Exploring the relationships between death, queerness, physical remembrance and historic loss through ACTION, the performance examines Derek Jarman’s legacy in conversation with that of his Aotearoa contemporaries, particularly Douglas Wright (MNZM) (1956-2018) the renowned New Zealand dancer, writer, and choreographer.  

Moving between the figures of Jarman and Wright, the art forms they used, the histories and politics they traverse, How Far Do Your Arms Reach? brings the spirit of the exhibition Delphinium Days to the heart of Pōneke – an awakening of the gallery though an invocation of those who have passed.  

Derek Jarman: Delphinium Days marks thirty years since the artist passed away from an AIDS-related illness at the age of 52. This is the first Aotearoa New Zealand exhibition of his work.  How Far Do Your Arms Reach?  is part of the expanded public programme staged across Wellington city and at The Dowse Art Museum, supported by the British Council New Zealand and the Pacific.    

Derek Jarman: Delphinium Days has been co-developed by Gus Fisher Gallery and City Gallery Wellington Te Whare Toi. It is co-curated by Lisa Beauchamp, Curator of Contemporary Art at Gus Fisher Gallery, Aaron Lister, Senior Curator (Toi) at City Gallery Wellington Te Whare Toi, and Michael Lett.