The artwork titled “Tertia die resurrexit” was created by the renowned artist Salvador Dali between 1964 and 1967. This piece is a gouache painting, which is part of “The Biblia Sacra” series and falls within the genres of Abstract Expressionism and Symbolism. As a religious painting, it reflects Dali’s unique interpretation of biblical themes and showcases his distinctive style.
In the artwork, we observe a powerful expression of religious iconography, delivered through Dali’s abstract expressionist technique. The central focus appears to be an ethereal figure, possibly representing a divine or resurrected being, given the title’s reference to resurrection on the third day. Dramatic contrasts between light and dark areas are prevalent, with a luminous aura emanating from the figure. This light serves as a visual metaphor for spiritual awakening or resurrection.
The use of gouache lends a translucent and delicate quality to the colors, while the fluidity of the medium is evident in the splatters and drips that contribute a dynamic and uncontrolled element to the composition. This may imply the unpredictable nature of divine intervention or the human experience of the sacred.
Completing the scene are abstract shapes that seem to merge with the figure, perhaps symbolizing the dissolution of the physical form during a moment of transcendence. Despite being a religious painting, Dali’s approach evokes a sense of mystery and invites multiple interpretations, characteristic of Symbolist art. Overall, “Tertia die resurrexit” is a profound visual exploration of religious themes infused with Dali’s visionary style and abstract expressionist influence.
