New Delhi, India – In a landmark cultural event, the vibrant capital of India is playing host to an extraordinary exhibition showcasing the rare and captivating works of surrealist master Salvador Dalí. “Dalí Comes to India” opened its doors at the India Habitat Centre’s Visual Arts Gallery on February 6th, 2025, and will continue to mesmerize visitors until February 13th. This is the first time that such a comprehensive collection of Dalí’s art has been displayed in India, making it a truly historic occasion for art enthusiasts and the general public alike.
The exhibition features a carefully curated selection of over 200 original works from the prestigious Pierre Argillet Collection. This collection, amassed by Dalí’s close friend, publisher, and collaborator Pierre Argillet, offers a unique glimpse into the artist’s creative genius and his exploration of the surreal realm. Among the highlights are Dalí’s iconic etchings, watercolors, and tapestries, including works from his renowned “Mythologie,” “Les Chants de Maldoror,” and “Faust” series. These works showcase Dalí’s fascination with mythology, literature, and the depths of the human psyche.
“This is a significant moment for art lovers in India,” says Christine Argillet, daughter of Pierre Argillet and the driving force behind the exhibition. “Dalí’s work is not just surrealism—it’s an exploration of the subconscious, of dreams, of the very essence of human creativity.” 1 Christine Argillet has dedicated her career to preserving and promoting her father’s collection, ensuring that Dalí’s artistic legacy continues to inspire and challenge audiences worldwide.
The exhibition has drawn large crowds since its opening, with visitors eager to immerse themselves in Dalí’s dreamlike landscapes and encounter his fantastical imagery firsthand. The intricate details of his etchings, the vibrant colors of his watercolors, and the sheer imaginative power of his tapestries have left viewers spellbound. Many have expressed a sense of awe and wonder at the opportunity to witness the works of such an influential and iconic artist.
“Dalí’s art is timeless,” says one visitor, “It speaks to the deepest parts of our minds, our fears, our desires, our dreams. It’s an experience that stays with you long after you leave the gallery.”
The exhibition also features works by contemporary artists who share a connection with Dalí’s surrealist vision. Yigal Ozeri, a New York-based painter known for his hyperrealistic portraits, presents “My Territory: India,” a series of paintings that capture the diverse landscapes and people of India with stunning detail. Swiss sculptor Dr. Gindi’s sculptures explore themes of human existence and transformation, echoing the introspective nature of Dalí’s work. The inclusion of these contemporary artists adds another layer of depth to the exhibition, creating a dialogue between the past and the present, and highlighting the enduring influence of surrealism in the art world.
“We wanted to create an experience that not only showcased Dalí’s genius but also explored the connections between his work and contemporary art,” says Motti Abramovitz, Owner & CEO of Bruno Art Group, the organization behind the exhibition. “By including artists like Ozeri and Dr. Gindi, we hope to provide visitors with a broader understanding of surrealism and its impact on art today.”
The “Dalí Comes to India” exhibition is not just a celebration of Salvador Dalí’s artistic brilliance; it is also a testament to the power of art to transcend cultural boundaries and connect people across continents. By bringing Dalí’s works to India, the Bruno Art Group and the Pierre Argillet Collection have created a unique opportunity for Indian audiences to engage with the surrealist movement and experience the transformative power of art.
As the exhibition continues its run in New Delhi, it is expected to attract even more visitors, further solidifying its place as a landmark cultural event in India’s art scene. The legacy of Salvador Dalí, the master of dreams and the subconscious, continues to inspire and challenge, reminding us that art has the power to unlock the hidden depths of our imagination and reveal the extraordinary within the ordinary.
