"Architectural Fantasies" is an abstract painting of geometric shapes and forms, giving the illusion of a three dimensional, architectural structure. Born in New York City in 1931, Joseph Amarotico painted in oil and acrylic on canvas and board, and gouache on paper, using a surrealistic style to build architectural fantasies and "dream castles" from basic everyday shapes. The overall effect he achieved is similar to the play of light and color found in stained glass windows. His work as a painter was overshadowed by his reputation as a conservator, restoring paintings for the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. Specializing in 19th Century American paintings (a very different style from his own work), he refurbished paintings, found dates and names for paintings of unknown origin, and appraised paintings for their quality.