This week’s book in reception: Common Sense by Martin Parr
by Julian Gratton
Along with giving me an addiction to Fig Rolls and introducing me to the music of Mr Scruff I also credit my old Art Director, Simon Rowlands, with introducing me to the photographic work of Martin Parr about 6 years ago… and ever since then I’ve been a fan of his unique views of both Britain and the world in which we live.
Internationally recognised as a brilliant satirist of contemporary life, Martin Parr has led the development of the British documentary tradition with wit, style, and intelligence in a career that boasts numerous publications and exhibitions. His work is held by major galleries and museums worldwide. ‘Common Sense’, which this week graces our reception area, combines extravagantly lurid and luscious colour with Parr’s trademark sense of irony. Though hilariously funny – as always with Parr’s work – there is a sharp and biting edge to the humour.
Martin Parr was born to a middle class family in Epsom, Surrey, Britain, in 1952. His desire to become a photographer was inspired by his grandfather George Parr. At the age of fourteen, Parr already knew that he wanted to be a photographer and so in later years he went to Manchester Polytechnic to study Photography.
Parr’s early works in the 1970s are solely black and white photography, but after 1980 he switched to colour film. His inspiration for colour photography was originated from the American photo-documentarists William Eggleston, Joel Meyerowitz and John Hinde’s postcards.
As you flick through the book in reception, you’ll be seduced by an almost romantic view of Britain… but a view that is easily seen on high-streets and at seasides up and down the country… and I’m sure like me that once you see his images, you too will become a fan of Martin Parr.
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