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Cupcakes, bunting and a bus stuck in the mud: the funeral of Martin Parr
The photographer loved to record the small details of life, so it was only fitting that his family should organise a send-off inspired by his work. ‘Funerals can be really beautiful,’ says the person tasked with recording the event
TL;DR
- Martin Parr's funeral deviated from convention, featuring a country fete-themed celebration and food inspired by his photographic work.
- His daughter, Ellen Parr, and Alice Hodge of The Art of Dining recreated dishes from Parr's iconic images.
- Photographer Sophie Green documented the funeral, an event that aligned with Parr's own interest in funeral photography and breaking societal taboos.
- The reception included elements like clingfilm-wrapped sandwiches, sad-faced cupcakes, and a tombola, mirroring past events and Parr's collecting habits.
- The service and reception were held at Woodlands Memorial Garden, offering a relaxed environment that extended for an afternoon.
- A humorous incident occurred when the bus meant to transport guests back to Bristol got stuck in the mud, which was seen as a fittingly amusing end to the day.
- Grayson Perry remembered Parr as a dry, obsessive, and incredibly hard-working photographer and friend.