Philadelphia Hosts International Exhibit Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100
Paris, Brussels, Madrid, Hamburg, Philadelphia: the chosen host cities of the most expansive and intriguing collections of artwork assembled to celebrate the beginning of the Surrealist artistic movement 100 years ago.
The Philadelphia Art Museum now exhibits Dreamworld: Surrealism at 100 as its final location in its tour across continents, a testament to Philadelphia's position as a hub for art and history that is recognized around the world. Initiated by the Centre Pompidou in Paris, France, this international ode to Surrealism commemorates the publication of Breton’s “The Surrealist Manifesto” in 1924 and the other amazing works created during that time period.
From Ernst to Dalí, Surrealist artists sought to look beyond reality and expose the unconscious through unexpected demonstrations of creativity, and a century later, their work still marvels and challenges audiences around the world.
GPA had the opportunity to hear from the curator of the collection at the Philadelphia Art Museum, Matthew Affron. He describes Surrealism as a true “expression of human freedom,” and invites visitors to consider how the exhibit reflects the mind of the artist but also their perspectives on the period of history in which they were creating their works. The collection features paintings, drawings, sculptures, and photographs– some you may love, some you may hate, but all are sure to intrigue.
The Philadelphia Dreamworld collection features over 130 works of art from over 70 artists; about one third of the collection is permanently housed at the Philadelphia Art Museum, showcasing the depth and relevance of the museum’s collection on the global artistic stage. Affron explained that “this exhibition is an opportunity to combine works that people who know our museum well will recognize, with tremendous loans from institutions and private lenders in Europe and North and South America, telling the story of Surrealism in a new way.”
World Heritage City sponsor and local consulting agency Athena Global Advisors sponsors the exhibit, which runs through February 16th.
Cover photo: The Pleasures of Dagobert, 1945, by Leonora Carrington (British, 1917-2011). Courtesy of the collection of Eduardo F. Constantini.
