Utterly Lazy, Martin Parr In Words and Pictures: Susie Parr, Shawn Sobers and Wendy Jones in conversation

We’re holding a special in conversation event to mark the launch of Martin Parr’s biography in paperback, Utterly Lazy, published by Penguin, 2026. Join Susie Parr, Wendy Jones and Shawn Sobers for an evening reflecting on the life and career of one of Britain’s most influential photographers. From taking his first ever photograph, to moving to New Brighton where he shot The Last Resort, to joining Magnum Photos, to establishing Martin Parr Foundation, this biography presents a unique insight into the life of one of Britain’s most extraordinary photographers through both words and photographs. Shawn is a visual anthropologist working primarily in writing, photography, and filmmaking, and has known Martin professionally and personally for many years. Wendy collaborated with Martin on this project as writer of the book, and Susie of course knew Martin better than anyone. Shawn will chair the conversation as Susie and Wendy discuss many of Martin’s photographs throughout the evening, touching on key moments in Martin’s career and sharing their personal memories. Join us for the evening to learn more about the life and work of Martin Parr and hear the unique insight from each of the speakers. The talk will be followed by questions from the floor and a book signing at MPF bookshop, where copies of Utterly Lazy will be available for 14.99 alongside many classic, modern and rare Martin Parr photobooks. Penguin have released the paperback edition of Utterly Lazy following the success of the original hardback book which came out last year.