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Martin Parr, Defining British Documentary Photographer, Dies at 73

His foundation said he died in Bristol of complications from cancer.

Overview

  • The Martin Parr Foundation and Magnum Photos confirmed his death overnight on 6–7 December.
  • A friend said he "fell asleep while watching football," describing a peaceful passing at home.
  • His 1986 photobook The Last Resort helped shift British documentary photography toward saturated color and a satirical gaze on everyday life and mass tourism.
  • Parr joined Magnum Photos in 1994 after debate within the agency and later served as its president from 2013 to 2017.
  • He founded the Martin Parr Foundation in 2014 and donated roughly 12,000 photobooks to Tate, establishing a lasting institutional legacy.