The famous painter known for his surreal works, including "The Persistence of Memory," is Salvador Dalí. This painting, created in 1931, is renowned for its dreamlike quality and melting clocks, symbolizing the fluidity of time. Dalí's unique style combines realistic detail with bizarre imagery, captivating audiences and challenging their perceptions. He was a prominent figure in the Surrealist movement and produced numerous works that explored themes of desire, dreams, and the subconscious. His flamboyant personality and eccentric behavior also contributed to his enduring legacy as an influential artist.