A rare collection of works by Salvador Dalí opens at West Chelsea Contemporary this weekend. The free exhibition, which runs from Jan. 11 through Feb. 2, pulls from the archives of the late Pierre Argillet, Dalí’s longtime publisher and confidant.
“This exhibit is unique to the gallery,” says curator Christine Argillet, Pierre’s daughter. “It includes several pieces never seen before, as well as my favorite work, Songs of Maldoror, based on the poet [Comte de] Lautréamont’s poems and songs. The book features 50 unique etchings, 42 of which date back to 1934. It’s often described as an elaborate autobiography and is a beautiful piece of art.”
“Masterpieces From the Argillet Collection” showcases over 100 hand-colored etchings and never-before-exhibited originals that reflect the surrealist master’s interpretations of literary classics and ancient mythology.
The exhibition will also include works by avant-garde contemporaries such as Hans Bellmer, Giorgio de Chirico, Leonor Fini, Man Ray, and Wassily Kandinsky. These pieces, also drawn from the Argillet Collection archive, provide context for Dalí’s contributions to the Surrealist movement, situating his art within a broader experimental narrative.
Each piece embodies Dalí’s signature dreamlike imagery and meticulous technique, offering an intimate look at his visionary artistry.
“Dalí was a dreamer,” Argillet says. “His work speaks to so many because of its dreamlike perspective. He made it accessible through his depictions.”
The exhibit also highlights the personal bond between the artist and his publisher, who produced over 200 works together between 1960 and 1974 and remained in touch until Dalí’s 1989 death. Christine, who grew up surrounded by the artist’s creativity, recalls of his playful nature: “My memories of Dalí are full of whimsy and fun. He was always so clever and mischievous, but you never heard him laugh. Even when telling a joke, he kept a straight face, and the only clue was the slight rise of his mustache.”
Argillet has preserved and exhibited these masterpieces globally, ensuring new audiences can explore the depth of Dalí’s work. This is a rare chance for collectors to acquire authentic works that merge art with history.
The exhibition is part of West Chelsea Contemporary’s mission to bring first-rate art to Austin, creating opportunities for residents and visitors to engage with influential artists.
“‘Salvador Dalí: Masterpieces From the Argillet Collection’ represents our commitment to bringing world-class art to Austin,” says Monica Quiñonez, West Chelsea’s director of marketing and communications. “We eagerly invite everyone to experience this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to both enjoy and collect Salvador Dalí’s masterpieces.”
“Salvador Dalí: Masterpieces From the Argillet Collection” is on display Jan. 11 through Feb. 2 at West Chelsea Contemporary.
This article appears in January 10 • 2025.