02 Jun 2025 1 min read

Art News: Damien Hirst | Posthumous Paintings

Damien Hirst is never far from an intriguing idea that challenges contemporary art. At 60, most artists might reflect on their legacy in the past tense, however, Hirst is doing something different: he’s writing instructions for 200 years of future art.

200 years beyond death

In a recent interview with The Times, Damien Hirst has revealed plans to continue his legacy for another two centuries.

His fascination with death has been a lynchpin in his career, so it makes sense that he would want to live on in some way.

He intends to create 200 notebooks containing specific instructions for works to be made each year after his death. The 'posthumous paintings' would be executed by others and signed by his descendants, essentially allowing for his creative output to continue through the generations to come.

“The idea is to have a certificate that says ‘Year One after Damien Dies: you’ve got the right to make this sculpture and you can trade the certificate before it isn’t made."

Damien Hirst

Dedicated auction at Phillips London | 5 June 2025

From his early days as a YBA to facing controversies over plagiarism accusations and the commercialisation of art, Hirst knows how to remain at the centre of the conversation. He stands as a highly influential and savvy artist who continues to evolve, grow, and shift.

I think it is fair to say he will continue to be part of the contemporary art discussions for many years to come...