Derek Jarmen — Hal Bromm Gallery

Hal Bromm
90 West Broadway, 2nd floor
New York, NY, 10007
+1 212-732-6196

Tuesday–Saturday 12–5pm
Or any time by appointment

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Derek Jarman
b. 1942

English artist Derek Jarman (born 1942) is best known for his work as a filmmaker, costume designer, stage designer, writer, poet, gardener, and gay rights activist. In 1960, Jarman studied both English and art at King’s College in London, later studying at the Slade School of Fine Art in London.

In 1976, Jarman released his first film, Sebastiane, a homoerotic thriller which complemented his involvement in the punk scene, and his second film, Jubilee (1977), cemented his place in the community. Furthering his engagement in Punk, Jarman worked with musicians such as The Sex Pistols, producing music videos and installations for shows. Jarman’s films are as follows: Sebastine (1976), Jubilee (1977), The Tempest (1979), The Angelic Conversation (1895), Caravaggio (1986), The Last of England (1988), War Requiem (1989), The Garden (1990), Edward II (1991), Wittgenstein(1993), and Blue (1993).

In 1986, Jarman was diagnosed with AIDS. This diagnosis pushed an already outspoken Jarman to further fight for LGBTQ rights and against ignorant and prejudice legislations. Jarman can also be recognised for helping in the reclamation of the term “Queer”, stating in his diary, "For me to use the word ‘queer’ is a liberation; it was a word that frightened me, but no longer."

Continuing his work in gay activism and in being faced with death, he made his final film, Blue (1993). Blue features a background of Yves Klein Blue with Jarman narrating and reflecting upon his battle with AIDS. Jarman, a niche yet influential artist, is still recognized today for his involvement and the mark he left in the world of cinema. In 1994, at the age of 52, Derek Jarman passed away from AIDS related complications.