Derek Jarman: Delphinium Days will feature a variety of work by Derek Jarman, aiming to demonstrate the diversity of the multi-faceted British artist’s creation. The free exhibition will open at Gus Fisher Gallery on June 15 before moving on to The Dowse Art Museum in partnership with City Gallery Wellington from 28 September.
An influential British filmmaker, stage designer, artist, and writer, Jarman was known for his distinctive and avant-garde approach to cinema and his outspoken advocacy for LGBTQIA+ rights. His work across a number of mediums including painting, film, installation, writing, set design and performance sought to challenge societal norms and reflected his activism. His work often addressed themes of sexuality, identity, and marginalisation.
As the first public figure in the UK to publicise his HIV positive status, the exhibition marks 30 years since Jarman’s death in 1994 to an AIDS-related illness at the age of 52.
Jarman’s best known and most accessible work is 1986’s Caravaggio, a fictionalised account of the life of the Baroque artist, starring Tilda Swinton and Sean Bean, though he also directed music videos for the Pet Shop Boys and the Sex Pistols.
Spanning rarely seen paintings, films, photographs and archival material by and about the artist, the exhibition will offer an inspiring, in-depth and affecting view of this celebrated cultural figure whose impact remains profound today.
A public programme of events will be delivered alongside the exhibition, sponsored by Burnett Foundation Aotearoa and informed by kōrero with Aotearoa’s LGBTQIA+ communities.
Some of Jarman’s most iconic films will screen at The Capitol Cinema during its international Pride Month film festival in June, including Blue, Caravaggio and The Garden. Other activities include a queer fashion workshop led by artist and maker Kat Aucamp (Goldi Knitwear/Rogue Aotearoa) and Derek Jarman-inspired painting workshops for kids during the July school holidays.
Derek Jarman: Delphinium Days
Gus Fisher Gallery, 15 June-14 September 2024
The Dowse Art Museum, 28 September-26 January 2025
