New Media Art

Identify 2 key subject matter(s) in Hirst's works. [Consider SMs across different series of works]

Answer explanation

• 1. Natural history (dead animals), preserved animals in formaldehyde encased in vitrines

• 2. Pharmaceutical-inspired displays and installations with surgical tools, pills, medicine

• 3. Cigarettes in display

Damien Hirst made use of the _______ to encase fragility.

What is 1 key theme in Damien Hirst's works?

Answer explanation

• 1. Christian themes of crucifixion

• 2. Fragility and transience of life

• 3. Belief systems (religion, science)

Why Vitrines? What does the Vitrine allow viewers to do or not do?

Answer explanation

Vitrines allows scrutiny, yet viewers are kept separate and away from the drama unfolding within – like scientists and cold observers.

_______ _____ inspired the use of vitrines in Hirst's works.

The label Young British Artists (YBAs) are known for 3 things, what are they?

Answer explanation

They are known for their openness to materials and processes, shock tactics and entrepreneurial attitude

1. As a Young British Artist, Damien Hirst challenged conventions of art.

Comment on how his use of mediums challenged conventions of art (1 point of VE + Effect).

Answer explanation

Hirst's choice of using organic matter (i.e. dead animals) which will continue to decay overtime challenges permanence in conventional materials of painting and sculpture, thus instilling a sense of shock in the viewers.

Hirst aims to question if science is the new ________.

What is one similar theme explored by both Damien Hirst and Marc Quinn?

Answer explanation

Both artists explore key themes relating to life and death, the transience of human life/ fragility of life.

What is the technique used to create form in Quinn's Self, 1991?