The Dreamer

At the East end of Pettygrove Park in downtown Portland is a bronze sculpture named “The Dreamer” by Manuel Izquierdo. Three massive irregular bronze shapes rest upon the top of a two-tiered rectangular stone that resides in the middle of a drained fountain. The lack of water disrupts the composition making the sculptor appear very heavy, losing the feeling of elegance and weightlessness that the surrounding pool of water provides. The bronze pieces are asymmetrically balanced and could be interpreted as a possible human figure, or maybe Piglet from Winnie-the-Pooh. The rectangular stone is bland in color and adds an unnecessary pedestal to an unfamiliar idol. The only enjoyment I found from looking at this artwork was the warm yellow glow that emulates from the curvy metal shapes. I suppose the sound of a ringing splat caused by the connection of flying pigeon poop and bronze would spark an ounce of enjoyment, however even this effect would be lost because the artist filled the interior with foam to lessen the impact of falling rain.

- Halrey