Redefining the American Dream – The Art of Carlos Beltran Arechiga

An exploration of aspiration and exclusion through evocative visuals that challenge traditional narratives of success and belonging

Carlos Beltran Arechiga discusses the themes of existential ambiguity, identity, and social structures in his art, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences.

Carlos Beltran Arechiga, a visionary artist deeply attuned to themes of identity, cultural nuance, and environmental interconnectedness, stands at the forefront of contemporary art with a style that blends figuration and abstraction in a dynamic, thought-provoking manner. His work delves into the spaces “in-between,” inviting viewers to consider the complex layers of existence, belonging, and the structures that shape human experience. As both a painter and an immigrant, Arechiga’s compositions resonate with the richness of his personal journey, bridging the diverse worlds he inhabits through vibrant, intricate visual narratives. His canvases serve as both personal explorations and universal reflections, often incorporating textures and materials—like worn construction tarps—imbued with history and memory. By weaving together organic and geometric forms, Arechiga constructs layered commentaries on balance, conflict, and harmony within a world defined by both its aspirations and its exclusions.

Arechiga offers insights into the core elements that drive his artistic vision: existential ambiguity, the interplay between abstract and representational elements, and the evocative tension that defines his signature style. His exploration of social structures, environmental justice, and cultural dissonance comes to life in his responses, unveiling an artistic process grounded in empathy, resilience, and a relentless quest for understanding. Readers are invited into a rare and intimate conversation that reveals not only the depth of Arechiga’s artistry but also his unwavering commitment to crafting spaces for introspection and collective dialogue.

Carlos Beltran Arechiga brilliantly balances abstraction and figuration, resulting in meaningful visual storytelling that address the challenges of identity and belonging.

How do you define existential ambiguity in your work, and how does it influence your artistic process?

Existential ambiguity is a central theme in my paintings, expressed through a deliberate formal and aesthetic in-betweenness. I create the background using representational structures that establish the context and mood of each piece. This approach encourages viewers to bypass the need for literal interpretation or understanding, inviting them instead to engage with the work on a deeper, more visceral level—similar to the way one might connect with the beauty and complexity of nature.

My exploration of subjects that strive for balance, without adhering to any single extreme, is deeply rooted in my personal experiences as an immigrant living in Los Angeles. This unique position has shaped my navigation through a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and identities. In my work, I reflect the complexities of existing between these various influences, highlighting the nuances of representation and the quest for a harmonious sense of self amidst the contradictions. Through this lens, my paintings become a space for contemplation and emotional resonance, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences of ambiguity and balance in a multifaceted world

Can you explain the significance of the tension between figuration and abstraction in your art? How do you balance these elements in your creations?

Tension plays a crucial role in my work, as I aim for the paintings to create a dynamic push and pull that challenges the viewer’s comfort level in their interpretation. The structures within my pieces are intentionally designed from multiple perspectives, allowing them to accommodate a variety of organic, anthropomorphic forms that resonate with natural structures. This interplay suggests a sense of fluid freedom, yet it exists within the confines of sleek, hard-edged elements that may either complement or contradict these organic shapes.

This tension is not only thematic but also formal, reflected in my compositional choices. I often incorporate marks and textures left on the fabric from its previous uses, particularly with construction tarps that have served in projects involving the undocumented immigrant community. These remnants add layers of meaning and history to the work, creating a dialogue between the past and present. By blending these elements, I invite viewers to confront their own perceptions of comfort and discomfort, challenging them to engage with the complexities of identity, labor, and existence in a world that is often at odds with itself.

What specific resources and opportunities do you seek to address through your exploration of tangible and intangible structures in your work?

I delve into the concept of structures to emphasize the significance of observation and thoughtful consideration. This exploration encompasses both societal frameworks—such as the policies and infrastructures that dictate access, representation, education, and investment—and the natural structures that face degradation, particularly in the context of environmental justice.

For instance, when examining societal structures, I reflect on how policies can create barriers or gateways for marginalized communities. Consider the impact of educational institutions: they can either empower individuals or reinforce existing inequities, depending on their resources and accessibility. Similarly, infrastructure projects can determine the flow of investment into specific neighbourhoods, shaping economic opportunities and community development.

On the other hand, I also focus on the decline of natural structures, such as ecosystems under threat from pollution and climate change. This decline often disproportionately affects certain sectors of the community, raising urgent questions about environmental justice. For example, low-income neighbourhoods may bear the brunt of industrial waste or lack access to clean green spaces, revealing the intersection of social and environmental issues.

By examining these structures, I aim to foster a deeper awareness of how they influence our lives and the world around us. This dual perspective encourages viewers to engage critically with both the systems that govern us and the natural environments we inhabit, ultimately prompting a more nuanced understanding of their interconnectedness.

How do the recurring edifices in your paintings represent the traditional “American Dream,” and what message are you trying to convey by disrupting this imagery with abstract markings?

The visual language I employ in designing the structures of my paintings draws inspiration from sleek mid-century modern archetypes, which were integral to the mass deployment of advertising campaigns that promised a better life. However, it’s important to recognize that this promise often served only a select segment of society, typically defined by ethnicity and socioeconomic status.

By echoing these aesthetic forms, I aim to critique the underlying narratives that have historically marginalized certain groups while privileging others. This juxtaposition invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of aspiration and exclusion embedded within these structures.

Disrupting the status quo has always been a catalyst for change throughout human history. It is through challenging established norms and conventions that societies can evolve and progress. In my work, I seek to engage with this idea, encouraging viewers to question not only the visual elements before them but also the broader societal frameworks they represent. By doing so, I hope to inspire a dialogue about the possibilities for a more inclusive future—one where the promises of better living conditions and opportunities are accessible to all, regardless of their background.

In what ways do you believe your art challenges preconceived notions of a “Promised Land”? Can you provide examples from your work?

In my work, I challenge the concept of the “promised land” through subtle and often understated means, which may not be immediately apparent to the viewer. As previously mentioned, many of my paintings are created on fabrics that carry the memory of the construction trade. This choice is significant because it highlights the often-overlooked contributions of workers who inhabit the shadows—those who are invisible and underrepresented despite their critical role in building the cities we inhabit.

These workers, often immigrants, face systemic barriers that deny them access to representation and recognition. By using materials that reflect their labour, I aim to bring their experiences and struggles into the foreground, prompting viewers to confront the disparity between the promise of prosperity and the reality faced by many.

This approach serves as a reminder of the complex layers of societal narratives surrounding labour and belonging. It invites viewers to engage with the notion of the Promised Land not just as an idealized vision but as a nuanced reality that includes both aspiration and exclusion. In doing so, I hope to foster a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of our lives and the importance of acknowledging all contributors to our society.

How do you hope viewers will respond to the dynamic visual experience you create through the interplay of gestural markings and structures in your art?

When it comes to my audience’s response, my goal is to establish formal and conceptual frameworks that provide just enough context to create a space for reflection and interpretation, regardless of the viewer’s background. I aspire for my paintings to act as mirrors, inviting viewers to engage personally with the work and to contribute to its meaning through their own experiences and perspectives.

I believe that the true success of a painting lies in its ability to evoke a change in the viewer, even if only momentarily, in their mind or heart. These fleeting moments of connection can serve as powerful catalysts for change, igniting thoughts and emotions that linger long after the initial viewing. I see these small triggers as significant, as they can influence one’s daily life and perceptions, ultimately fostering a broader awareness and deeper understanding of our shared human experiences. By encouraging this introspection, I hope to inspire a dialogue that extends beyond the artwork itself, prompting ongoing reflection and engagement with the world.

EDITOR’S HIGHLIGHTS