Damien Hirst’s "The Empresses" exhibition in Sofia

With a dazzling opening, The Empresses exhibition by legendary British artist Damien Hirst was officially unveiled on October 7 at Vivacom Art Hall Oborishte 5. The event gathered an exceptional audience, including ambassadors and representatives of the diplomatic missions of the United Kingdom, Austria, the Netherlands, Ukraine, Germany, the Philippines, and Croatia, as well as prominent figures from Bulgaria’s cultural, social, and political life. The remarkable attendance underscored the significance of this initiative - to bring world-renowned contemporary art closer to the Bulgarian public.

“It is a true honor to present The Empresses by Damien Hirst in Sofia. The distinguished presence of so many official guests is a clear sign that the Bulgarian audience seeks exactly this kind of experience – direct contact with internationally recognized contemporary art. This exhibition is the result of nearly a year of dedicated preparation and professional effort,” shared Denitsa Gergova, Art Director of Vivacom Art Hall Oborishte 5, during the opening ceremony.

The exhibition presents five mesmerizing prints inspired by both real and mythological female rulers – Wu Zetian, Nur Jahan, Theodora, Suiko, and Taytu Betul. Each artwork is interpreted through Hirst’s distinctive, dynamic color palette that has long become his signature style. The pieces are a spectacle of color, texture, and symbolism. Created with thousands of butterfly wings arranged in kaleidoscopic patterns, the compositions are laminated Giclée prints on aluminum composite, finished with screen-printed red glitter that adds both depth and brilliance. Through these works, Hirst merges scientific precision with spiritual sensibility, exploring timeless themes of life, death, and rebirth.

Born in 1965 in Bristol, Damien Hirst is among the most influential and provocative figures in contemporary art. A Turner Prize laureate (1995), he has challenged audiences for decades with his monumental and often daring works, featured in the permanent collections of MoMA New York, Tate London, and numerous prestigious museums worldwide. The Empresses exhibition in Sofia marks a significant cultural moment for Bulgaria, as it introduces this emblematic series to the local audience for the first time.

As a longstanding partner of Vivacom Art Hall Oborishte 5, Unique Estates | Christie’s International Real Estate proudly supports The Empresses exhibition as part of its mission to promote art, culture, and connoisseurship in Bulgaria. Through its partnership with Christie’s, the world’s leading art auction house, Unique Estates serves as a natural bridge between the global art scene and collectors in Bulgaria. We believe that art and aesthetics are an inseparable part of the lifestyle we create for our clients – a world where beauty and inspiration are part of everyday life.

As part of the exhibition, on October 17 at 5:00 PM, a public lecture dedicated to Damien Hirst’s artistic journey and his influence on the global art market will take place. Art Director Denitsa Gergova will present insights into his most significant works, record-breaking auctions, and the philosophy behind his unique artistic vision. Guests will also have the opportunity to enjoy a private guided tour of the exhibition led by her.

The Empresses exhibition will be open to the public until October 25, 2025, at Vivacom Art Hall Oborishte 5 – a space that once again reaffirms Sofia’s place on the international contemporary art map.