The secret is out!
The 1842 Johnstone and Wilmot building, located on Cimitiere Street Launceston, will accommodate a new art museum called dAda mUse, presenting Australia’s largest Salvador Dalí works on paper collection.
“The Johnstone and Wilmot building is one of Launceston’s most historically significant buildings. It has been meticulously refurbished to retain historic features while providing new spaces including the art museum’ said dAda mUse Collections Manager Amy Bartlett. ‘People interested in Tasmania’s history and architecture will be attracted to the building, however it is the magnificent art collection that will evoke interest and engage viewers.”
“While artworks from other artists will be shown periodically at dAda mUse, it is the Salvador Dalí collection that is exceptional. Most of these artworks have not been shown publicly and will draw national and international visitors,” said Amy.
Artist Salvador Dalí was born 11 May 1904 and died 23 January 1989. Born in Figueres Spain, he was the son of Salvador Dalí Cusí and Felipa Doménech Ferrés. Dalí showed signs of eccentricity and creative talent from a young age, which his parents supported. He contributed to the Dadaism art movement before subscribing to Surrealism from the 1920s. Both Dadaism and Surrealism used shock, the juxtaposition of everyday objects, and humour to create abstract imagery. Salvador Dalí married Gala (born Elena Ivanovna Diakonova) in 1934. Gala became Dalí’s muse and appears in many of the artworks.
Launceston Mayor Danny Gibson said he was delighted to see a major new cultural offering opening its doors in the city. “Launceston is a growing visitor destination, which is known for its heritage, artistic and culinary attractions.”
“The addition of dAda mUse to our city — a showcase of internationally recognised works by a globally renowned artist — is incredibly exciting.”
“Additionally, it’s wonderful to see one of the city’s most historic and charming buildings, the Johnstone and Wilmot building, getting a new lease on life.”
dAda mUse is located at 121 Cimitiere Street, Launceston and opens to the public from Wednesday 5 April 2023. The art museum will be closed for the Easter weekend and will re-open from Wednesdays to Sundays from 12 April 2023.
For more information about dAda mUse, including opening hours, visit dadamuse.com.au
Image: The Examiner Newspaper, Wednesday 29 March 2023