Toronto’s Brookefield Place is set to become a portal to another dimension this summer as it hosts the mesmerizing exhibit, DIVINA DALÍ. Get ready to explore the literary world of Dante Alighieri’s epic masterpiece, “The Divine Comedy,” through the enigmatic lens of Salvador Dalí’s surreal art. From Hell to Purgatory and finally, Paradise, this exhibit will take you on a captivating journey through 110 original illustrations that breathe life into the timeless poem.
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Running until September 30th, this exhibit is a celebration of Dante’s 700th anniversary, with Dalí’s unexpected and audacious illustrations taking center stage.
The Spanish Surrealist, known for his deviant lifestyle and rejection of religion, was an unconventional choice to illustrate Dante’s sacred work, making the collaboration all the more intriguing.
Step into the tripartite world of Dante’s passage, guided by the poet Virgil, where you’ll witness fiery landscapes of Inferno, the mountainous terrains of Purgatorio, and the ethereal beauty of Paradiso.
Italy’s national treasure, “The Divine Comedy,” has long been cherished by cultural institutions and the Roman Catholic Church, and now, you have the opportunity to witness it interpreted through the eyes of a master surrealist.
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Dali’s artistic prowess shines through his series of 100 watercolor illustrations, originally intended for a Deluxe edition of Dante’s masterpiece. Despite a public outcry and the Italian government’s cancellation of the project due to Dali’s unconventional lifestyle, the artist persevered and eventually showcased his illustrations in Paris. Fuelled by a rediscovery of his Catholic faith, a yearning for mysticism and redemption, and a personal connection with Dante, Dali brought forth a mesmerizing portrayal of the poet’s journey.
Creative producer Félix Bélanger hopes that visitors to DIVINA DALÍ will find relevance in Dante’s exploration of life and its parallels to the challenging times we’ve experienced recently.
Drawing connections between Dante’s journey and the year of confinement, Felix emphasizes the need to break free from screens and homes, just as Dante sought hope and joy in life.
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In contrast to the darkness of Inferno, Dante’s passage through Purgatory symbolizes self-realization and enlightenment. Climbing the towering mountain leads to intellectual, cultural, and spiritual elevation, freeing the mind from confusion and embracing a newfound clarity.
Ultimately, Dante finds himself in the all-encompassing light of Paradise, a reminder that humanity is devoted to light and love rather than being doomed to darkness.
Master of surrealism, Salvador Dali (1908-1989), communicates a universal artistic language that touches the hearts of people from all walks of life. His work transcends boundaries, sparking imaginations and taking audiences on journeys to the far reaches of the mind. Just like his literary counterpart, Dante, Dali’s art leaves ample room for interpretation, encouraging visitors to connect with the exhibit on a personal and profound level.
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So, come and immerse yourself in the mesmerizing world of DIVINA DALÍ at Brookefield Place, Toronto, until September 30th.
Rediscover the beauty of Dante’s Divine Comedy through the artistic brilliance of Salvador Dali and find hope, joy, and enlightenment in the captivating journey that awaits you.
Let the artistic melting pot of Toronto embrace you and kindle the flame of inspiration within your soul. Journey through the realms of Dante’s poetic masterpiece and awaken the boundless power of imagination within yourself.
DANTE ALIGHIERI X SALVADOR DALÍ
Two Astonishing Artists Separated by 700 Years Explore the Human Condition
DIVINA DALÍ
BROOKEFIELD PLACE
TORONTO / 181 Bay St.
DURATION
The experience takes 90 minutes.
INFO@DIVINADALI.COM
TIMETABLES
MON: CLOSED
TUE-WED
10AM-8PM
THU-FRI
10AM-9PM
WEEKEND
10AM-5PM
Box office opens 30 minutes before exhibition opening and closes 1 hour before exhibition closing.
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