Renowned British photographer Martin Parr CBE opened his exhibition at Tenby Museum and Art Gallery this month, with a focus on the seaside town that holds a special place in his heart.

‘Beside The Sea - Tenby Through the Lens of Martin Parr’ sees the British documentary photographer take a close-up look at the resort, often described as ‘the jewel in Pembrokeshire’s crown’ where he has a holiday home.

He also loves the beach, and over the course of Parr’s career, no subject has occupied him more comprehensively, or more consistently, than the countless small things that make Britain what it is.

Parr is known for his photographic projects that take an intimate, satirical and anthropological look at aspects of modern life.

“I’ve visited and photographed all the seaside resorts in the UK over the years,” Parr said in an interview to The Art Newspaper back in 2019.

“Tenby is the best. It’s like a postcard. But, unless you’re in Wales, you don’t know about Tenby. All the British middle classes go to Padstow. But Tenby’s a secret, so keep it quiet!”

Many of the images in the his published photobook ‘Beach Therapy’ were taken at Tenby.

One of Parr’s photographs was recently used as the album artwork for Blur's long-awaited return ‘The Ballad of Darren’ which reached number one in the charts.

“We are honoured to have an exhibition of prints by photographic chronicler Martin Parr. At first glance, his photographic work seems exaggerated or even grotesque, but his photographs are original and entertaining, accessible and understandable,” said a spokesperson for Tenby Museum.

“At the same time, they show us in a penetrating way how we live, how we present ourselves to others, and what we value.”

Admission to this exhibition (which runs until April 1) is included with general admission.