Damien Hirst

Damien Hirst (b. 1965) is one of the most prominent and controversial figures in contemporary art. Born in Bristol and raised in Leeds, Hirst studied Fine Art at Goldsmiths College in London, where he was a key figure in the Young British Artists (YBAs) movement that rose to prominence in the late 1980s. He gained early attention for curating the 1988 exhibition Freeze, which showcased his own work alongside that of fellow YBAs. Hirst is best known for exploring themes of life, death, and mortality through unconventional materials and media.

Hirst's most iconic works include The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living (1991), a tiger shark preserved in formaldehyde, and For the Love of God (2007), a diamond-encrusted human skull. His use of animals, pharmaceuticals, and surgical instruments has consistently pushed boundaries and sparked debate. Hirst also gained recognition for his spot paintings, spin paintings, and large-scale installations. His work is represented in major museum collections worldwide, including the Tate and the Museum of Modern Art.

The market for Damien Hirst’s work is among the most active and lucrative in the contemporary art world. In 2008, he famously bypassed galleries and sold an entire show directly at Sotheby’s for over £111 million. His pieces continue to fetch high prices at auction, and he remains one of the most collectible living artists. Hirst’s work is also available through his own gallery and art business, HENI, which collaborates with him on print editions and digital projects.

Damien Hirst continues to challenge perceptions of value, beauty, and the role of art in society, maintaining both critical attention and commercial success well into the 21st century.