KNOW DALI & His Art Influenced by Sigmund Freud * Lecture & Slideshow

EVENT DETAILS
Monday, October 27, 2025
17:00 H - 5pm
10€
BENITACHELL 
(Boardroom of Benitachell Properties SL)
Carrer Pare Plácido, 57, 03726 


INTRODUCTION 

DALÍ & FREUD

In this lecture, you will discover how Salvador Dalí became the first visual artist of his era to seriously question and pictorially document Sigmund Freud’s groundbreaking theories of the mind. Dalí’s fascination with psychoanalysis shaped the very foundations of his Surrealist style, offering him a language to explore hidden desires, fears, and the dreamlike states of the subconscious.

This presentation will trace Freud’s influence on Dalí, with special attention to concepts such as Free Association, where random thoughts and images are allowed to flow unfiltered, and Dream Painting, which Dalí used to capture the bizarre, illogical, and deeply symbolic world of dreams. Along the way, Karla will dive into Dalí’s playful yet profound experiments with Freud’s ideas, illustrated through his unforgettable stories, eccentric personality, and of course, his spectacular art.

By the end, you will see how Dalí transformed Freud’s psychology into a vivid visual universe—where melting clocks, burning giraffes, and dreamscapes became portals into the mysteries of the subconscious.


REVIEWS 

"I didn’t appreciate Dalí’s artwork before, but now, oh my God, I see it with completely different eyes! Karla is an amazing teacher with a beautiful, engaging presentation. I can’t wait for more lectures; they are truly nourishment for the soul. What do I love about Karla’s teaching style? Everything!"

* Veerle Vermoesen, Javea


"Salvador Dalí: Madman or Genius?
His paintings may appear chaotic and psychedelic to my untrained eye. Karla clearly explains his obsessions and phobias, which manifest as symbols within his artwork. As the 20th century's progressed, so did his creativity.

His obsession with Freud and finally adopting a scientific outlook changed his approach to his work. Karla is knowledgeable and enthusiastic, effectively conveying that passion to the class participants.
The lectures are enlightening and enjoyable. I highly recommend Karla's classes."

* Hilary Coward

 

" Yet another fascinating and inspiring lecture where I became fully immersed in the life of another artist this time, Salvador Dalí. Karla introduces him like a long-lost friend, sharing personal anecdotes with infectious enthusiasm and excitement. I am now a dedicated follower of hers and cannot wait for the next lecture! I love her teaching style, especially her enthusiasm, and I would absolutely recommend her to everyone!"

* Sue Martin 



"I learned quite a few fascinating facts about Spanish history and how it is reflected in Dalí’s paintings. It was enlightening to discover how and why Dalí became the artist he was, where his symbols came from, and what they mean—giving me a deeper understanding of his work.

I am also looking forward to Karla’s next lecture, which will explore Dalí’s evolving worldview, his interest in metaphysics, and how these ideas influenced his creations.

Karla’s teaching style is clear, personal, and engaging, with concise explanations of the historical context and circumstances of the era.

We would definitely recommend her educational sessions!"

* Genevieve & David Lawrence



"The Dalí lecture was both fascinating and highly engaging, introducing many little-known facts. I learned a great deal about Dalí and can now more fully appreciate his art throughout his life and I never knew that about cherries!

The slides greatly enhanced the learning experience, and I really enjoyed Karla’s enthusiasm and evident love for the subject. I would highly recommend her educational sessions."

* Helen, Alcalalí


"Karla's lecture gave me a huge insight into the life of Dalí and his art. The session was held in a comfortable, relaxed atmosphere with excellent visuals, surrounded by people genuinely interested and drawn in by Karla’s enthusiasm, deep knowledge, and love of fine art. I would definitely recommend her lessons!"

*Diana Santiago – Jávea



"I learned that Dalí was greatly influenced by Freud, and Karla clearly explained the symbolism in his art. I enjoyed both the style and content of the lecture, and it left me eager for the second part. Karla’s teaching style is relaxed and accessible to everyone. I highly recommend her educational sessions."

*Laura Aldridge, Benidoleig



"Today I learned all about Dalí and the various influences on his life. The lecture was delivered in down-to-earth language that anyone can understand. I enjoyed learning not just about his art, but also about the artist himself—his friends, his family, and the people who shaped his work—all shared with enthusiasm and a touch of dry humour. I would absolutely recommend Karla's lectures."

*Jean and Chris Gray, Benitachell


"Excellent course on Salvador Dalí! Karla’s teaching was top-class and full of enthusiasm, set in a very welcoming atmosphere where everyone felt comfortable and included. I signed up partly because art is interesting and inspiring, and to meet new people but I received far more than I expected. Highly recommended!"

*Janni Warrer Hansen

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APPRECIATE ART & CULTURE * LOVE SPAIN
Resource Books written by
Karla Ingleton Darocas 
and published by
SpainLifestyle.com 

CLICK  HERE *

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Joaquín Sorolla Exhibition at the Fundación Bancaja, Valencia

Recently, I had the great pleasure of visiting the Joaquín Sorolla exhibition at the Fundación Bancaja in Valencia with nine of my students. It was a truly remarkable experience. For me, it was especially thrilling to encounter several paintings that have long remained in the Sorolla family’s private collection, works that earned recognition and awards in academic exhibitions not only in Spain but across Europe and the United States.

KNOW DALI & How Science Influenced his Art * Lecture & Slideshow

EVENT DETAILS
Monday, November 3, 2025
17:00 H - 5pm
10€
BENITACHELL 
(Boardroom of Benitachell Properties SL)
Carrer Pare Plácido, 57, 03726 


INTRODUCTION

MASKS OF THE YOUNG PICASSO


I AM STRUCK by the composition and spatial distancing of the characters in Picasso’s 1900 painting, "Pierrot and Colombina", which creates an interplay that seems to mirror his own sense of being an outsider. Pierrot and Colombina, the central figures in this work, are not inventions of Picasso’s imagination but rather theatrical archetypes from the Italian Commedia dell’Arte, which migrated across Europe and became immensely popular in Paris by the late 19th century.

Picasso’s Child with a Dove

IN 1901, PABLO PICASSO was barely twenty years old, brilliant, ambitious, and already restless. He had left Spain to chase success in Paris, where modern art was reinventing itself in the cafés and galleries of Montmartre. But that same year, his closest friend, Carlos Casagemas, took his own life, a loss that left Picasso heartbroken and profoundly changed. Standing between youthful optimism and personal grief, he created Child with a Dove, a painting that captures both innocence and the first shadow of sorrow.

FALL 2025 LECTURE AGENDA

Mondays @ 5pm 
(Boardroom of Benitachell Properties SL) 

JÁVEA Historical WALK


Explore and Learn About JÁVEA by visiting its historical architecture and monuments 
* Guide * Arts Historian, Educator & Author - Karla Ingleton Darocas, B.A. (Hons) 

BOOKING INFO & FORM

ANTONI GAUDI * Part One * Lecture & Slideshow

 
EVENT DETAILS 
Monday, November 10, 2025
17:00 H - 5pm
10€ Donation
BENITACHELL
(Boardroom of Benitachell Properties SL)
Carrer Pare Plácido, 57, 03726



INTRODUCTION


ANTONI GAUDI * Part Two * Lecture & Slideshow

 
EVENT DETAILS 
Monday, November 17, 2025
17:00 H - 5pm
10€ Donation
BENITACHELL
(Boardroom of Benitachell Properties SL)
Carrer Pare Plácido, 57, 03726



INTRODUCTION


Spain’s Arts & Architecture Appreciation Classes

📬 Join Now & Get Updates, FREE Educational Arts Articles and Lecture Invites Directly to Your Inbox!
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Discover Spain’s Arts & Architecture with Appreciation Classes by Karla Ingleton Darocas, BA (Hons)

Unlock the beauty and stories behind Spain’s most iconic artists and architects — from the bold brush strokes of Velázquez and Goya to the visionary designs of Gaudí and beyond.

These inspiring classes take you on a visual journey through Spain’s great art movements, masterworks, and architectural marvels.


🏛️ What You’ll Experience

✔️ Explore the lives and works of Spain’s legendary artists

✔️ Decode the symbolism, styles, and techniques of major art movements

✔️ Learn how architecture reflects history, power, faith, and innovation

✔️ Enjoy captivating full-screen slideshows and passionate storytelling

✔️ Join a friendly, curious community of culture lovers


📍 Class Info

🗓 Mondays at 5:00 PM

📌 Venue: Boardroom at Benitachell Properties SLC
Carrer Pare Plácido, 57, Planta Baja, 03726 Benitachell, Alicante, Spain

📚 Classes resume in September 2025

Instructor: Karla Ingleton Darocas, BA (Hons)
📧 Email: info@SpainLifestyle.com
📱 WhatsApp: +34 648 156 066


🌟 Art comes alive when you understand its roots.

Join to see Spain through a new lens — insightful, inspiring, unforgettable.


Discover Sorolla: Bancaja Foundation


THIS OCTOBER 2025, we have a very special opportunity to continue our exploration of Joaquín Sorolla’s art outside the classroom. As many of you know, the Sorolla Museum in Madrid is temporarily closed for renovation and expansion. Because of this, an extraordinary collection of Sorolla’s masterpieces will be traveling to Valencia for a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition at the Bancaja Foundation, opening on October 3, 2025.

The exhibition will bring 60 of Sorolla’s most representative masterpieces, including two of my all-time favorites such as Paseo a la orilla del mar (Walk by the Sea) and El baño del caballo (The Horse’s Bath). These are rarely shown outside the Sorolla Museum, so to see them in Valencia is truly fabulous. 

*******
APPRECIATE ART & CULTURE * LOVE SPAIN
Resource Books written by
Karla Ingleton Darocas 
and published by
SpainLifestyle.com 

CLICK  HERE *

*******

The Silent Suffering of Childhood in Sorolla's Spain


DURING THE PERIOD of the great Valencian painter and humanist Joaquín Sorolla (1863-1923), children's health and social problems were an important issue, and his artwork reflects the harsh realities faced by the most vulnerable members of society. Sorolla's compassionate and often stark portrayals of sick or impoverished children, such as in "Sad Inheritance" (1899), served as a powerful form of social commentary, bringing to light the devastating effects of diseases like polio.

El Beso and Ferrándiz Bádenes

BREAKING NEWS!

The Bancaja Foundation of Valencia has extended the fabulous exhibition “Scenes and Landscapes in Valencian Painting. 19th and 20th Centuries”, which opened on May 9, 2025, until October 19, 2025!

This is such an exciting opportunity to dive into the rich world of Valencian art and experience masterpieces up close. 

Among the incredible works on display is El Beso by Bernardo Ferrándiz Bádenes, a painting that captures all the warmth, tradition, and storytelling of the costumbrista style.

DO YOU KNOW ABOUT XÀBIA’S CORDELEROS?


WHEN I AM taking participants on my walking class around the old town of Xàbia (Jávea Historical Walk), I often remember to tell them about the hemp industry that was once a thriving part of village life. 

WHAT WAS CLOTILDE WEARING ON HER STROLL THROUGH THE KING’S GARDENS?


In the summer of 1907, Joaquín Sorolla moved with his entire family to La Granja de San Ildefonso, where he had been commissioned to paint a portrait of King Alfonso XIII. During this stay, Sorolla also captured a portrait of his wife, Clotilde, dressed in the latest Parisian Belle Époque fashions, as she leisurely strolled through the palace gardens. 

Sorolla’s Patriotic Scene

 
“The Cry of Palleter ” 1884, oil on canvas, 
152 x 202 cm. Valencia Provincial Council.

AT THE CENTRO CULTURAL BANCAJA in Valencia, I found myself once again face to face with Joaquín Sorolla’s El grito del Palleter (The Cry of the Palleter), painted in 1884. It was included in the exhibition Scenes and Landscapes in Valencian Painting. 19th and 20th Centuries, a marvelous collection of works that shows the breadth of romantic and realist traditions in Valencian art.

Tribute to the Toil of the Reapers


RECENTLY, when I was at a fabulous art show in Valencia, I got to witness up close the grandeur of a social realist and luminous painting by Vicent Castell i Domènech (1871–1934). It struck me immediately as a tribute to the value, suffering, and eventual uprising of the Catalonian reapers.

From Posters to Petals: Learning the Story of Valencia’s Gran Fira




WHEN I WAS IN VALENCIA recently, I went to an art show where I discovered these magnificent vintage posters. It was the first time I learned about the history of the Gran Feria de València, the great July celebration of flowers and festivities.

Exploring the Royal Marsh of Gandia: A Serene Escape into Nature

 



On a sun-drenched day with just the right touch of breeze, the Royal Marsh of Gandia offered an ideal setting for a tranquil day trip filled with natural beauty and cultural charm.

*Report & Photos by Art Historian and Educator Karla Darocas, B.A. (Hons)*  

Sueca: A Journey Through Modernist Architecture, Local History, and Artisan Chocolate

If you enjoy exploring towns rich in history, distinctive architecture, and authentic local experiences, Sueca, a medium-sized city in the Valencian province, should be on your itinerary. Just 30 minutes south of Valencia city, this charming destination offers a surprising mix of agricultural heritage, Modernist architecture, and artisan chocolate-making.

*Report & Photos by Art Historian and Educator Karla Darocas, B.A. (Hons)*  

Fontilles: A Hidden Sanctuary of Healing and Hope


High in the verdant mountains behind the village of Orba, nestled within the dramatic, sun-dappled slopes of the Alicante province, lies a place unlike any other—a place of silence, serenity, and sacred history. 

This is Fontilles, a tranquil sanctuary perched in the municipality of La Vall de Laguar. For over a century, it has stood as a symbol of compassion, resilience, and enlightened care for society’s forgotten souls.

Exclusive Private Screening * The Way*


The Way is an inspiring and visually stunning film directed by Emilio Estevez and starring Martin Sheen. 

The Missing Half of Juana la Loca’s Story—And Her Surprising Connection to Jávea


The story of Juana la Loca is one of power, betrayal, and suffering, and it extends far beyond the passionate heartbreak depicted in the film. 

Award Winning Film - Juana la Loca (2001) Español - English Subtitles


Don’t miss this chance to experience the beauty of Spanish history, culture, and romance on a big screen. Historian Karla Ingleton Darocas, BA (Hons) will be on hand to give insights and answer any questions!

Spanish Historical Romanticism Painting


Introduction to Spanish Romanticism in Painting

Spanish Romanticism in painting, emerging in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, was a response to political upheaval, national identity struggles, and evolving artistic influences from Europe. Unlike the structured realism and compositions of Neoclassicism, Romanticism embraced emotion, drama, and individuality, often highlighting Spain’s historical past, cultural traditions, and exoticism. 

Several distinct movements developed, each reflecting different aspects of Spanish Romanticism.

Rococo

Immersive Journey into the Rise and Fall of Rococo in Spain! 


Step into the splendor of 18th-century Spain as we explore the captivating rise and dramatic fall of the Rococo style. 

José de Ribera


José de Ribera (1591–1652) was a master of the late Renaissance and early Baroque periods. His work is relatively easy to grasp within the context of the Baroque era, a time when the Catholic Church employed art as a powerful tool of propaganda—reminding the faithful of the saints' suffering under Roman persecution, reinforcing religious devotion, and countering the influence of Protestantism.

What stands out about Ribera is not only his command of Caravaggio’s dramatic chiaroscuro but also his unique position outside the traditional court system. Unlike court painters who were often confined to formal portraits and official commissions, Ribera worked under the Spanish rulers of Naples, granting him a broader creative range. His subjects extended far beyond tortured saints to include some of the most intriguing and unconventional themes, often rooted in gripping stories from Spanish history.

Franciscan Convent of Benissa is a Cherished Renaissance Landmark

Thank Goodness the Franciscan Convent of Benissa Was Not Turned Into a Hotel

Preserving the historical and architectural heritage of the Franciscan Convent in Benissa was a relief to many locals and history enthusiasts alike. Plans announced in 1917 to transform this storied convent into a hotel were met with mixed emotions, as the proposal risked altering the character of one of Benissa's most iconic landmarks. Instead, the convent remains a treasure of cultural and spiritual significance, even as its use evolves to accommodate modern realities.


Architectural Features of the Convent

Felipe II (1527–1598) The Renaissance King with a Big Ego & Painful Death


Imagine a man so convinced of his divine right to rule that he believed his kingdom wasn’t just vast—it was illuminated 24/7 by the sun itself. Enter Felipe II of Spain, the ultimate monarch with a cosmic-sized ego to match his colossal empire. Born in 1527, Felipe wasn’t just any king; he was the king—God’s personal pick to manage the affairs of the mortal world. And he had every reason to think so, with a résumé so glittering it could outshine the treasures of the Americas (which he also happened to own).

Spain's Golden Age of Architecture


Discover the Splendor of Spanish Renaissance Architecture: The Golden Age

Step back in time to the opulent world of 16th-century Spain, a period celebrated as the "Golden Age" of art, culture, and architecture. Book NOW for this engaging talk with slides where we will explore the iconic architectural styles, masterful architects, and royal patrons that defined an era of unparalleled wealth.



Who is commemorated by the bust in Benissa?


DID YOU KNOW

The bust in Benissa commemorates Jaume el Conqueridor (James the Conqueror) King James I of Aragon, who reigned from 1213 to 1276. He is renowned for his military campaigns that expanded the Crown of Aragon's territories, including the conquest of Valencia in 1238. This expansion played a significant role in shaping the cultural and historical landscape of the region.

What defines the Monastery of San Jerónimo's church portal?


The door and portal of the Iglesia del Monasterio Jerónimo de la Concepción (Monasterio de San Jerónimo) in Granada, Andalucía, are remarkable examples of Renaissance architecture, crafted by Martín Díaz Navarrete around 1593. 

What secrets lie within the portal of Carlos V at the Alcázar of Toledo?


The main portal of Carlos V at the Alcázar of Toledo is a stunning example of Spanish Renaissance architecture, reflecting the grandeur and ambition of Carlos I of Spain during his reign. Designed in the Plateresque style, the portal combines Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish influences, showcasing the highly decorative and intricate craftsmanship of the era.