Final answer:
Damien Hirst's artwork 'The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living' changed the interpretation of memento mori by suspending a tiger shark in formaldehyde, challenging traditional perceptions of life and death.
Step-by-step explanation:
Damien Hirst's Contribution to Changing Memento Mori
Damien Hirst, a renowned contemporary artist, made a significant impact on the concept of memento mori through his artwork titled 'The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living.' In this artwork, Hirst suspended a tiger shark in formaldehyde, drawing attention to the fragility of life and the inevitability of death. By presenting a deceased creature in an unsettling and thought-provoking manner, Hirst challenged traditional interpretations of memento mori and encouraged viewers to confront their own mortality.
Hirst's shark sculpture stands as a powerful symbol of both life and death. It evokes a sense of awe and discomfort, forcing viewers to reflect on their own existence and the transient nature of life. Through this artwork, Hirst transformed the notion of memento mori by infusing it with contemporary themes and pushing the boundaries of traditional artistic interpretations.
In conclusion, Damien Hirst's 'The Physical Impossibility of Death in the Mind of Someone Living' revolutionized the concept of memento mori by presenting a striking image that challenges viewers' perceptions and forces them to contemplate the transience of life.