subject: The Dal Theatre-museum Of Figueres [print this page] Figueres is a small town not far from Barcelona which is the birth place of the world famous Spanish Surrealist artist Salvador Dali (1904 1989). It is now also the home of the Dali Museum, a structure conceived and designed by Dali himself according to Surrealist principles. It is an impressive undertaking and offers visitors a unique and interactive experience, allowing them not only to view Dalis art but also become part of his bizarre world.
History
In the early 1960s, Dali was approached by the Mayor of the town with the idea of creating a collection of his works in the town. Dali decided to build his museum to house his art in the derelict Figueres Municipal Theatre that had been damaged by a fire during the Civil War. Dali believed that it was the perfect location for three reasons- it was opposite the church in which he was baptised, it was the venue for his first exhibition and because he felt that his theatrical work and grandiose way of life was well suited to the spirit of the building.
Structure
The old museum was not restored to its former glory but transformed entirely. The Spanish architect Emilio Prez Piero worked with Dalis vision and designed a geodesic dome that is transparent, the skeleton of which can be clearly seen.
Works
The art on display includes work in a variety of mediums such as painting, drawing, sculpture, film and photography, showcasing the amazing scope of Dalis skill. Some of Dalis most famous work can be viewed there, including Soft Self-Portrait with Fried Bacon, Galarina,and Galatea of the Spheres. Several installations were created specifically for exhibit at the museum, like the famous Mae West Room with an image of Mae Wests eyes hung as a portrait, with a large red lip shaped couch beneath it. Dali also chose to display the work of other artists that he admired such as that of El Greco, Urgell, Duchamp, Valls and many others.
Since 1989, the year in which Salvador Dal died, the crypt that houses his body stands at the museums centre, a fitting tribute to the artist, his work and his life. The Dal Theatre-Museum is the pinnacle of Dalis creativity and an impressive representation of his singular and often eccentric outlook on life. Whether you are an art enthusiast or not, the Dali Museum is something you will not have the opportunity to experience anywhere else in the world.
