About Salvador Dalí
Explore the extraordinary life and artistic journey of Salvador Dalí, from his birth in Figueres to
his lasting legacy as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
Life & Career Timeline
1904
Birth in Figueres, Spain
Salvador Felipe Jacinto Dalí i Domènech is born on May 11, 1904, in the small town of Figueres, Catalonia. He spends much of his youth in nearby Cadaqués, where his parents build him his first studio.
1922–1926
Art Studies in Madrid
Dalí attends the San Fernando Academy of Fine Arts in Madrid. His technical skills and unique personality begin to gain attention.
1925
First Solo Exhibition
Dalí holds his first one-man show in Barcelona, earning early recognition.
1928
International Debut
His work, including The Basket of Bread, is featured in the Carnegie International Exhibition in Pittsburgh, launching his international career.
1929
Paris Debut & Surrealist Connection
Dalí has his first Paris exhibition, joins the Surrealist movement, and meets Gala Eluard, who becomes his lifelong muse and partner.
1931
Creation of The Persistence of Memory
Dalí paints one of the most iconic surrealist works of all time: The Persistence of Memory, featuring melting clocks.
1934
Split from the Surrealists
Dalí is expelled from the Surrealist group due to political tensions, although he continues exhibiting surrealist works through the decade.
1940–1948
Exile in the United States
Dalí and Gala flee Europe during WWII, settling in the United States. This period proves formative for his fame and artistic direction.
1941
Major retrospective at the Museum of Modern Art, New York
A significant exhibition showcasing Dalí’s work at one of the world’s most prestigious art institutions.
1942
Publishes his autobiography
Dalí publishes ‘The Secret Life of Salvador Dalí’, offering insights into his artistic process and personal philosophy.
Late 1940s–1950s
Classic Period
Dalí enters his classical period, focusing on science, religion, and historical themes. He creates monumental works like The Discovery of America by Christopher Columbus, The Hallucinogenic Toreador, and The Sacrament of the Last Supper.
1974
Teatro-Museo Dalí Opens
Dalí opens the Teatro Museo Dalí in his hometown of Figueres, a grand showcase of his life and work.
1982
Gala’s Death
Gala dies, profoundly affecting Dalí’s health and marking the beginning of his decline.
1984
Fire at Púbol
Dalí is severely burned in a fire at his home in Púbol, further deteriorating his health.
1986
Final Retreat
Dalí receives a pacemaker and retreats from public life to Torre Galatea.
1989
Death
Dalí passes away on January 23, 1989, in Figueres, due to heart failure with respiratory complications.
Legacy
Dalí’s career spanned decades and mediums: from oil painting to film, sculpture, photography, and performance. He redefined modern art with surrealism, symbolism, and unparalleled draftsmanship, leaving a lasting mark on 20th-century creativity.