Karl Taylor Recreates Dalí Atomicus Without Cats
Photographer Karl Taylor has recreated Philippe Halsman's iconic 1948 photograph Dalí Atomicus, which shows Salvador Dalí mid-jump in front of a canvas. In Taylor's version, the flying cats from the original are replaced by a toaster and a melting clock reminiscent of Dalí's The Persistence of Memory. Taylor, a professional photographer and teacher known for capturing moving elements, documented the entire process in a video, from studying the model to building the set and making repeated attempts for the perfect shot. He stated that Dalí Atomicus has always been one of his favorite images and likely inspired his specialization in photographing breaking objects and moving liquids. The experiment was followed by a BBC crew.
Key facts
- Karl Taylor recreated Dalí Atomicus (1948) by Philippe Halsman.
- The original features Salvador Dalí jumping with flying cats.
- Taylor's version replaces cats with a toaster and a melting clock.
- The melting clock references Dalí's The Persistence of Memory.
- Taylor is a professional photographer and teacher specializing in moving elements.
- A video documents the recreation process from start to finish.
- Taylor cited the photo as a lifelong favorite and inspiration.
- The project was filmed by a BBC crew.
Entities
Artists
- Karl Taylor
- Philippe Halsman
- Salvador Dalí
Institutions
- BBC