life journey: Urban Sketches

Thursday, August 14, 2014

Catalonia Summer

Learning about Art History in Malaysia Institute of Art ( 1992-1995) used to be the hardest subject for me. Being poor in English made it much more difficult, I could not understand much when lecturer explained. I even find that it was so tough to read art history book in the past. But, I know, learning is a life time process! I will get there eventually.

Slides presentation by Mr Lok How Yuan during Art History lesson wasn't really appreciate by me at that time in that dark, freezing classroom . So much to remember, so much to learn. But now, I must say: " Thank you, Mr Lok! It was you the one who connected me to this part of world. A world of infinity creation!"

The Persistence of Memory by Salvodor Salvador Dalí, is the painting that stay with my memory since my study in MIA. Dali's style is like photo realism, it make me think. But, I can only "tried" to understand about his feeling, his way of expression and stories in his art. Until, I am there, in Figueres, Cadagues and Port Lligat. Physically stood right in his living room, bed room, balcony and his studio. Looked out from the window....I took a deep breath. I stood still, wide opened my mouth. I recognised the blue sky, the sea, the rock, the bay and the island have been represented in several of Dali's work ~ The Madonna of Port Lligat, Crucifixion (Corpus Hypercubus), and The Sacrament of the Last Supper.

Sunlight came through the glass, shined into Dali's studio, on his brushes, mediums for oil colours just as he left them. I imagined he is here, seating in front of one of his last work, on the pulling system he used for working. It was 1930, dali bought simple shack. This shack has been created to a piece of magnificent art by Dali. Every single part in the house is amazing. Decades, Dali lived and worked until the death of his muse Gala in 1982.

Walked in Dali's home and museum twice in 2 years. It's just more than i can tell. I remember my first travelled to Figueres from Bacelona alone in 2012. Sat in the train, I started my "thinking". "The Thinking" have magically connected me to many beautiful people in Figueres.

The miraculous night that I met Mr Luis Duran, who were so kind and devotion to my sketches; The corner of the street at Duran Hotel & Restaurant where Mr Duran waited for me on the breezing morning; The magical moment I sat in El Celler; A wonderful meeting with gentle and interesting man Joan Vehi, who was photographer and carpenter for Dali; The handsome and creative writer Martí Dacosta who also the owner of Dalícatessen......and the charming, beautiful young adults who enjoyed sketching Sant Pere church with me. I am beholden to the delicate people I met in Catalonia. For what they have done, shared and guided, they had shown me the path, lead me to Dali's footsteps.

Learning Art History in lives was what I looking forward for years. Even though at that moment in time, I was excited, nervous and worry on my "little" adventure in Figueres. But then...deep is my heart, I know that's "The Way". I would never have imaging myself in where Dali painted. The "Catalonia Summer" was one of my dream came true.

I would like to rejoice this happiness to my dear family members, teachers and friends who have supporting me in this "art journey", their supports have determine my path.