It is with deep sorrow that we heard of the passing of our esteemed friend and Genesis client, Brian Griffin. Brian, widely recognised as one of the most distinguished British photographers of his generation, consistently pushed the boundaries of contemporary photography, while being a friendly and affable client and friend.
Brian’s career was marked by ground-breaking contributions, from his influential ‘Work’ in the 1980s to the National Portrait Gallery’s commissioned project, ‘The Road to 2012.’ The accolades for ‘Work,’ such as winning the Best Photography book in the World at the Barcelona Primavera Fotografica 1991, and the use of his photograph “A Broken Frame” on the front cover of Life magazine’s special supplement, “The Greatest Photographs Of The 80’s,” underscore the lasting impact of his work.
Paul Hill, Curator, Lecturer and Photographer, chose Brian Griffin, along with Martin Parr and Thomas Joshua Cooper, for the Three Perspectives on Photography exhibit at London’s Hayward Gallery in 1979. This event played a crucial role in shaping the UK art scene, representing a turning point where mainstream art began acknowledging the importance of photography. Mark Foxwell, Genesis’ Creative Director, proudly says this is where he first encountered Brian’s work.
Throughout his prolific career, Brian authored over twenty photographic books, participated in more than fifty international solo exhibitions, and contributed to institutional collections globally, including the Victoria & Albert Museum and the National Portrait Gallery.
Our history with Brian is woven with collective memories of the joy (and chaos) he would bring to the building. He not only brought forth his remarkable talent in photography but also engaged with each of us with genuine kindness, always asking how we were. Brian’s rare combination of artistic brilliance and personal warmth endeared him to everyone fortunate enough to know him.
As we bid farewell to Brian, let us remember not only his significant contributions to the art of photography but also the warmth, kindness, and positive spirit he brought to those who knew him. His absence will be deeply felt, but his legacy will endure in our hearts and the broader world of photography.
Rest in peace, young Brian.
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