Philip Jones Griffiths: A Call to Action

by The Philip Jones Griffiths Foundation, David Drake (Editor), Fenella Ferrato (Editor), Katherine Holden (Editor), Donna Ferrato (Contribution by)

Overview

An in-depth retrospective of the work of Philip Jones Griffiths, one of the most influential photojournalists who shaped our view of history and changed our perception of the Vietnam War.

A comprehensive retrospective of Philip Jones Griffiths’ work and life, this publication offers a vital reappraisal of his humanist, socially engaged photography. Bringing together images from across his celebrated and lesser-known series, including his pioneering work focusing on Vietnam, this volume offers fresh insight into his process, practice, and philosophy.

Editor David Drake journeys through Jones Griffiths’ Welsh childhood to capture the development of his political and photographic sensibilities, evident in early images of antinuclear protests, 1960s Beatlemania, and the war for Algerian independence. Moving to his documentation of the Vietnam War, carefully selected plates present Jones Griffiths’ long-term commitment to shining a light on the realities of conflict and recovery.

This passion for truth-telling saw Jones Griffiths embark on assignments across the globe. Following him from Northern Ireland to Mongolia and the United States, this publication captures not only Jones Griffiths' skill as a documentarian, but his commitment to the wider photographic community. As president of the renowned photo collective Magnum Photos, Jones Griffiths remained a passionate defender of the medium.

Featuring texts by David Drake and contributions from photographer Donna Ferrato and novelist Nguyễn Phan Qu? Mai, this is an essential photobook for all who value documentary photography created with principles, passion, and integrity.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780500545485
Publisher:	Thames & Hudson
Publication date:	02/17/2026
Pages:	288
Product dimensions:	9.65(w) x 12.01(h) x 0.00(d)

About the Author

David Drake is a curator, writer, and producer. He is founder and director of Diffusion: Wales International Festival of Photography, and codirector of Caerbladon gallery.

Fenella Ferreto is one of the daughters of Philip Jones Griffiths and a trustee of his eponymous foundation.

Katherine Holden is one of the daughters of Philip Jones Griffiths and a trustee of his eponymous foundation.

Donna Ferrato is a photographer and activist. Her previous books include Living with The Enemy.

Nguyễn Phan Qu? Mai is a novelist, poet, and author of The Mountains Sing and Dust Child.