b. 1965, London, England. Lives and works in London.

Jeremy Deller is a conceptual artist whose practice encompasses the roles of organizer, observer, documentarian, curator, producer, and archivist. Working collaboratively and often with a non–art world public, Deller’s work consists of a diverse array of media, including video, photography, books, public benches, wall drawings, guidebooks, and billboards. His work has consistently embraced the vernacular and explored the nuanced cultural and political landscapes of Britain as well as places he has travelled.

For the 2004 Manifesta 5 European Biennial of Contemporary Art, Jeremy Deller staged A Social Parade through the streets of San Sebastián, Spain. A leaflet explained the parade’s composition as a cross-section of the city, presenting “hidden social groups and associations.” The procession included gay and lesbian activists, a martial arts club, the deaf and blind, gypsies, and retired persons, among others. The video of the event was recorded by local members of a youth video club, including interviews of biennial organizers and parade participants.

Image Credit:
Jeremy Deller, Social Parade, 2004
Stills from Manefesta 5 biennial, San Sabastiån, Spain
Courtesy the artist/Gavin Brown’s enterprise, New York, Art Concept, Paris and The Modern Institute, Glasgow.