Salvador Dalí has always fascinated me as both an artist and a personality. He wasn’t just known for his surreal paintings – he was a surreal figure himself. His wild energy, theatrical presence and unmistakable appearance made him one of the most recognisable artists in history. In this portrait, I wanted to capture not only Dalí’s likeness, but the intensity and unpredictability that seemed to exist behind his eyes.

The piece is painted entirely in black and white, allowing the focus to fall completely on expression, texture and contrast. Without the distraction of colour, every wrinkle, shadow and strand of hair becomes more dramatic and emotional. I was especially drawn to the almost shocked expression in Dalí’s eyes – a look that feels both curious and unsettling. To me, it reflects the surreal nature of his imagination and the way he viewed the world differently from everyone around him.

His messy hair and trademark moustache were essential elements of the portrait because they became symbols of his identity. I wanted the painting to feel raw and alive rather than overly polished, with expressive textures and movement throughout the surface helping to mirror the chaotic creativity Dalí was famous for.

This artwork is my interpretation of an artist who blurred the line between genius, performance and imagination. More than just a portrait, it’s a study of personality – capturing a moment where Dalí appears almost consumed by thought, emotion and the surreal world inside his own mind.