Sebastiane by Simon Dredge

The first feature-length film Jarman made was released in 1976 and portrays the life, execution and eventual martyrdom of Saint Sebastian. When the film debuted (and to some extent, till today), it was seen as controversial for its honest and beautiful depiction of homoeroticism.

Sebastiane was the first of Jarman’s films I watched when I was around 12 years old. It made such a huge impression on me. I didn’t really understand what impression it made at the time, being so young, but I knew it spoke to me on many different levels.

Using imagery from the film, Jarman’s eyes, and the painted florals, I wanted to pay homage to his love of masculinity, beauty, and the power of shocking people in the most intriguing way. Jarman’s eyes are watching and, in a very caring way, making sure we are living our lives to the fullest. He is judging us and wondering where the real artists are and how boring the world has become.

This plate is decorated with ceramic slips. Mixed media collage. Acrylic paints. Varnish and lacquer.