In this vast exhibition (currently showing at the Barbican until 19th June 2016), curator and photographer Martin Parr brings together 23 international photographers whose careers span the last two centuries.
In this quirky portrayal of Britishness we are presented with famous and well known photojournalists such as Henri-Cartier Bresson in a rare trip to London and Robert Frank who had a penchant for raw and intimate moments in Wales. We also have the chance to see Tina Barney’s The Europeans in their huge glory looming down on us. The traditional composition and elegance is breathtaking and emphasised in their size and detail. What I noticed about this show was that each artists contribution was treated and presented in the individual way it deserved, whether it be small negative contact prints or clusters of hand printed black and white prints or large colour tableaux each work held its own in the large space yet contributed to a wider narrative – how others see us. It was refreshing in its inclusivity. It also showed afresh how Britain works best when we can laugh at ourselves and welcome others in for a familiar cup of tea.
Of course you could also head to Benugo afterwards for a cultured flat white, best enjoyed by the fountains outside on a sunny afternoon.
