Dali Museum Figueres
Spanish surrealist painter, Salvador Domingo Felipe Jacinto Dali y Domenech
made a dramatic impact on the world with his often bizarre, always striking and
beautiful artistic images. Best known for his brilliant "The Persistence of
Memory" where "melting" clocks are draped across a barren landscape, Dali's work
was always creative and imaginative. As for entertaining and thought provoking,
Dali's work never disappoints. It is this brilliance and talent that is the
foundation for the Dali museum which houses some of the finest art in the world.
Opened in 1974 in Dali's home town of Figueres in Catalonia, the Dali museum
also bears the distinction of being the largest surrealistic object in the
world. The site originally housed the Municipal Theatre which was constructed in
the 19th century and was destroyed in 1939 at the end of the Spanish Civil War.
However, where everyone saw ruins, Dali saw an opportunity to create a piece of
history and he built his museum. Currently, the Dali Theatre-Museum houses
approximately 1,500 pieces of art of varying mediums from sculpture to painting
and drawing, from engraving to photography and much more.
Getting There
A short train ride from Barcelona (see
RENFE for timetables) will
bring you straight into Figueres where the museum is just a 15 minute walk from
the train station. Signposts from the station to the museum guide you on your
trek. It should also be noted that the museum's galleries are accessible by
wheelchairs and there are some wheelchairs available for patrons to use in the
museum.
There are also
coach excursions from Barcelona that include a visit to the Dali Museum or
you can book a
private tour with your own vehicle and driver.
Visiting the Museum
Because of various exhibits that are somewhat extraneous of the permanent
collection, there is always something to new to discover. Even the museum tours
vary. A one hour long tour of the museum with a volunteer guide may highlight Dali's interest in Freud
while another may place an emphasis on science, mathematics or art history as
they relate to Dali's life. Other tours are also available which focus on other featured artists such as Andy Warhol and
there are even theme based shows. There is
something for everyone and the variety appeals to a wide range of artistic and
creative palates. Two hour, specialized tours are available but require advanced
booking of at least two weeks.
Of course, choosing to roam the museum on your own and explore its rich
offerings is also a very viable option. You may want to set aside two hours or
more if you are an avid fan of Dali's works. There is a clearly marked path for
individuals who wish to head out on their own. The museum is home to many of
Dali's paintings and artistic works; although his most famous and best known
pieces are the private property of several American and Japanese individuals
thus they are not on the grounds for viewing. However, you can certainly see a
great many of his works and the themes run strong through the collections that
are on site. And these works are no less breathtaking.
Your tour of the Dali Theatre-Museum begins before you even cross the
threshold. The building itself is a bold statement to Dali's genius and
brilliance. Its massive dome stands as a distinct landmark in Figueres. The
architecture itself is a work of surrealist art. Inside, though, it is vital
that you look around you. If your focus is maintained solely on the artwork, you
will certainly miss the "Dali touches" that adorn the interior, including the
floors, walls and ceilings. The minute details and Dalianian touches are sure to
surprise and delight.
It is no secret that Dali was not only eccentric, but also somewhat egocentric.
He worked some aspect of himself into many of his works. While this did earn him
some degree of criticism from some, it made his works no less spectacular.
Keeping these traits in mind, though, when you wander down to the basement and
explore the galleries brimming with works that seem to be the product of a
psychological meltdown (as is true Dalianian style), you will eventually stumble
upon his crypt. How fitting! Even in death he still manages to shock and catch
you off guard!
The Dali Theatre-Museum is kid-friendly and a wonderful way to spend an
afternoon. Around each corner lies a new discovery, a fascinating optical
illusion, a stunning sculpture, a painting of melting things, you never know. To
step into the museum is to enter the surreal world that brings life to light in
ways you may never have dreamed of. Let your imagination guide you.
Opening Hours
During the peak tourist months of July to September the Dali museum opens
from 9am until 7.15pm. The rest of the year it is open from 10.30am to 5.15pm.
It closes on Mondays.
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