The artwork titled “Walking on Water” was created by Abdul Mati Klarwein in 1961. It is associated with the Fantastic Realism movement and is categorized within the symbolic painting genre. This piece is part of the “Visionary Psychedelia” series, emphasizing the mystical and surreal nature of the work.
The composition of the artwork “Walking on Water” presents a vibrant and dynamic interplay of colors and patterns, portraying a mesmerizing interpretation of reality. At the forefront of the scene is a lush and vivid bouquet of various flowers in full bloom, exhibiting a rich palette of colors and intricate details that suggest a deep fascination with the natural world. Above this botanical array appears a patch of water, within which the visage of a woman is depicted as emerging from the surface. Her expression is one of elation or perhaps awe, and the water around her swirls in a kaleidoscope of colors, echoing the tumultuous texture of the sky above. Arabic script adorns the top corners of the artwork, enhancing the sense of enigma and cultural synthesis.
The artwork as a whole seems to invite interpretation, blending elements of the earthly with the surreal, possibly reflecting themes of transcendence, beauty, and the blending of different realms. The style, emblematic of Klarwein’s work, merges realism with fantasy, crafting a scene that both captivates and puzzles the viewer, encouraging a deeper consideration of the symbolic elements presented within this complex piece.
