Let's Visit Salvador Dali's Home

Salvador Dali has always been an intriguing artist to me. Growing up, I remember him being somewhat scary and his artwork perplexing and disconcerting. As I evolved into an artist myself, I came to appreciate what he was attempting to do for art and the 'artist'. Dali was to 'crazy artist' as Dean Martin was to 'boozy crooner'. They both created personas that heightened their art and set them apart. Dali was never a phony because he knew the artist should be as free as possible. He was also a 'griefer' who spoke, painted (and acted) to truthfully for most people to bear. Whatever you think of his personality, his artistry was unmistakably unique and ground-breaking. I had always been influenced by his work but really didn't know how much so until I came here to Cadeques, Spain.

So lets pay a visit to Senor Dali at his casa in Port Lligat. You may tell him he is a 'great artist' but he'll probably say, "That's true... but you're still stupid!"

Begin with enjoying coffee and a croissant or perhaps a slice of pizza at the Dali statue located on the beach in the center of Cadaques.

Stroll up and over the crooked, stone street that leads to Port Lligat and look for Dali's white house among all the other white houses. Hint: Look for the house with the two silver heads on the roof.

Quietly amble up the steps leading to his front door.

Knock or bang loudly (depending upon your artistic temperament) at the front door because no doorbell is apparent. If so moved, shout "Hey Gala? Is Sally home!??!"

You would see this welcoming face.

Then you are welcomed (maybe) into this first room which was actually the only room in the house when Dali bought it as a young, struggling artist after being kicked out by his father.

After finding success, Dali expanded his one room house. Now you could be insulted and vexed in his new living room.

OR you could visit him in his studio.

Here was one of the last pieces Dali worked on. Apparently he was painting Bruce Jenner. It just shows you how ahead of his time Dali was.

As Dali made more money, he added several rooms accessible via strange hallways like this one.

One hallways will lead you to the serenity of his patio. Try to find the Michelin man if you can.

Or stroll through the large, terraced olive groves adjacent to the house.

Dali might ask you if you'd like a drink. If you say "Yes", don't be surprised if he knocks you into the pool.

There are strange rooms that double as art pieces every where on the property. This one is NOT the WC!

Here is Burning Man's father Sleeping Man.

Exit Dali's home and search for your pride/sanity in the waters just outside the house.

The End.