NGV to get Salvador Dali painting, but needs $1.5 million in donations to pay for it

THE NGV has just secured a painting from one of the most famous artists of the twentieth century, the only problem is we still have to pay for it.

VICTORIA has been blessed with a new Salvador Dali painting at the NGV but director Tony Ellwood is hoping public donations amounting to $1.5 million will help it to remain.

One of the most famous artists of the twentieth century, Dali was a great champion of surrealism. This work, Trilogy of the desert: Mirage, would be a jewel in the gallery’s surrealist crown, already holding works by Rene Magritte, Max Ernst, Sidney Nolan, Marcel Jean and James Gleeson.

NGV director Tony Ellwood with Salvador Dalí’s Trilogy of the desert: Mirage, 1946.

Salvador Dali at work. Supplied by NGV

“The work of Salvador Dali has had an indelible influence on art movements, artists and pop culture that continues to this day,” Ellwood said.

All visitors to the gallery to see this Dali work are invited to make donations to help secure its place in the gallery’s collection.

NGV Foundation chairman Leigh Clifford said the strength of the gallery’s collection has been secured through philanthropy.

“We are seeking $1.5 million to ensure this important painting stays in Victoria and we warmly welcome contributions of any size,” Mr Clifford said.

This Dali painting was originally commissioned by Shulton Cosmetics to promote a new perfume known as Desert Flower. It shows a female clasping a blooming flower set in a desert.

Donations can either be made in person or on the NGV.Melbourne website.