Gallery 725 hosts Dali exhibit

Woman who grew up around Surrealist legend to speak

Salvador Dali devotees will want to make a point of visiting Gallery 725 this weekend to hear from Madame Christine Argillet, who has been called the last living link to the Surrealist master.

The daughter of Pierre Argillet, Dali’s publisher and confidante for more than 50 years, she will speak from Paris via satellite. Her presentation accompanies “Dali: The Argillet Collection,” an exhibition of 92 works by the famed artist, at the Jacksonville Beach gallery.

On display – and available for purchase – are numerous etchings and a few originals by Dali, all authenticated and autographed. An opening reception was held at the gallery on Friday, Jan. 28.

Dali arrives in Jacksonville

Gallery owners Shayna and Matt Winghart had been working to bring the show to the First Coast since the beginning of 2019. It was originally scheduled to go on exhibit in August 2020, but the pandemic intervened. With a vaccine still months in the future and questions about the risks of gathering in public, the timing was not right for the show.

But now, with the advent of vaccinations and a better understanding of the virus, businesses have found ways to remain open while keeping the public safe. And art venues are no exception.

So, after a long delay, the Wingharts have been able to proceed with their plans. And Dali fans have a rare opportunity to see these works at last.

“Considering that Jacksonville hasn’t seen a show like this in nearly a decade, we’re very excited and honored that they chose us to do the show,” Shayna Winghart said.

Christine Argillet is scheduled to speak during a trio of gallery receptions. The receptions are scheduled for noon to 2 p.m. and 5-6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 5, and 1-3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 6. To RSVP, contact the gallery at 904-345-9320 or gallery725@gmail.com.

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