Leonid Afremov 16 Leonid Afremov (1955-)

The canvas presents a nocturnal urban scene dominated by vibrant color and energetic brushwork. Here we observe a row of buildings situated alongside what appears to be a body of water, likely a canal or river. The architecture suggests a Mediterranean locale, characterized by multi-story structures with balconies and terracotta roofs. Several palm trees punctuate the skyline, reinforcing this impression of a warm, southern climate.
The artist’s primary focus seems to lie in capturing the effect of artificial light on the environment. Buildings are bathed in an intense, almost theatrical glow emanating from unseen sources within. This illumination is reflected with considerable intensity upon the waters surface, creating a shimmering, distorted mirror image of the scene above. The sky itself is rendered as a swirling vortex of blues and purples, punctuated by streaks of yellow and orange that echo the light below.
The application of paint is thick and impastoed, contributing to a sense of dynamism and movement. Brushstrokes are visible and assertive, creating texture and adding visual interest. This technique lends an almost tactile quality to the scene, as if one could feel the heat radiating from the lights and the humidity in the air.
Beyond the immediate depiction of place, the painting evokes feelings of warmth, vibrancy, and perhaps a touch of melancholy. The intense light suggests a sense of artificiality or constructed beauty, while the darkness surrounding the illuminated area hints at an underlying solitude. The repetition of architectural forms and the mirroring effect on the water create a feeling of cyclical time and enduring presence. It is possible to interpret this as a romanticized view of urban life, emphasizing its aesthetic appeal over any potential social complexities.

The signature in the lower right corner suggests a personal touch, anchoring the work within an individual artistic vision.