On Tuesday 26th March a group of 15 Year 12 photographers visited the National Portrait Gallery in London for a special workshop exploring the work of Photographer Martin Parr and examining the question that is currently causing debate across the country; What does is mean to be British?  The day began with a tour of Parr’s current exhibition; Only Human. Many of the students loved Parr’s comical depictions of everyday British life, and began thinking about how Britain has changed over the years, and particularly in the time of Brexit. 

Following this the students completed a studio based activity with artist Marysa Dowling, photographing each other with professional lighting set up and props. In the afternoon they completed an activity with artist Eddie Otchere, using Trafalgar square as a location, and finding willing models for their portraits in members of the public.

Students commented that they really enjoyed using the lighting and props, to get really professional outcomes, and that they now had the confidence to approach strangers to pose for their photographs. 

Both artists commented that they were really impressed with the student’s enthusiasm, and their engagement with the two very different tasks. Students created some great images, and will be able to use these in their coursework as well as enter them into The National Portrait Gallery’s current competition for a chance to exhibit their work at the Gallery and meet Martin Parr himself.