David Hurn: Photographs 1955-2022
RRB Photobooks is thrilled to announce the release of a new book featuring the remarkable works of influential British documentary photographer, David Hurn. Spanning an impressive period of almost 70 years, this publication presents a comprehensive collection of Hurn’s career, showcasing his photographs in chronological order and in print for the very first time.
David Hurn embarked on his photographic journey as a self-taught artist. Beginning as an assistant at Reflex Agency in his early years, he swiftly rose to prominence as one of Britain’s leading reportage photographers, notably capturing the essence of the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. Driven by an unwavering curiosity about the world around him, Hurn became an integral part of the social revolution in both British and American societies during the 1960s. His camera lens immortalized numerous iconic figures from the realms of film and music, including The Beatles, Sean Connery, and Jane Fonda. In 1967, he joined Magnum Photo agency as a full member, further solidifying his position in the world of photography.
In addition to his international acclaim as a photographer, David Hurn is renowned for his establishment of the School for Documentary Photography in Newport, Wales. After parting ways with the institution in 1989, Hurn redirected his focus from documentary photojournalism towards a more personal approach in his creative endeavors. This approach remains evident in his current work, which he continues to produce from his residence in Tintern, Wales.
Reflecting the essence of Hurn’s first-ever published monograph, titled “Photographs: 1955 – 2022,” this book brings together the very best of his photographic oeuvre. From his earliest images captured in London to his extensive projects in Wales, the United States, Hungary, and numerous other locations, this compilation showcases the breadth and depth of his work. Throughout this captivating glimpse into Hurn’s extraordinary and diverse career, we witness his enduring curiosity and unbridled passion for the subjects he photographs, spanning across decades.
About the Author
David Hurn ( born 21 July 1934) is a self-taught photographer born in the UK but with Welsh heritage. He began his photography career in 1955 as an assistant at the Reflex Agency, and it was during his time as a freelance photographer that he gained recognition for his reportage of the 1956 Hungarian revolution.
Over time, Hurn shifted his focus away from current affairs and developed a more personal approach to photography. He became an associate member of Magnum in 1965 and attained full membership in 1967.
In 1973, Hurn established the renowned School of Documentary Photography in Newport, Wales, which he resigned from in 1989. Since then, he has been in high demand as a lecturer and workshop facilitator, traveling across the globe.
In 1997, Hurn collaborated with Professor Bill Jay on the highly successful textbook “On Being a Photographer,” which has remained in print ever since.
However, it is Hurn’s book “Wales: Land of My Father” that truly embodies his style and creative drive. This self-initiated project explores the concept of “my culture” and documents the remarkable changes occurring in Wales from 1970 until its publication by Thames and Hudson in 2000.
David Hurn is widely regarded as one of Britain’s most influential reportage photographers,
with his prints being sought after by prominent collectors and museums. In 2016, he was honored with an honorary fellowship from the Royal Photographic Society. To this day, Hurn resides in his home in Tintern, Wales, where he continues to live and work on his photography projects.
