Art, like fashion is a subjective thing. Where the image of a blue and yellow outfit combo may be someone’s idea of “Vogue Worthy”, it may remind someone else of IKEA. The same applies to Damien Hirst; it’s easy to be repulsed by some of his work, but it can be equally endearing. I suppose I’m one of the people who find it all quite endearing, as I went back to the Tate in London to see the exhibition for a second time. Probably most well known for his spot paintings, Damien Hirst is one of the art world’s most renowned and is capable of much more than just spots, including his animals suspended in formaldehyde (i.e. that Jaws-like shark you may have seen in promotional posters). If I didn’t know any better I would’ve mistaken Hirst for a medic or biologist…he definitely could be considering the nature of his work – medicine cabinets, surgical equipment displays and even a pharmacy. If this man can be an artist and a medic, he might as well be a designer as well and do a bit of everything. Hirst produced a collection for Levis in 2008, showcasing aspects of his artwork on jeans and t-shirts and some may even argue that the late Alexander (Lee) McQueen was inspired by the artist too.

Photo credits:

edwardlifson.blogspot.com
artobserved.com