Salvador Dalí , "The Persistence of Memory" (1931)

From Surrealism to Magical Realism

by
Cathy Locke

The Surrealist art movement, which emerged in the early 20th century, remains one of the most influential and captivating movements in the history of art. Characterized by its exploration of the unconscious mind, dream imagery, and fantastical elements, surrealism sought to liberate the creative potential of the human mind from the constraints of reason and logic. This movement was not merely an artistic style but a revolutionary approach to understanding and expressing the complexities of the human psyche.

Surrealism had a profound influence on contemporary art, and its impact can be observed in various artistic practices. The movement's exploration of the subconscious, dream imagery, and the irrational has left a lasting legacy that resonates with many artists today. Key concepts surrealism brought to contemporary art include dreamlike imagery, symbolism, metaphor, and psychological exploration into unconscious realms. 

Surrealists were pioneers in experimenting with different media and techniques. Contemporary artists often embrace mixed media, collage, and unconventional methods to create visually striking and conceptually rich artworks. Some contemporary artists, especially women, have revisited and reinterpreted surrealist themes from a feminist perspective. They challenge traditional gender roles and stereotypes, reclaiming surrealist imagery to empower and subvert established norms.

The History of Surrealism
Surrealism had its roots in the Dada movement, which rejected conventional artistic and societal norms. The surrealists, led by the charismatic poet and theorist André Breton (1896-1966), sought to delve deeper into the realms of the unconscious, drawing inspiration from dreams, the irrational, and the uncanny. The movement officially coalesced with the publication of the Surrealist Manifesto in 1924, where Breton defined surrealism as "pure psychic automatism" and called for the exploration of the subconscious through artistic expression.

Yves Tanguy, "Mama, Papa is Wounded!" (1927), oil on canvas, Museum of Modern Art, New York

One of the key techniques employed by surrealist artists was automatism, a method that involved bypassing conscious thought to allow the unconscious mind to guide the creative process. Artists would let their hands move spontaneously across the canvas or paper, creating spontaneous and often bizarre forms. This technique aimed to reveal the hidden recesses of the mind, tapping into the mysterious and fantastical elements that lay beneath the surface of everyday reality.

Juxtaposing Reality
The dream world became a central theme in surrealist art. Artists sought to capture the enigmatic quality of dreams, where reality and fantasy intertwine seamlessly. Salvador Dalí (1904-1989), one of the most iconic figures of surrealism, painted vivid and meticulously detailed dreamscapes that defied the laws of physics and logic. His famous work "The Persistence of Memory" (1931) features melting clocks draped over a barren landscape, symbolizing the fluidity and subjectivity of time.

René Magritte, "The Son of Man" (1964)

René Magritte (1898-1967), another prominent Surrealist, explored the juxtaposition of ordinary objects in extraordinary contexts. In his painting "The Son of Man" (1964), a man in a bowler hat stands before a sea with a hovering green apple obscuring his face. The apple, a recurring motif in Magritte's work, adds an element of mystery and ambiguity, inviting viewers to question the nature of reality and perception.

Max Ernst, "Ubu Imperator" (1923), Musée National d'Art Moderne, Centre Pompidou, Paris

The surrealists also embraced collage as a means of creating unexpected connections and juxtapositions. Max Ernst (1891-1976), a key figure in the movement, developed the technique of frottage, where he rubbed pencil or charcoal over textured surfaces to create unpredictable patterns and textures. These spontaneous markings would then form the basis for his imaginative compositions.

Surrealism extended beyond the canvas to include literature, film, and sculpture. The movement's influence permeated various art forms, giving rise to surrealist poetry, automatic writing, and experimental films. Filmmakers like Luis Buñuel (1900-1983) collaborated with artists like Dalí to create groundbreaking films such as "Un Chien Andalou," which shocked audiences with its surreal and provocative imagery.

While surrealism reached its peak in the 1920s and 1930s, its impact has endured, leaving an indelible mark on the art world. The movement's legacy is evident in contemporary art, where artists continue to explore the subconscious, the dreamlike, and the irrational. Surrealism's ability to challenge conventions and reveal the hidden depths of human consciousness ensures its place as a transformative force in the evolution of artistic expression.

Joan Miró, "The Tilled Field" (1923–1924), Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

Prominent Artists
The Surrealist movement brought forth a plethora of talented and influential artists, each contributing to the exploration of the subconscious and the fantastical. Here are some of the most prominent surrealist artists:

1. André Breton (1896–1966): Often referred to as the "Pope of Surrealism," Breton was a French poet and writer. He played a crucial role in defining surrealism through his writings, including the Surrealist Manifesto, and was a central figure in the movement's intellectual and theoretical development.
2. Salvador Dalí (1904–1989): Dalí is one of the most iconic and recognizable surrealist artists. His meticulously detailed, dreamlike paintings, such as "The Persistence of Memory," often feature bizarre and distorted images. Dalí's eccentric personality further added to his celebrity status within the art world.
3. René Magritte (1898–1967): A Belgian Surrealist painter, Magritte is renowned for his enigmatic and thought-provoking images. His work often involves ordinary objects placed in unexpected contexts, challenging the viewer's perception of reality. "The Son of Man" and "The Treachery of Images" are among his famous works.
4. Max Ernst (1891–1976): A German artist and poet, Ernst was a key figure in Surrealism, contributing to the movement with his innovative techniques. He developed frottage and grattage, both involving unconventional methods of creating texture and form. Ernst's works, such as "The Elephant Celebes" and "The Horde," showcase his experimental approach.
5. Joan Miró (1893–1983): A Spanish painter and sculptor, Miró's works often feature playful and whimsical elements. His use of vibrant colors and abstract forms reflects a childlike spontaneity. Miró's notable surrealist works include "The Tilled Field" and "Harlequin's Carnival."
6. Yves Tanguy (1900–1955): Tanguy, a French painter, was known for his highly detailed and imaginative landscapes. His dreamlike compositions often feature otherworldly landscapes populated by strange and organic forms. "Mama, Papa Is Wounded!" and "Indefinite Divisibility" are representative of his surrealist style.
7. Man Ray (1890–1976): An American artist who spent much of his career in Paris, Man Ray was a versatile Surrealist known for his photography, painting, and avant-garde films. His works, such as "The Lovers" and "The Gift," showcase his ability to blend different mediums within the Surrealist aesthetic.
8. Leonora Carrington (1917–2011): An English-born surrealist painter and writer, Carrington's work often delves into mythical and magical themes. Her paintings, including "The Pomps of the Subsoil" and "The Lovers," exhibit a unique blend of symbolism and personal mythology.
9. Hans Arp (1886–1966): A German-French sculptor and poet, Arp was a founding member of both the dada and surrealist movements. His biomorphic sculptures and abstract reliefs, such as "Squares Arranged According to the Laws of Chance," exemplify his contributions to surrealist aesthetics.
10. Dorothea Tanning (1910–2012): An American painter, sculptor, and writer, Tanning was associated with Surrealism and later transitioned into abstract expressionism. Her notable works include "Birthday" and "Eine kleine Nachtmusik," which showcase her imaginative and dreamlike style.

These artists, among others, played crucial roles in shaping the surrealist movement, each bringing a unique perspective and contributing to the rich tapestry of surrealist art.

Leonora Carrington, "The Pomps of the Subsoil" (1947), oil on canvas

Influential Women Artists
Leonora Carrington and Dorothea Tanning were also close friends. Both artists were prominent figures in the Surrealist movement, and their paths crossed during their time in Paris.

Leonora Carrington, born in England, became associated with the surrealist circle in the 1930s. She was in a romantic relationship with the surrealist artist Max Ernst for a period, and their connection led her to the heart of the surrealist movement in Paris. However, Carrington's relationship with Ernst ended when he was arrested by the Nazis during World War II.

Dorothea Tanning, an American artist, also became involved with surrealism and moved to Paris in the 1940s. In 1942, she met Max Ernst, who had by then separated from Carrington. Ernst and Tanning eventually married in 1946, and the couple became a significant presence in the Surrealist art scene.

Despite the complexities of their relationships, Carrington and Tanning maintained a friendship. Their shared experiences in the Surrealist milieu, common interests in exploring the fantastical and dreamlike in their art, and their connections through Max Ernst likely contributed to their camaraderie. Both artists continued to create innovative and imaginative works, contributing to the legacy of surrealism.

Leonora Carrington created several notable and influential artworks throughout her career, but one of her most famous and iconic pieces is "The Pomps of the Subsoil." This painting, completed in 1947, showcases Carrington's unique and imaginative style within the Surrealist movement.

"The Pomps of the Subsoil" is a large, intricate work that features a dreamlike composition filled with symbolism and mythological elements. The painting depicts a fantastical scene with hybrid creatures, magical beings, and strange landscapes. Carrington's use of symbolism and her interest in mythology are evident in the way she combines disparate elements to create a mysterious narrative.

The title itself suggests a descent into the depths or subsoil, emphasizing the dreamlike and subconscious qualities that were central to Surrealist art. Carrington often drew inspiration from her interest in esoteric subjects, mythology, and her own personal symbolism, creating works that were both deeply personal and universally resonant.

While "The Pomps of the Subsoil" stands out as one of Carrington's most renowned works, her entire body of art includes paintings, sculptures, and writings that continue to captivate audiences with their imaginative and enigmatic qualities. Carrington's contributions to Surrealism and her ability to blend personal symbolism with broader themes make her a significant figure in the history of art.

Dorothea Tanning, "Birthday" (1942), oil on canvas, Philadelphia Museum of Art

Dorothea Tanning created numerous impactful artworks throughout her career, and one of her most famous and iconic pieces is the painting titled "Birthday." Completed in 1942, "Birthday" is considered a masterpiece of surrealist art.

"Birthday" is a dreamlike and enigmatic work that features a young girl standing in a mysterious room with open doors leading to other surreal spaces. The atmosphere is both eerie and fantastical, with a sense of tension and anticipation. Tanning's meticulous attention to detail and her ability to create a psychologically charged atmosphere contribute to the painting's lasting impact.

The girl in "Birthday" is often interpreted as a self-portrait of Tanning, symbolizing a moment of self-discovery and transformation. The open doors suggest the possibilities and unknown paths that lie ahead, adding to the painting's sense of ambiguity and introspection.

Dorothea Tanning's "Birthday" is recognized for its evocative power, rich symbolism, and its ability to capture the essence of Surrealist exploration into the subconscious and the dreamlike. The painting remains a significant representation of Tanning's artistic vision and her contribution to the surrealist movement.

Other Art Movements Influenced by Surrealism
Surrealism has had a profound impact on subsequent art movements and styles. These styles include magical realism, fantastic realism, neo-romanticism, and lowbrow or pop surrealism. These movements and styles may not replicate surrealism directly but have absorbed and transformed its principles, contributing to the evolution of art in the decades that followed the surrealist movement.

While there are similarities, it's important to note that magical realism and surrealism are distinct movements with unique characteristics. Magical realism often integrates magical elements seamlessly into the narrative fabric of everyday life, while surrealism may be more overtly dreamlike and symbolic.

Frida Kahlo, “What the Water Gave Me” (1938)

Hans Arp, " Scrutant l'horizon" (1967), The Hague

Summary
In essence, Surrealism's exploration of the subconscious, its embrace of the irrational, and its challenge to conventional norms have left an indelible mark on the art world. Contemporary artists continue to find inspiration in Surrealism's rich legacy while adapting its principles to address the complexities and concerns of the present day.