The artwork titled “I Dreamed I Could Fly,” created by Carlos Almaraz in 1986, is a prominent example of the Neo-Expressionism art movement and falls within the figurative genre. This piece embodies a vibrant and dynamic depiction, showcasing the artist’s distinctive style and thematic focus.
The artwork portrays a dreamlike scene filled with a plethora of vivid colors and abstract forms. The upper part of the composition appears to be a tumultuous sky filled with ethereal figures, celestial bodies, and abstract shapes, giving a sense of movement and fantasy. Various human figures are depicted soaring or floating, symbolizing the act of flying in a dream. The celestial elements, such as the moon and scattered clouds, enhance the surreal ambiance. Below this chaotic sky, the lower part features a row of houses with luminous windows, grounding the scene in a more familiar, urban landscape. The juxtaposition of the whimsical, imaginary sky with the grounded, everyday structures creates a compelling contrast, highlighting the theme of dreams versus reality.
The bold use of color, expressive brushstrokes, and the integration of fantastical elements into a semi-realistic setting are characteristic features of Neo-Expressionism, and they are vividly exemplified in this captivating artwork by Almaraz.
