The Miraculous Journey

Conceptual artist Damien Hirst, creator of the work, is no stranger to controversy. The Englishman first rose to prominence three decades ago with art featuring animal cadavers preserved in formaldehyde.

Sidra Medical and Research Center is dedicated to the care of women and children; therefore the bronzes, officially unveiled in 2013 after much debate, are not meant to be decorative, rather, they are designed to encourage discussion. The sculptures are seen as a celebration of childbirth and of empowerment.  

Art specialist Layla Ibrahim feels the work should spark discussion about the importance of healthcare. In this respect, the artwork exceeded expectations, as the debate went even further than intended, prompting some to consider the suitability of using art to provoke public deliberation.

Describing his work, Damien Hirst stated: ‘’Everyone talks about life’s journey, but we have a whole journey before we are born’’.