JEFF KEEN – GAZENTENARY!

November marks the centenary of the birth of legendary Brighton-based artist and film-maker Jeff Keen (1923–2012). Dubbed the ‘Peckinpah of the South Downs’ he was a pioneer of experimental film whose rapid-fire animations, multiple screen projections and raucous performances redefined multimedia art in Britain. This year CINECITY and friends pays tribute to his life and work with a number of festival events.

100 years of Dr Gaz
John Marchant Gallery, 37 Ship Street BN1 1AB

A centenary celebration of the extraordinary vision of Brighton’s own Jeff Keen. Keen was relentless in his quest for creative satisfaction, often drawing friends and family into his practice, many of whom appear in various guises in film and photography through extended periods of his career. Keen also had a rare ability to draw as if tracing a line already marked by his mind on the paper, allowing an incredible level of energy and confidence to imbue his work across so many media. The exhibition will feature large format photographs and film stills, painting, intimate drawings and a rolling presentation of film from the renowned career of one of the UK’s most exciting and pioneering artists. This exhibition has been organised with the kind cooperation of Stella Keen aka Stella Starr. 

Image Credit: Jackie Keen As The Ray Man (1968-1976) Chromogenic print. Courtesy John Marchant Gallery and The Estate of Jeff Keen