Ad Te, Domine, Levavi, a serene masterpiece from Damien Hirst's esteemed Psalms series, invites viewers into a realm where art, spirituality, and tranquility intertwine. Hirst's artistry, known for its ability to transcend boundaries, is vividly expressed in this captivating work that explores themes of faith, elevation, and the ethereal beauty of the natural world.

As a pivotal part of the Psalms series introduced in 2008, Ad Te, Domine, Levavi takes its name from an Old Testament psalm, grounding the painting in a tradition of deep reflection and reverence. This piece stands out for its light blue background—a calming, sky-like hue that imbues the scene with a sense of peace and elevation.
In Ad Te, Domine, Levavi, Hirst employs a circular composition with concentric rings of butterfly wings, reminiscent of a mandala, to symbolize the eternal and cyclical nature of life and spirituality. The central motif of butterflies, arranged in delicate layers, represents transformation and the delicate beauty of life's journey. Against the backdrop of light blue, these butterflies seem to ascend, evoking feelings of spiritual elevation and transcendence.

Upon closer examination, Ad Te, Domine, Levavi reveals layers of symbolism that evoke contemplation. The light blue background conveys a sense of heavenly serenity and the boundless expanse of the divine. The concentric arrangement of butterfly wings speaks to the cyclical nature of life's journey, where each layer represents a new phase of growth and transformation.

Through Ad Te, Domine, Levavi, Hirst encourages viewers to ponder the mysteries of faith and the quest for spiritual elevation. Is this painting a prayer for divine guidance and upliftment, a meditation on the soul's ascent towards enlightenment, or a celebration of the ethereal beauty found in the natural world? The circular composition reinforces the idea of continuity and the eternal presence of the divine in our lives.

As viewers stand before Ad Te, Domine, Levavi, they are enveloped in its serene light blue hues and mesmerizing concentric arrangement of butterfly wings. Hirst's masterful creation serves as a portal to contemplation, encouraging us to reflect on the journey of the soul, the transcendent nature of faith, and the enduring mysteries that connect us to the divine.