London’s Amanda Wilkinson Gallery is set to host a striking exhibition of Derek Jarman’s rarely seen Black Paintings, offering a glimpse into the artist’s introspective final years. The collection, created in the early 1990s, reflects Jarman’s response to personal and societal challenges, including his HIV diagnosis and the AIDS crisis.
A Deep Dive into Jarman’s Vision
The Black Paintings are a departure from Jarman’s earlier, more colourful works. These monochromatic pieces, often layered with tar, shellac, and found objects, convey a raw emotional intensity. Curators describe them as a meditation on mortality, loss, and resilience.
Why This Exhibition Matters
This showcase is particularly significant as it brings together works that have seldom been displayed publicly. Art historians note that the Black Paintings mark a pivotal moment in Jarman’s career, blending his filmic sensibility with avant-garde painting techniques.
The exhibition runs from 18 July to 30 August 2025, with a series of talks exploring Jarman’s legacy in contemporary art and queer culture.
