VIRAL \ VALUE sets the value systems of art, religion, and healthcare into dynamic discussion, challenging us to think about whose lives, experiences, and stories are acknowledged and valued, in what contexts, and by whom.  In 2017, a painting attributed to Leonardo da Vinci (some experts dispute this claim) sold for a staggering $450.3 million at Christie’s New York, making it the most expensive artwork in history.  The painting features a close-up portrait of Jesus Christ as Salvator Mundi, (Savior of the World).  The works in VIRAL \ VALUE bring together this image with blood from an HIV+ undetectable long-term survivor and activist.  Noting the Christian belief that Jesus Christ shed his blood for all humanity, Eagles suggests that Christ might be considered the world’s greatest blood donor of all time. If so, what do we make of almost half a billion dollars being spent on a likeness of Christ: does the value represented by money spent align with professed values? Eagles’ work prompts us to listen broadly and attentively to the experiences of others, reflect deeply on our personal and collective values, and work against discrimination.

Co-curated by David Brinker, Director of the Museum of Contemporary Religious Art (St Louis University) and Dr. Aaron Rosen, Director of the Henry Luce III Center for the Arts & Religion at Wesley Theological Seminary.