Dexter Dalwood

Acquired directly from the artist by the present owner in 1998

London, Saatchi Gallery, 1999, New Neurotic Realism, u.p., illustrated in colour

Colour: The colours in the catalogue illustration are fairly accurate, although the pink floor is slightly brighter in the original. Condition: This work is in very good condition. Very close inspection reveals a minute rub mark to the lower left corner. No restoration is apparent when examined under ultraviolet light.
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In line with Dexter Dalwood’s distinctive depictions of imagined and constructed interiors Liberace Museum is a vibrant vision of the luxurious home of the grand pianist Valentino Liberace.

Employing the classical genre of ‘History Painting’, the artist references pivotal historic people and moments through an intricately woven web of elusive allusions and ingeniously codified quotations. Interlacing personal and social histories with illustrious art historical iconographies, Dalwood creates compelling and manifold painterly landscapes and interiors with subtle underlying meanings and interpretations. Impressive in their size and adept painterly technique Dalwood works resonate “with immediate painterly pleasure” (Tom Morton, ‘History of the Eye’, in: Exhibition Catalogue, New York, Gagosian Gallery, Dexter Dalwood, 2004, p. 3).

With elaborate details and an ineffable atmospheric presence Dalwood creates intimate and captivating ‘portraits’ of infamous personalities that have shaped our collective cultural memories. Infused with the artist’s sophisticated intellect and wit Liberace Museum is an intimate image of the eccentric pianist. Despite being devoid of any actual figure the master’s grand aura endures. The elegant black piano is placed on a glistening round floor, forming the focal point of the composition. Homage to the musician’s flamboyant personality the entire scene is bathed in a bright pink colour scheme and the traditionally masculine design of the classic pinstripe is rendered in a bold fuchsia. The expected decadence of a lavish showbiz residence is epitomised through the romantically gilded staircase and plush carpets.  

With its vivacious colouring and delicate details Liberace Museum is both a striking painterly vision and an intricately constructed historical portrait that beautifully exemplifies Dalwood’s unique ability to create an elaborate imaginative environment with a potent immediacy and verisimilitude.