides a unique perspective on the story of photography through the particular history of the photobook. The second of two extensive volumes, it completes Martin Parr and Gerry Badger’s study of the major trends and movements that have shaped the photobook genre since the birth of photography. It represents a valuable catalogue of rare and important photobooks. This volume continues where Volume 1 left off by bringing the story of the photobook fully up to date.

When Martin Parr's 'The Last Resort' was first published and exhibited in 1986 it divided both critics and audience alike. Some saw it as the 'finest achievement to date' of colour photography in Britain whilst others viewed it as 'an aberration'. The book is now recognised as a 'classic'

While the history of photography is well-established, the photobook has received less critical attention, despite being a vital medium for photographers to showcase their work and communicate their vision. This first volume, co-edited by Martin Parr and Gerry Badger, offers a comprehensive overview of the photobook's evolution, tracing its origins from the early nineteenth century to the innovative Japanese photobooks of the 1960s and 70s, including modernist and propaganda works from the 1930s and 40s. Badger's introduction emphasizes the significance of the photobook as a photographic genre, challenging the traditional view that photography's history is best represented by original prints. This study corrects the conventional narrative by presenting a selection of photographers that redefines the popular canon, revealing a complex web of influences among global photographers and movements. Organized into thematic and chronological chapters, the book includes introductory texts that provide context and highlight political and artistic influences, followed by detailed discussions of individual photobooks. Accompanying these texts are images from over 200 essential photobooks, showcasing their artistic and cultural significance. Volume One also features Badger's insightful introduction, ‘The Photobook: Between the Film and the Novel,’ alongside a preface by Parr.

A book of Martin Parr's Vienna work released to coincide with his 2016 exhibition at the Anzenberger Gallery. A simultaneous exhibition of Parr's older black and white work will be up at the Kunst Haus Wien. The book explores the know cliches of Vienna - the balls, the patisseries and the tourists. Martin photographed 5 of the 36 balls that make up the "ball season" in Vienna - the highest concentration of balls anywhere in the world. And also visited the most famous cafes, such as Cafe Central and Aida, with their glittering array of cakes as well as documenting the tourists relaxing on the Danube.

Focusing on the theme of tourism and its impact on global culture, this revised edition of a classic photobook features over 80 iconic images by Martin Parr. Through sharp satire, it critiques the homogenization of cultures and the consequences of consumerism, highlighting the paradox of tourists as both willing participants and victims of larger societal forces. With renewed relevance in today's context of climate crisis, the book reflects on the complexities of travel, freedom, and the insatiable desire for spectacle in Western society.

An unusual and hilarious collection of photographs not by but of Martin Parr. For several years now, when Parr has travelled on assignment he has wherever possible had his picture taken by a local studio photographer, or street photographer, or in a photo booth. The result is a wonderfully varied portfolio of portraits ranging from elaborate studio sets reminiscent of the heyday of the Victorian studio photographer, through to digitally manipulated images of Parr as Mr Universe. Includes 42 full-colour plates.

Following Martin Parr's celebrated Boring Postcards series, a new installment of his bizarre postcard collection. Domestic icons in a Catholic tradition, these cards were produced in the countries of Southern Europe during the 1970s, showing shamelessly idealized photographs of romantic lovers--frolicking in the hills, holding hands in the sunset, staring dreamily into each others eyes--and of perfect families--greeting Dad after work, in the kitchen baking a cake with Mom, singing together at the piano... A revealing social-historical document and very funny, for all fans of Martin Parr and connoisseurs of photographic kitsch.

The book showcases Martin Parr's exclusive photographic journey through a year of Grand Slam tennis tournaments, including iconic events like Wimbledon and the US Open. His vivid imagery captures the essence of the sport, portraying a blend of poignant and humorous moments both on and off the court. With over 80 photographs, many published for the first time, it offers a unique perspective on the diverse experiences of players and fans, highlighting the vibrant atmosphere of these prestigious events.

Martin Parr was born in Epsom in 1952. When he was a boy, his budding interest in the medium of photography was encouraged by his grandfather. Martin studied photography at Manchester Polytechnic, from 1970 to 1973 and since that time he has worked on numerous photographic projects. This book explores his work.

Martin Parr's photography spans 40 years of Ireland's transformation, capturing key events from the Pope's visit in 1979 to modern developments like gay weddings and tech startups in 2019. His work reflects the shift from traditional rural life to contemporary urban growth, with insights into societal changes and a new tourist boom post-Conflict.