If you have never heard of Martin Parr, you will probably recognise some of his photographs, many of which have been taken in and around his home city of Bristol. Today, one of this country’s most preeminent photographers will be presenting an exhibition of his own work in Bristol for the first time since 1974 when Bristol and West opens at the M Shed.

Magnum photographer Parr, who has lived in Bristol since 1987, has documented some of Bristol’s biggest events such as the St Paul’s Carnival, as well as spending 12 years capturing life in Chew Stoke.

Photographs in the exhibition will also include a summer fete at Clifton College and swimmers braving the icy waters of the Bristol Channel near Clevedon Pier.

“To be the first exhibitor in M Shed’s new exhibition space is special,” Parr says. “I hope visitors will enjoy the exhibition and perhaps see a link between my images and the essence of what M Shed is all about: local people; their unique lives and the individual personal stories behind their lives.”

Visitors to the exhibition will be able to select their favourite images from the show. The most popular photographs chosen from the 60 images displayed will then become part of the M Shed’s permanent collection.

The Bristol and West exhibition runs until November 27, during which time there will be several events, talks and workshops. Parr himself will be in conversation with author Dr Julian Baggini on October 11.

For more information, visit mshed.org or www.martinparr.com.