Martin Parr pays tribute to Scotland in new photo book
- Text by HUCK HQ
- Photography by Martin Parr / Magnum
Martin Parr has been taking pictures of Scotland for over 25 years now. As a result, the much-loved photographer has built an incredible body of work; capturing surreal scenes from all throughout the country.
Now, for the first time, these previously unpublished images are being shared in a new book. The publication, titled Think Of Scotland, aims to offer a new perspective on Scottish life, with Parr looking back affectionately at his travels through Glasgow, Orkney and Edinburgh.
Like much of Parr’s work, the book adds a twist to the country’s classic visual iconography – such as highland games and stunning landscapes – with the photographer reframing each image in a dry, dreamlike way. “I just explore people and things in society, not just in the UK, but all over the world,” Parr told Huck last year. “I’ve met so many people and that’s been a fascinating experience… you do learn about the world we live in.”
GB. Scotland. Glasgow. Rangers fans at the funeral of player Davie Cooper. He died of a brain haemorrhage, three years after retiring from the game. 1995. © Martin Parr/Magnum Photos
GB. Scotland. Shetland. 2004. © Martin Parr/Magnum Photos
GB. Scotland. Dunoon. Cowal Games. From A8. 2004. © Martin Parr/Magnum Photos
GB. Scotland. Inveraray. Highland Games. 2006. © Martin Parr/Magnum Photos
SCOTLAND. Orkney Islands. The East Mainland Show. 2007. © Martin Parr/Magnum Photos
Martin Parr’s Think Of Scotland is available to buy on Damiani.
Enjoyed this article? Like Huck on Facebook or follow us on Twitter.
Latest on Huck
This erotic zine dismantles LGBTQ+ respectability politics
Zine Scene — Created by Megan Wallace and Jack Rowe, PULP is a new print publication that embraces the diverse and messy, yet pleasurable multitudes that sex and desire can take.
Written by: Isaac Muk
As Tbilisi’s famed nightclubs reawaken, a murky future awaits
Spaces Between the Beats — Since Georgia’s ruling party suspended plans for EU accession, protests have continued in the capital, with nightclubs shutting in solidarity. Victor Swezey reported on their New Year’s Eve reopening, finding a mix of anxiety, catharsis and defiance.
Written by: Victor Swezey
Los Angeles is burning: Rick Castro on fleeing his home once again
Braver New World — In 2020, the photographer fled the Bobcat Fire in San Bernardino to his East Hollywood home, sparking the inspiration for an unsettling photo series. Now, while preparing for its exhibition, he has had to leave once again, returning to the mountains.
Written by: Miss Rosen
Ghais Guevara: “Rap is a pinnacle of our culture”
What Made Me — In our new series, we ask artists and rebels about the forces and experiences that have shaped who they are. First up, Philadelphian rap experimentalist Ghais Guevara.
Written by: Ghais Guevara
Gaza Biennale comes to London in ICA protest
Art and action — The global project, which presents the work of over 60 Palestinian artists, will be on view outside the art institution in protest of an exhibition funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies.
Written by: Cyna Mirzai
Ragnar Axelsson’s thawing vision of Arctic life
At the Edge of the World — For over four decades, the Icelandic photographer has been journeying to the tip of the earth and documenting its communities. A new exhibition dives into his archive.
Written by: Cyna Mirzai