India, Nov. 14 -- From the surreal landscapes of dreams and mythology to experiments with science and literature, Salvador Dali's imagination knew few boundaries. Now, a rare collection of original works by the celebrated surrealist is set to bring a slice of that extraordinary artistic universe to Chandigarh, offering art lovers an opportunity to experience a lesser-seen chapter of his creative legacy. Titled 'Dali Dreams in Chandigarh', the exhibition will open today at 105 Arts gallery in Sector 11. Curated by Mehak Bhan, it will feature original etchings and gouaches from the Pierre Argillet Collection, a privately held collection shaped by the three-decade-long association between Dali and the Argillet family. The exhibition will make only two stops in India - Chandigarh and Mumbai - making its arrival in the city a significant cultural occasion. It also brings into focus the economics of art collection, with original Dali etchings starting from Rs.10 lakh. Christine Argillet, international curator, gallerist and custodian of the Collection, says, "The choice of Chandigarh is both cultural and strategic. The city has a sophisticated, well-travelled audience with an established appreciation for design, architecture and art, alongside a growing community of serious collectors and connoisseurs." Dali's fascination with the East, despite never travelling beyond Greece in that direction, adds another dimension to the exhibition, she says. "He imagined distant places through his own creative lens. Bringing his work to Chandigarh allows audiences to engage with that imagination from a completely different cultural perspective," Christine adds. As per Bhan, this showcase is a story about movement of art, ideas, people and legacy. "Owning one of Dali's works offers a tangible connection to his extraordinary imagination, artistic experimentation and enduring cultural legacy. It's like owning a piece of history," she says. The exhibition will be on view till November 30.HTC...