OPEN AIR MUSEUM
Dali sculptures Marbella
Standing in the Avenida del Mar, you are probably wondering what those sculptures are and what they mean. They are the Salvador Dali sculptures and they offer a unique window into the artist's surreal and imaginative world. This open air museum in Marbella is showcasing these bronze sculptures, they are the artist's brilliance and his ability to transcend the boundaries of conventional art.
About Dali
Salvador Dalí (1904-1989) was one of the most famous figures in the world of art in the 20th century. He is best known for his surrealistic paintings, which are dream-like, unusual, and often hallucinatory images. Dalí’s art often draws on themes of subconsciousness, sexuality, and the bizarre. His most famous work, “The Persistence of Memory” (1931) features melting clocks.
Dalí’s personality was as flamboyant as his art, marked by attention-grabbing public actions and his trademark upturned waxed mustache. This aspect of his legacy gained further prominence following the launch of the popular Spanish TV series ‘La Casa de Papel,’ in which masks resembling Dalí became an iconic symbol. The mask is far more known than his sculptures, but the scupltures resemble Dalí on a different level. Below you will find a list of all the sculptures and their meaning:​
Perseus with the head Of Medusa
This sculpture is based on the Greek myth of Perseus, a hero who beheaded Medusa, a creature with snakes for hair whose stare could turn men to stone. Dalí’s interpretation of this mythological scene is likely to encapsulate themes of bravery and the triumph over evil.
Gala gradiva
Named after Dalí’s wife, Gala, this sculpture is a tribute to her. Gala was not only Dalí’s wife but she also played a important role in his creative process. The term “Gradiva” is derived from the Latin “gradus,” meaning ''she who advances''.
Mercury
This sculpture represents Mercury, the Roman messenger god, known for his speed and ability to move freely between the worlds of the mortal and the divine. In Dalí’s version, Mercury might symbolize communication, passion, and the flow of ideas.
Trajan on horseback
This piece depicts the Roman emperor Trajan, renowned for his military conquests and the expansion of the Roman Empire. Dalí’s rendition of Trajan could be seen as a nod to leadership, power, and the impact of historical figures on culture and society.
Dali's wife looking through a window
This is another homage to Gala, encapsulating her as an integral part of Dalí’s life and work. The window in the sculpture might represent a portal or a viewpoint, offering a glimpse into the personal and intimate world of Dalí through Gala’s perspective
Horse with stumbling rider
This sculpture portrays a horse and rider, but with a surreal twist. The rider is frozen mid-fall, and the horse's legs are elongated and distorted, creating a sense of unease and instability.
Cosmic elephant
This iconic sculpture features a majestic elephant with elongated legs, carrying an obelisk on its back. The obelisk, a symbol of time and eternity, stands in stark contrast to the elephant's earthly presence.
Man on dolphin
This sculpture depicts a man riding a dolphin, both figures rendered in a realistic style. However, the man's head is thrown back in ecstasy, adding a touch of the surreal to the otherwise classical scene.
Don Quixote seated
This sculpture pays homage to Cervantes's iconic character, Don Quixote. Dalí portrays him sitting on a rock, lost in thought, with his lance resting beside him. The sculpture captures the knight's idealism and melancholy.
Naked woman climbing the stairs
This piece captures the fluidity of motion and the human form in an almost ethereal manner, depicting a woman in the act of ascending, her body seemingly merging with the staircase itself.
A must-visit for art lovers and curious minds
The Salvador Dali sculptures in Marbella offer a rare opportunity to engage directly with the work of one of the 20th century's most iconic artists. Whether you're an art aficionado or simply someone in search of inspiration, a visit to this remarkable exhibition promises a journey through the depths of creativity and imagination. So next time you find yourself in Marbella, take a moment to wander through this open-air museum. It's an experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on your heart and mind.
In exploring these sculptures, we're reminded of the transformative power of art and its ability to connect us with the extraordinary, hidden within the fabric of our everyday lives. The Dali sculptures in Marbella are not just pieces of bronze; they are gateways to a world where imagination knows no bounds.
Want to know more about the history and tales of Marbella?
Marbella is a city with a rich tapestry of history waiting to be explored. From its early beginnings as a Phoenician settlement to its growth under Roman rule, and from the Moorish era to its modern-day allure as a glamorous resort town, Marbella's past is as colorful as its present. The city's historical journey is marked by architectural marvels, such as the remnants of Roman villas and the Moorish castle walls that whisper tales of a bygone era. The Old Town, with its narrow cobblestone streets and traditional Andalusian charm, offers a glimpse into a time when Marbella was a simple fishing village, long before the glitz and glamour. If you want to know more about the history of Marbella, we recommend booking a guided tapas tour.
Guided tour through the historic centre with three tapas stops
3 hr
75 euros
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