Baterbys, Orlando’s largest gallery and dealer of fine art, is opening its doors to the public once again--this time to view the largest number of works in a suite by Salvador Dali and the launching of the similarly-titled book “BIBLIA SACRA: Dali and His Bible”. Showcasing all 105 lithographs in Dali’s Biblia Sacra portfolio, the exhibition will kick off on Saturday, November 4, 2017 with an opening reception from 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm in the gallery showroom.

The exhibiting artworks constitute Dali’s largest suite of prints. Salvador Dali was commissioned by his friend and publisher, Dr. Guiseppe Albareto, to create 100 paintings based on select passages from the Latin Vulgate Bible. Albaretto himself was a devout Catholic and his intention in commissioning Dali for this massive undertaking was to bring the artist back to his religious roots. Completed in 1964, the project resulted in 105 images representing the artist’s interpretations of verses and event from the Holy Manuscripts.

Complementing the display of Dali’s depictions of verses and events in the Bible will be the 296-page hardcover book that was over 10 years in the making. Its creation entailed countless hours of research and interviews with experts around the globe and consulting with various museums and libraries in 3 continents. This book is the most extensive and comprehensive work on the subject. The publication includes religious and artistic discussions on the Bible verses and events that Dali picked to visually interpret. The text also details various symbolisms and subjects that inspired the artist throughout his career.

Also highlighting Baterbys’ second major event for 2017 will be a presentation on the artist and his career, a display of surrealist and Dali-themed décor, live musical performances, the presentation of the winners of the Local Artists Competition, a silent auction, photo booth, interactive public art project, booths from various sponsors and more.

This unique exhibition is being presented by Baterbys and other major sponsors to benefit the Florida Hospital Cardiovascular Institute (FHCI). Led by world-class cardiologists and cardiovascular surgeons, it is one of the largest and most comprehensive cardiac facilities in the country, treating more patients than any other hospital in the Southeast United States. Today, 40% of the U.S. population has cardiovascular disease. Your generous support not only allows to them to continue on their journey to excellence but makes a meaningful difference in the countless lives they touch each day.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and in Central Florida. According to Patricia Bornstein, Florida Hospital Foundation Development Officer, “funds raised for our Cardiovascular Institute increases our Hospital’s capacity to care for more patients, advances emerging technologies and innovative research, ensures uninsured patients have access to treatment, and supports our all-star physician team”. Salvador Dali once said, “A true artist is not one who is inspired, but one who inspires others.” It is through the arts and this partnership with the FHCI that Baterbys hopes to inspire others to give the gift of heart health. Dr. David Varnagy, one of Florida Hospital’s leading vascular surgeons added, “We do not create excellence alone. We need everyone’s support to help those in need get the best medical care available, and to ensure the health and wellness of future generations.”