The heat is on in the art world! Eugénio Merino’s shocking piece titled ‘For the Love of Gold’ depicts Damien Hirst encased in a white display cube--similar to the ones he uses--committing suicide with a gunshot to the temple.
The Damien Hirst effigy wears a tee shirt printed with the famous $100 million diamond skull that Hirst titled ‘For the Love of God.’ The art installation is meant to be ironic--but is it offensive?
What strikes the most is the hyper-realism in Merino’s Damien Hirst sculpture, as genuine human hair, realistic-looking blood and glass eyes have been incorporated into its design. The spooky sculpture was exhibited at the ARCO 2009 Madrid Art Fair.
For Merino, the piece reflects all that is left for Hirst to do in order to surpass his master accomplishment of having the most expensive work of art of all time--kill himself, so that his works become even more valuable.
The critic also refers to the individualist character of Hirst, when he organized an auction to sell his pieces. This was a clear subversion of art market order, underlining his supreme power over art galleries.
Eugénio Merino’s piece was said to be bought on the opening day by a Florida collector. The price? $33,500 USD.
Shocking Ironic Art Installations
Is Eugenio Merino's Damien Hirst Piece Offensive or Artist
Trend Themes
1. Hyper-realistic Art Installations - The hyper-realism in Eugenio Merino's Damien Hirst sculpture opens up opportunities for artists to create shocking and thought-provoking pieces.
2. Subversive Art Market Strategies - The subversion of art market order by artists like Damien Hirst presents opportunities for disruptive innovation in the way art is bought, sold, and valued.
3. Controversial Art Depicting Famous Figures - The use of controversial art installations like Eugenio Merino's depiction of Damien Hirst highlights the potential for artists to make social and political statements through their work.
Industry Implications
1. Art Exhibition and Galleries - Art exhibition and galleries can embrace hyper-realistic art installations to attract visitors and create immersive experiences.
2. Art Market and Auctions - The subversive strategies employed by artists like Damien Hirst open up opportunities for innovation in the art market and auction industry.
3. Contemporary Art Collecting - Contemporary art collectors can explore controversial art depicting famous figures to add unique and thought-provoking pieces to their collections.