If you’re into photography, you’re bound to have heard of the internationally-renowned photographer, editor, curator and photojournalist, Martin Parr.
For almost 40 years, he’s been using photography to take a critical look at the world we live in. With almost 50 books under his belt, countless exhibitions and a new interest in film-making, it’s no wonder he has has a worldwide cult following.
The School of Life
VB regulars will remember the interview we did a couple of years ago with Sophie Howarth of the School of Life. She’d organised a weekend workshop on the Isle of Wight for 20 or so photography enthusiasts, with Martin Parr leading the course.
The School of Life returned again this year, with students travelling from as far afield as Paris and New York and paying a handsome sum to spend the weekend under the tutorage of Mr Parr.
Interview with Martin Parr
We were lucky enough to spend some time with Martin back in 2008 and bumped into him again this year at the Sweetcorn Fayre (The FT gave the trip a rave review).
The interview below took place down on Ventnor Seafront, which Martin told us was the crescendo of the trip. Describing the town as graceful and elegant, adding that Jim Blake’s beach huts are the best preserved in the UK.
Whilst waiting for lunch, we chatted about Martin’s career as a photographer, explored his views on the future of digital photography and he revealed why he loves the Isle of Wight.
Click on the play button to hear the interview
An exhibition on the Isle of Wight?
We’ve heard rumours that Martin Parr may be returning to the Island in the near future, this time with an exhibition of his Isle of Wight shots and possibly some talks or workshops.
We reckon this would be a fantastic thing for the Island, drawing interest, once again, from around the world.
His curation of this year’s Brighton Biennial is a big hit, with the London Evening Standard commenting that, “He has injected a new energy,” into this year’s event.
We’ll let you know once we hear more about it.
To find out more about Martin Parr and his work, take a look at his Website.
Image: Martin Parr by Julian Winslow © Used with the kind permission of Julian Winslow
