‘Salvador Dali: The Image Disappears’ now at the Art Institute of Chicago

During the pivotal decade of the 1930s, Salvador Dalí emerged as the inventor of his own personal brand of Surrealism. And now, the Art Institute of Chicago presents the first exhibition devoted to the Spanish surrealist, “Salvador Dali: The Image Disappears” (now through June 12).

This exhibition presents more than 30 paintings, drawings, photos, and surrealist objects, as well as a rich selection of printed matter, books, and artists ephemera to explore this critical period, considering Dalí’s work in light of two defining, if contradictory, impulses: an immense desire for visibility and the urge to disappear.  

Here are tips on viewing the exhibition:

Do members need to purchase tickets to see Dalí?

No, members never need tickets for the museum or any special exhibitions. Members do still need to join the exhibition’s virtual line when they arrive at the museum.

Is there timed entry for the Dalí exhibition?

Because exhibition capacity is limited, the Museum is using a virtual line for Salvador Dalí: The Image Disappears, as they have for many popular exhibitions over the last three years. Entry is first-come, first-served via the virtual line and is not guaranteed.

What is a virtual line?

A virtual line is a waitlist that you join via your smartphone and that advances your spot in line while you do other things. So instead of having to stand in a physical line waiting to get into an exhibition, you can spend that time visiting old favorites or other current exhibitions. Your wait time becomes exploration time!

How do I join the virtual line?

Using the camera on your smartphone, scan the QR code located on signs near the museum entrances. This will prompt you to join the virtual line by selecting the exhibition and then entering the number of guests in your party. You’ll receive a text message confirming that you have joined the virtual line and another one letting you know when it’s your turn to enter the exhibition.

I don’t have a smartphone. How can I join the virtual line?

If you do not have a smartphone, connect with a museum representative for assistance.

How long should I expect to wait?

It depends on museum attendance on the day of your visit, but the exhibition has been reaching capacity for the day in the early afternoon. They recommend arriving at the museum early and joining the virtual line as soon as you arrive. The museum opens at 10:00 a.m. for members and 11:00 a.m. for the public. They also suggest Thursday evenings (between 5:00 and 8:00 p.m.) as a less crowded experience.

How do I know when I’m at the front of the line?

After you join the virtual line, you will receive a text message confirming that you are in the virtual line. When it’s your turn to enter the exhibition, you’ll receive another text message letting you know it’s time to head to the exhibition, which is in Gallery 289 on the second level of the Modern Wing. 

Do members need to join the virtual line

Yes, members need to join the virtual line. Membership staff are happy to support you if you need assistance or have any questions.

Do members have special viewing hours?

Yes, members have exclusive access to Salvador Dalí: The Image Disappears—and the entire museum—10:00–11:00 a.m. every day that we are open, Thursday–Monday. They recommend using the member hour to beat the afternoon rush. 

Are there events featuring the exhibition?

Yes, there will be a lecture given by the exhibition’s curators and two of their painting conservators on March 25. Registration is required. There are also a few drop-in gallery conversations on Surrealism on March 4 and March 18.

Check out the Museum calendar for more engaging offerings.

Is there an audio guide?

There is not an audio guide specifically for the exhibition, but they recommend the related “How to Make a Surrealist Artwork” audio tour to enjoy a quick intro to the museum’s renowned Surrealist collection. To access this audio tour—and all their audio tour content—simply download the free app, available for iOS and for Android mobile devices. Just be sure to bring headphones to listen while you’re in the galleries. And for another way to explore Surrealism that doesn’t require audio, check out the Museum’s Surrealism highlights.

(All info here: https://www.artic.edu/exhibitions/9713/salvador-dali-the-image-disappears)

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