Jean-Jacques Lebel. Sade and freedom of expression

Jean-Jacques Lebel is a visual artist, writer and creator of artistic events. In 1966 he orchestrated the happening 120 minutes dédiées au divin marquis [120 minutes dedicated to the divine marquis], leading to his arrest for obscenity and the subsequent petition for his release signed by prominent intellectuals. In this interview, he talks about attempts to censor Sade in the 1960s and the reaction of artists like himself. He reflects on the figure of Sade as an author of visionary fiction who was ahead of his time, and promotes him as an example of disobedience in the face of established power and in favour of the right of citizens to decide how they want to think or dream.

Related to Sade

1 June 2023