Kevin Collins, born Keith Collins, was raised in a village near Newcastle, England, by parents who were deeply committed to socialist and Methodist beliefs.
As the long-time roommate and partner of renowned director Derek Jarman, Collins' life was forever intertwined with the creative genius. The two initially met at the Tyneside Film Festival in 1987, where Collins was working as a software writer for the government at the time.
Throughout Jarman's final illness, Collins provided unwavering support and assistance, remaining by his side until the director's passing in 1994.
In Jarman's diaries, Collins was affectionately referred to as 'H.B.,' a nickname that stood for 'Hinneybeast.'
Aside from his close relationship with Jarman, Collins is also known for his passion for long-board surfing, earning him the nickname 'long-boarder.' In the 1990s and 2000s, he spent several years working as a fisherman.
In 2000, Collins served as the editor for the book 'Smiling In Slow Motion: Derek Jarman,' a testament to his enduring connection with Jarman's work.
After Jarman's passing, Collins continued to oversee the maintenance of the famous gardens built by Jarman at his beloved 'Prospect Cottage' in Dungeness, Kent, England. Tragically, Collins passed away in the summer of 2018 due to a brain tumour, leaving behind a legacy of love, support, and dedication to the creative spirit of Derek Jarman.
