MCA DENVER Damien Hirst Public Reception October 10, 2008

Damien Hirst Public Reception
Large Works Gallery

Curated by Cydney Payton

MCA DENVER presents Damien Hirst’s signature works, including Saint Sebastian, Exquisite Pain, 2007 from his Natural History series presenting animals preserved in formaldehyde and displayed in large glass vitrines. His butterfly paintings offer a sense of beauty, vulnerability and tragedy. A medicine cabinet sculpture connects animals and humans to science as pharmaceuticals are created using a combination of synthetic and organic materials. Hirst’s work addresses various themes, largely in response to his personal experience and background. Religion and mortality are reflected through his Pop sensibility which is direct, yet tongue-in-cheek. Often evoking outrage, intrigue and awe, Hirst challenges established societal attitudes through new explorations of classical themes in art to offer new perspectives on questions of life and death. He is regarded among the most successful living artists working today and is recognized as the preeminent YBA (Young British Artist.)

Official Website: http://www.mcadenver.org