In 2009, Damien Hirst was invited by Disney to create an artwork inspired by Mickey Mouse using his own visual vernacular. Hirst created a playful reinterpretation using his signature spot paintings.  Using Disney’s original composition, profile and bold colours, Hirst transforms the Disney character using his own instantly recognisable painterly language.  The painting was auctioned at Christie’s, London, 2014 in aid of Kids Company, a charity Hirst has long supported, raising almost 1 million pounds sterling. The work’s popularity lead the way for the release of a limited printed edition silkscreen later in the year.

“Mickey Mouse represents happiness and the joy of being a kid and I have reduced his shape down to the basic elements of a few simple spots. I hope people love it, because it is still instantly recognizable – Mickey Mouse is such a universal and powerful icon.”- Damien Hirst.

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