Read the latest issue here

Only Human: Martin Parr

Previously unseen photographs of Martin Parr’s Brexit Britain are on display at the National Portrait Gallery as part of the Only Human: Martin Parr exhibition

The exhibition, supported by Gucci and The Bern Schwartz Family Foundation, runs until 27 May and brings together a selection of Parr’s best-known images in which he observes Britishness. The exhibition is also showcasing new work. Images include those of the British Abroad, as well as recent photographs taken at Christ’s Hospital School in Sussex, Oxford and Cambridge universities, and the City of London and even self-portraits.


Martin Parr said: “I am very excited to have the opportunity to show my work at such a prestigious gallery. One of the main themes is British identity and given March is when we are supposedly leaving the European Union, the timing could not be better.”

Dr Nicholas Cullinan, director of the National Portrait Gallery, London, said: “We are delighted to be able to display so many new works by one of Britain’s most widely celebrated photographers in this major exhibition. Martin Parr’s witty, surprising and ingenious photographs not only reveal the eccentricities of modern life with affection and insight, they also change the way we look at ourselves, and the way we consider our relationship with the wider world. Only Human contributes to an ongoing debate about what it means to be British in an international context and reflects on the shared cultural and social history that defines the United Kingdom during a moment of change.”


The exhibition also includes a pop-up cafe, inspired by Parr’s iconic food photography where visitors can purchase Great British teatime treats, as well as an exclusive ‘Only Human’ beer crafted in collaboration with British craft brewery, Lost and Grounded, during the gallery’s Friday Lates (6pm to 9pm).


A book, Only Human, has also been produced by Phaidon to accompany the exhibition. It features more than 200 images, as well as newly commissioned essays from exhibition curator, Phillip Prodger, and an introduction by artist, Grayson Perry.

Tickets to the exhibition are £18 without a donation and £20 with a donation. Members, patrons and under 12s have free entry. For under 25s, the gallery releases 500 £5 tickets every Friday, available on a first come, first served basis, online or in person at the gallery.

For more information, please visit the National Portrait Gallery website. 

World Press Photo Exhibition now open

May 3rd, 2024

The World Press Photo exhibition is now open in London's Borough Yards

Simon Wheatley exhibition: A poignant po...

May 17th, 2024

Leica Gallery London is exhibiting the work of acclaimed London-based photographer Simon Wheatley

Fujifilm's House of Photography reopens ...

May 31st, 2024

Fujifilm yesterday marked the reopening of its House of Photography in London’s Covent Garden...

North Fylde Photographic Society to host...

July 17th, 2024

The North Fylde Photographic Society is set to commence its new season with an...

Sign up to the newsletter!

Subscribe to the Photography News newsletter to get the latest issue of the magazine, news, special offers, occasional surveys and carefully selected partner offerings delivered direct to your inbox.





You may opt-out at any time. Terms and conditions and Privacy Policy.