Salvador Dalí’s “Lincoln in Dalivision” is a fascinating and complex artwork that combines optical illusion, surrealism, and homage to multiple artistic influences. Created in 1977, it is a limited edition lithograph based on Dalí’s earlier painting “Gala Contemplating the Mediterranean Sea which at a distance of 20 meters is transformed into the portrait of Abraham Lincoln (Homage to Rothko)”.

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The artwork is a prime example of Dalí’s mastery in creating double images and optical illusions. When viewed from a distance of about 20 meters, the image transforms into a portrait of Abraham Lincoln. However, upon closer inspection, the viewer sees a collection of different pictures, including Dalí’s wife Gala looking out at the Mediterranean Sea.

The creation of “Lincoln in Dalivision” was inspired by a 1973 Scientific American article titled “The Recognition of Faces” by Leon Harmon. This article explored the concept of photomosaics and the minimum number of pixels needed to describe a unique human face. Dalí took on this challenge by creating a portrait of Lincoln using 121 pixels.

Mark Rothko, an abstract expressionist painter, had a significant impact on the creation of this artwork, despite not being directly involved in its production. The full title of the original painting that “Lincoln in Dalivision” is based on includes “(Homage to Rothko)” at the end. This homage is multifaceted:

First, Artistic Influence: The painting incorporates elements reminiscent of Rothko’s style, particularly in its use of color fields and abstract forms.

Second, Contemplation of Mortality: Rothko committed suicide in 1970, several years before Dalí began this painting. By referencing Rothko, Dalí introduces themes of life, death, and artistic legacy into the work.

Next, Generational Connection: Rothko was of the same generation as Dalí, and his death likely had a profound impact on Dalí and other contemporary artists.

And finally, Artistic Dialogue: By paying homage to Rothko, Dalí engages in a dialogue between surrealism and abstract expressionism, two significant movements in 20th-century art.

The inclusion of Rothko in the artwork’s concept adds layers of meaning to “Lincoln in Dalivision.” It becomes not just an exercise in optical illusion and perception, but also a meditation on artistic influence, mortality, and the nature of vision itself. The juxtaposition of Rothko’s abstract style with Dalí’s precise surrealism creates a rich tapestry of artistic reference and homage.

“Lincoln in Dalivision” has become one of Dalí’s most sought-after and, unfortunately, most counterfeited works. Its complexity and the technical skill required to create such an intricate optical illusion have made it a subject of fascination for art enthusiasts of all stripes.