Two new exhibitions opening at the Salvador Dalí Museum this fall will highlight the diverse ways Western and non-Western mythology enlivened Surrealism. Wifredo Lam in North America is the first U.S. exhibit in over 30 years to feature works by Lam, the celebrated 20th century Cuban-born artist. The exhibit focuses on Lam’s impact on the development of modern art in America, tracing the way in which he combined aspects of the European avant-garde with Afro-Cuban myths and art forms, leaving a legacy of intercultural dialogue that remains influential to this day. Over 50 paintings and drawings, together with photos and letters, will be shown in the museum’s west galleries. In our east galleries, the Dalí exhibition, Myth in Dalí’s Art, features a selection of works from the museum’s permanent collection, which examine how Dalí used mythology to embody his fears and desires. Both exhibitions are on display October 3, 2008 through January 11, 2009.

“Our Wifredo Lam exhibition continues the Dalí Museum’s program of exploring major figures of the avant-garde who share an historical moment and a cultural heritage with Dalí,” says Hank Hine, Dalí Museum Director. “The selection of Dalí’s work for the mythology exhibition allows us the opportunity to encounter familiar pieces with a fresh perspective and rediscover hidden treasures. And by presenting these two artists in tandem, visitors have the opportunity to experience the breadth of Surrealism, which can encompass stylistically the figuration these two artists approached so differently. We are delighted to bring these two pivotal artists together for the benefit of our community.”

Traces Gallery - check back for exhibition dates

Mabel Palacin, a mid-career Catalan videographer, was commissioned to create video projections which reflect her interpretations of Dali, the museum, its setting and the collection. Mabel Palacin’s recent video work grew out of her earlier interest in photography where she made large scale black and white images suggestive of film stills and celebrity photography in the tradition of Dali’s celebrity portraits as seen in Dali and Mass Culture. Curated by William Jeffett; organized by the Salvador Dalí Museum.

This exhibition is sponsored by Season Sponsor Progress Energy and made possible by SEACEX and the Generalitat of Catalunya.