Blue

Blue is a powerful and daring work of art that serves as a political call to action and a meditation on illness, dying, and love. It was written poetically and surrealistically and was originally released as a feature film in 1993. Michael Charlesworth's compelling introduction brings Blue into conversation with Jarmans visual paintings.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: David Zwirner

"Blue" by Derek Jarman is a mesmerizing cinematic masterpiece that seamlessly blends political activism with profound contemplation on illness, mortality, and the profound essence of love. Originally released as a feature film in 1993, just a year before the tragic passing of the acclaimed artist and filmmaker due to an AIDS-related illness, "Blue" stands as a bold and poignant testament to Jarman's unwavering artistic vision.

This highly anticipated book, in conjunction with the film, serves as an audacious and thought-provoking response to the prevailing lack of political engagement with the AIDS crisis. Written with poetic finesse and a surrealistic flair, Jarman's text traverses a myriad of scenes, ranging from the mundane to the fantastical. From the everyday rituals of grabbing a coffee, perusing the newspaper, and strolling along the sidewalk, the narrative escalates into captivating visions of Marco Polo, the majestic Taj Mahal, and the vibrant clash of blue and yellow.

In the face of imminent death and the overwhelming burden of medication, Jarman presents his illness with a delirious and metaphorical lens. He delves into the physicality of emotions, weaving lyrical prose that grounds the story in the constant recurrence of the color blue—a hue that evokes feelings of melancholy, introspection, and a profound sense of funk.

Michael Charlesworth's captivating introduction to "Blue" offers a fresh perspective, seamlessly integrating the film with Jarman's visual paintings, allowing readers to appreciate the rich tapestry of artistic expression that unfolds within this remarkable work.

Weight: 60g
Dimension: 106 x 177 x 8 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781644230886