Damien Hirst, H6-2 Grace, 2019

Diasec-mounted Giclée print on aluminum composite panel

39.5 x 39.5 in | 100 x 100 cm

Ed of 50

In ‘Grace’, Damien Hirst made use of his iconic butterfly motif to produce a magnificently entrancing work. The intricate patterns of butterfly wings on Victorian tea trays inspired him to construct his butterflies into complex patterns, leading him to produce ‘Grace’.

‘Grace’, a print from ‘The Aspects’ (H6, 2019), depicts butterfly wings of various sizes in peaceful hues of blue and white. Arranged in perfectly symmetrical patterns, these wings emanate out from the vertical and horizontal axis, and then diagonally thereafter to create kaleidoscope-like patterns. Arranged in pairs or individually, these wings are not real but appear otherwise, their every minute detail captured in high definition.

Named for one of the characteristics of God as detailed in the Old Testament, ‘Grace’ builds on Hirst’s interest in the butterfly motif as spiritual symbol, having been used in Christian imagery to signify resurrection. The connection to Christian imagery and symbology is further strengthened in the stained glass-like effects of ‘Grace’. Not only do these wings recall carefully cut pieces of glass set into black lead cames, but they also appear illuminated, as if lit from behind. Fusing this religious symbolism with his perennial fascination with the butterfly’s ability to retain an exquisite beauty in death just as in life, here Hirst establishes the insect as an uplifting and radiant symbol of mortality.