Martin Parr is a British documentary photographer and photojournalist who captures modern life in some of the most intimate ways possible. Parr is principally known for works that present social classes in the wealthy Western world while subtly ridiculing the people within it. It is Parr's observational perspective and exaggerated contrast of colour that lends his work to a more dramatic and sometimes humorous take on daily life. Currently, you can see some of Parr's most famous work at the National Portrait Gallery, among some more never before seen shots. Only Human investigates Parr's impressions of British identity in our world today. If you've ever wondered what is on Parr's playlist, read on to find out a bit more about him in typical British fashion...
1. Where were you born?
“Epsom, Surrey.”
2. What did you want to be when you were growing up?
“A Photographer.”
3. What is the best piece of advice you have ever received? What is the worst?
“Keep going / give up.”
4. Who is the one person, dead or alive, that you would like to have dinner with and why?
“Tony Ray-Jones – my hero.”
5. Where is your favourite place on this planet?
“Tenby.”
6. What is your phone screensaver at the moment?
“Some old books in Venice, taken by my wife.”
7. What is currently on your playlist?
“Richard Hawley.”
8. What are your last three Google searches?
“Restaurants in Broadstairs; Bogota; Pembroke road surgery.”
9. What gives you inspiration?
“Good work by other people.”
10. We all love a movie night, so what is your favourite film of all time?
“Victoria.”
11. What is your favourite art gallery in the world and why?
“The Tate. It's the biggest and consistently good.”
12. If you could collaborate with anyone, who would it be and why?
“I have no collaborative aspirations.”
13. What is your favourite sandwich filling?
“Rocket and crayfish.”
14. If you could visit any artist’s studio, whose would you visit and why?
“Daido Moriyama, to see how he pulls it all together.”
15. What was the last thing you bought?
“A portrait of me taken in Bogota.”
16. What is your favourite piece of clothing you own?
“Birkenstocks – they are perfection for the feet.”
17. What is hanging on your walls at home?
“Other people's photos.”
18. What is one staple item all men should own?
“What a weird question.”
19. What is your favourite cartoon and why?
“I have never thought of having a favourite cartoon.”
20. So, what is next for Martin Parr?
“Getting this questionnaire out of my inbox.”
Only Human is at the National Portrait Gallery, London, from 7 March to 27 May. npg.org.uk
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