One side trip we took while we were in Barcelona earlier this year was a visit to Figueras. The only reason to visit that place is the Dalí Theatre-Museum (El Teatre-Museu Dalí), the largest surrealistic object in the world. I came to see this place many years ago but did not mind revisiting. It has a geodesic dome, gold-colored mannequins, and a dozen giant eggs on top, while the perimeter wall is studded by an array of croissant-like baked products.
It occupies the building of the former Municipal Theatre, a 19th century construction which was destroyed at the end of the Spanish Civil War. On its ruins, Dalí decided to create his museum. This inner courtyard is to me the most interesting space.
Inside this classic American car, is a mannequin and a sprinkler system which can be turned on by inserting coins into a slot next to the driver. The effect is raining inside a car. Surreal ?
There are rows of waving gold-colored faceless mannequins which remind me of the Academy award statutes. High up is a boat dripping thick drops of blue liquid, and beneath it a fat lady standing on a black car.
Several pieces are massive, occupying several floors …
Lincoln ? Gala ?
The museum was a bit of a let down, especially the paintings. The pieces do not seem as impressive and I believe the best are displayed elsewhere. Perhaps I had too high an expectation – likely a by-product of only vaguely remembering how I enjoyed the previous visit.
The patches of feather on the wall behind the bust are stuffed pheasants and those black dots on her face are painted ants (below).
Below is a construction of Mae West’s face as viewed through a lens while standing on a platform.
The painted ceiling of a room depicting Dali and Gala going to heaven.
What turned out to be more interesting is what lies next door, an exhibition of jewelry designed by Dali. Next post.