The artwork entitled “The First Day of Spring” was created by Salvador Dali between 1922 and 1923. This piece manifests elements of Cubism and Expressionism, laid out on a 20.8 x 15 cm canvas using gouache, ink, and paper as mediums. Belonging to the cityscape genre, the artwork is housed at the Dalí Theatre and Museum in Figueres, Spain.
Upon examination, the artwork is a fragmented composite of various scenes and elements that intertwine in a seemingly chaotic yet orchestrated manner, characteristic of Cubist influences. The color palette is somewhat muted, with an emphasis on earthy tones punctuated by instances of more vibrant hues. This piece is an early example of Dali’s work, showcasing the nascent experimentation with form and perspective that would come to define his later, more Surrealist output.
Individual elements within the composition, such as architectural structures, human figures, and natural motifs, intersect with each other, creating a spatial ambiguity typical of Cubist works. These intersecting planes are superimposed in a manner that suggests a multiple-point perspective. Some figures appear to be engaging in their own isolated narratives, contributing to the overall motion and dynamism of the scene. The presence of foliage and outdoor settings implies the eponymous reference to spring, suggesting a rebirth or awakening that aligns with the themes of Expressionism, where emotional experience is often conveyed through such depictions.
This early work by Dali exhibits his exploration of avant-garde styles before he fully embraced the Surrealist movement, which he is most famously associated with.
