Humorous Hirst anecdote
9 December 2008 2 Comments
Damien Hirst complained recently of a 16 year old’s collages that incorporated photographic images of Hirst’s sculptures. The collages were being sold online for 65 pounds. The British superstar artist demanded the collages be removed from the internet gallery and that the 16 year old pay restitution of sorts for money made off of the works.
This could be the start of the kid’s career as an artist. What better marketing than to have one of the biggest names in the art world say anything about your own work.
The Independent points out the irony in the entire fiasco. Three weeks after Hirst’s diamond encrusted skull was revealed to the public, sculptor John Lekay claimed that he’s worked on bejeweled skulls since the early 90s. Lekay and Hirst were friends, reportedly, from 1992-94.
Perhaps Hirst is making a distinction between inspiration (what he presumably took away from his friendship with Lekay) and photographic reproduction? I can’t really think that it’s anything but a double standard, unless Lekay is lying — which is possible. There isn’t really any way to prove that debate though, while the evidence of the 16 year old’s commentary, or incorporation of images, whatever you want to call it, is obvious.
Brilliant story isn’t it. If I knew my Greek myths or Shakespearian tragedies there’s no doubt Hirst could be likened to some ridiculous pompous character who will hopefully get his just desserts.
Great marketing for the kid indeed – and appropriate to Hirst’s work – perhaps it’s a PR plan they hatched up together.
Aye, perhaps they did conspire together. That did cross my mind at some point but I failed to add it to the post. Thanks for bringing it up!