St. Petersburg's Dali Celebrates 20th Anniversary

Consistently ranked as one of Florida's top attractions by Michelin guidebooks; the Salvador Dali Museum celebrates its 20th anniversary this month. This St. Petersburg landmark is well known for its comprehensive collection of Dali's works; and features 95 original oils, over 100 watercolors and drawings, nearly 1,300 graphics, plus numerous sculptures and photographs by the surrealist Spanish artist.

Donated to the city of St. Petersburg by A. Reynolds Morse and his wife Eleanor, the collection represents the culmination of a 45 year friendship between the Morses and Dali. From 1971 to 1980 the Morses displayed their collection in an office building in Beachwood, Ohio. They ultimately realized the collection had outgrown its space, so they sought out a new home for their treasures. Their ultimate goal was to donate the collection to a tourist-oriented community, in order to enhance the exposure of Dali's works. St. Petersburg seemed a logical choice. The Salvador Dali Museum was dedicated on March 10, 1982.

The collection is grouped chronologically, in galleries devoted to different periods of Dali's life. All periods are represented, and the collection even contains pieces form the artist's early and transitional periods. Dali is well known for his surrealist pieces and masterworks, which are both well represented in this collection. Dali considered a masterwork any piece that took more than a year to complete and measures at least five feet in any one direction.

Access at the Salvador Dali museum is excellent, with a level entry, barrier-free access to all areas. accessible restrooms and plenty of room to maneuver in the spacious galleries. Accessible parking is available in the museum lot.

The Salvador Dali Museum is located at 1000 Third Street South in St. Petersburg, Florida. From I-275, take exit 9 (I-175) to Fourth Street South, and follow the signs to the museum. Admission is $10. St. Petersburg's lift-equipped Looper Trolley also stops at the Salvador Dali Museum. For more information about the Salvador Dali Museum, or details about their 20th anniversary festivities call (727) 823-3767 or visit www.salvadordalimuseum.org.

St. Petersburg is located on the Gulf Coast of central Floria. Consult the Spring 2002 issue of Emerging Horizons for details about accessible tourist sites, transportation, hotels and a unique B&B in the St. Petersburg area.