Constructing of the narcissistic artistic character in the autobiography of Salvador Dali: Salvador Dali with an insight into the painting metamorphosis of narcissus, and the Dali museum/bequests

Abstract

By applying the methodology of transdisciplinary studies, this work examines the phenomenon of Narcissism and narcissistic artistic character in the autobiography of Salvador Dali "I am the genius" (The Secret World of Salvador Dali), in the paining "The Metamorphosis of Narcissus", and in Dali's original poetry through the prisms of mythology, psychoanalysis and psychosexuality by constructing of the narcissistic character (artistic "Persona") as a model for identity strategies in contemporary art practices. The text is analysing some of Dali's unique personality characteristics and creative and personal expression, with a special insight into his childhood and the term of narcissistic personality structure according to Sigmund Freud, also analysing the key-role of Gala Dali. The text includes some postulates of the art movement of Surrealism that Dali applied in his work, from the "Surrealism Manifesto" and the Surrealism practices. In a case study, the text analyses the painting "Metamorphosis of Narcissus", its content, symbolism, style and visual elements. A possible influence of Sigmund Freud is described, and Dali's original method of "Critical Paranoia" is elaborated. The closing sections are describing the fascinating dimensions of the personality cult that Dali and his narcissistic character reached in the last years of his life. A special focus is made on the musealisation of Dali - his numerous museums and bequests, memorials and collections, the founding of which has contributed to the building of a permanent monument to the artist and finally to the establishment of his status of a mythical personality - the "Dali" brand.