Damien Hirst English, b. 07/06/65
120 x 96 cm
Damien Hirst's Honesty is one of eight works from The Virtues series, created in 2021. This series integrates Japanese cultural and aesthetic themes, drawing inspiration from the Bushidō code of ethics and the symbolism of cherry blossoms. Honesty specifically reflects the values of truth and integrity, embodying the transient beauty of life through the imagery of blossoming cherry trees.
The piece features two vibrant cherry blossom trees depicted against a serene pale blue backdrop, symbolizing renewal and the fleeting nature of existence. These blossoms evoke the Japanese concept of mono no aware, an appreciation of life's impermanence. The work employs a laminated Giclée print on an aluminum composite panel, with dimensions of 120 x 96 cm, and is part of a limited edition.
Hirst's application of Pointillism and Impressionist techniques in this work, combined with his nod to Japanese traditions, creates a compelling narrative about honesty as a virtue—a value that echoes the clarity and transparency of blossoming nature.