The artwork “Untitled – Nude Figures after Michelangelo” was created by Salvador Dali in 1982. It is associated with the Expressionism art movement and falls into the genre of nude painting (nu). This piece reflects Dali’s unique interpretation of the human form, echoing the influential style of Michelangelo.
The artwork depicts a series of nude figures in various poses and stages of abstraction. The central figure appears to be a fusion of bodies, with an indistinct merging of limbs and torsos. The fluidity and distortion of these forms are characteristic of Dali’s surrealist techniques, though the piece is categorized under Expressionism, suggesting a focus on the emotional and psychological expression.
To the left, there is a figure that can be identified with a less abstract form, but still possessing exaggerated and extended limbs that convey a sense of movement and tension. The figures to the right present a gradation of dissolution, from a slightly more structured form to mere outlines and shapes that hint at the human anatomy.
The palette is subdued, primarily employing earth tones that provide a neutral background, allowing the forms to stand out. The brushwork varies from soft blending to more pronounced strokes, creating a textural contrast that adds to the dynamism of the composition. The overall effect is one of dreamlike interpretation, where Dali’s skillful manipulation of the figure challenges the viewer’s perception of the human body and classical art.
