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History is littered with stories of people who achieved fame and fortune after their talents were more appreciated outside their home countries. Martin Parr’s story follows that trajectory, but like his work, there is an interesting twist in his widespread recognition as ‘Britain’s national photographer’.
Parr’s photography was first admired in France in the 1970s and was admired throughout Europe, which laid the foundation for his international career and subsequent success.
He achieved fame in the 1980s with a series of photographs taken in British seaside resorts. Through his highly energetic and explosive use of color, he brought beauty to the ordinary.
The beginning of black and white
Parr has worked extensively in Europe and published four collections with Damiani Books in Italy. Silvia Pesci, CEO of the company, spoke to Euronews Culture about the partnership between the two companies and selected some of the most memorable shots.
It may be hard for some to imagine now, but back in the ’70s, color was widely criticized as being suitable only for commercials, and serious artistic endeavors were looked down upon.
In 2019, Damiani Books published From the Pope to the Flat Whites, an iconic and ironic book that covers many of the most important moments in Ireland’s recent history, including the 1979 papal visit.
Documentary writer’s record
Italy’s Damiani Books published four of Parr’s complete works, and its founder Andrea Albertini (who died in 2019) worked closely with Parr, along with editorial director Eleonara Peschi.
Parr and Albertini first met at Photo London in 2016 to discuss plans to publish Think of Scotland, a series of photographs Parr took in Scotland over a 25-year period.
From the streets of Glasgow to the agricultural shows of Orkney.
fiction and reality
Parr once said that tourism is the world’s largest industry, and that showing the contrast between reality and the ideal images we have of places in our heads is a recurring theme in his work.
“Working with Martin was great and fun. His British humor was a perfect fit for Albertini’s worldview, so it was natural for the two of us to make more projects together. 2018’s ‘Beach Therapy’ was a huge success, quickly selling out and also including a show in Bologna.” ”
As the publisher of Toilet Paper Magazine, Damiani Books has encouraged and promoted a lasting relationship with Martin, resulting in beautiful and interesting projects such as Toilet Martin Paper Per Magazines, calendars, and limited editions.
“I mean, he was a photographer, but he didn’t act like a star. He was always there, always available, never did anything impossible, and knew how the publishing machine worked.”
“In my experience, everyone who approached and worked with Martin at Damiani Books and Toretto Papers never wanted to leave him because of his transparent, funny, and very sincere atmosphere and demeanor.”
Additional sources of information • Damiani’s book