Artwork

Modo de volar (A Way of Flying)

Modo de volar (A Way of Flying), by Francisco de Goya, ink
Modo de volar (A Way of Flying), by Francisco de Goya, ink

Modo de volar (A Way of Flying) is an ink print by the Impressionist artist Francisco de Goya. It is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Modo de volar (A Way of Flying) is a print created by Francisco de Goya using etching, aquatint, and drypoint techniques. It is a representative work of the artist's later graphic output, characterized by dark humor and unsettling imagery.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts a chaotic scene of bat-like creatures flying in a dark sky. One figure clings to a larger beast, conveying a sense of struggle and unease. The imagery is dreamlike and open to interpretation, reflecting Goya's engagement with imaginative and satirical themes.

Technique & Style

Goya employed a combination of techniques to achieve the print's eerie effect. Drypoint, in particular, allowed him to create sharp lines and shadowy tones by scratching directly into the printing plate, adding to the overall sense of unease and tension in the image.

Modo de volar (A Way of Flying)
Modo de volar (A Way of Flying), Francisco de Goya

Artist & collection

Portrait of Francisco de Goya

Artist

Francisco de Goya

Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes was a Spanish romantic painter and printmaker.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Modo de volar (A Way of Flying)?

Modo de volar (A Way of Flying) was painted by Francisco de Goya.

Where can I see Modo de volar (A Way of Flying)?

Modo de volar (A Way of Flying) is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Modo de volar (A Way of Flying)?

Modo de volar (A Way of Flying) is associated with Impressionism.

Can I buy a print of Modo de volar (A Way of Flying)?

Museum-quality prints of Modo de volar (A Way of Flying) are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.