HIBAPRESS – Agencies
British photographer Martin Parr, known for his works rich in vibrant colors and his mocking look at his compatriots or consumer society, died on Saturday at the age of 73, according to his foundation.
A statement issued on Sunday by his foundation, alongside another published by the prestigious "Magnum Photos" agency, with which Parr had collaborated for a long time, stated: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of Martin Parr (1952-2025) at his home in Bristol" on Saturday.
The cause of death was not specified, but in May 2021, the photographer was diagnosed with a cancer affecting plasma cells.
Martin Parr was born in Surrey on May 23, 1952, and his grandfather introduced him to the hobby of photography. He began his career in the seventies after completing his university studies in Manchester. He initially published his photos in black and white, like the great photographers.
After a career fraught with difficulties, he became a full member of the "Magnum" agency in 1994 and held its administration between 2013 and 2017.
Martin Parr was known for his works inspired by advertisements, with their large frames, vibrant colors, and British touch. They focused mainly on mass tourism and consumerism.
They were the subject of admiration and criticism at the same time, especially regarding the image presented of the working class in his country.
Parr said after Britain's withdrawal from the European Union, of which he was a fierce opponent: "I love Britain and I hate it at the same time. What I do in my photos is to immortalize this British contradiction. There is good taste and its lack, and I try to mix the two in my work."
Martin Parr loved collecting odd pieces and photo albums. He published more than 120 books and has an archive of more than 50,000 photos, many of which are kept in his foundation in Bristol.
