Seoul: Most Koreans, even those new to art, may have heard of Damien Hirst, or stumbled upon his characteristically provocative work online. Few, however, have had the chance to see it in person. That is partly what makes the National Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art (MMCA) exhibition significant -- it marks the British artist's first solo show in Asia, bringing together a sweeping body of work, including pieces that have rarely been seen in public.
According to Yonhap News Agency, the exhibition showcases about 40 years of Hirst's art-making career. "The curators have done an amazing job hanging it very beautifully and very economically," Hirst mentioned during a press conference at the museum. MMCA's curators emphasized the artist's dedication to examining themes such as death, immortality, human desire, and faith in science and medicine.
The exhibition features approximately 50 works spanning Hirst's career, from early pieces to his latest creations. Notable works include "For the Love of God," a platinum cast of a human skull encrusted with diamonds, and the "Natural History" series, which preserves real animals in tanks of formaldehyde. "The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living," a 1991 work with a shark preserved in formaldehyde, is also featured, marking only its fourth public viewing.
Additionally, the exhibition includes a recreation of Hirst's "River Studio" in London, showcasing works in progress, including paintings never before seen by the public. An artist's note offers insight into Hirst's thoughts on painting and his admiration for Henri Matisse, expressing a renewed sense of purpose in the art of painting.
Kim In-hye, head of the MMCA's curatorial team, underscored Hirst's exploration of life's dualistic nature. "According to Hirst, life is a moment. It sparks and dazzles, yet carries sadness too," she remarked. The exhibition also features the "Cherry Blossoms" series, which exhibits vitality and beauty, evoking themes of life, death, and desire.
"Damien Hirst: Nothing is True But Everything Is Possible" opens Friday and runs through June 28. Kim expressed hope that visitors would feel the comfort and devotion that Hirst finds in creating art.