Leonid Afremov 13 Leonid Afremov (1955-)

The artwork presents a nocturnal urban scene dominated by architectural forms and vibrant color. A substantial building, characterized by classical detailing and multiple levels, occupies the left portion of the composition. Its facade is rendered in warm tones – ochre, amber, and burnt sienna – that suggest illumination from within, creating an impression of stately grandeur. To its right, a strikingly modern structure with a geometric, pyramidal form rises diagonally, contrasting sharply with the traditional architecture. This contemporary element appears almost crystalline, reflecting light and color in a fragmented manner.
The scene is set on what seems to be a body of water, which acts as a mirror, doubling the architectural elements and contributing to a sense of depth and visual complexity. The reflections are not precise duplicates but rather distorted by the movement of the water, adding an element of dynamism to the otherwise static arrangement of buildings. A small group of figures can be discerned near the modern structure, their presence suggesting human scale within this monumental setting.
The artist employs a thick impasto technique, applying paint in bold, expressive strokes that create texture and visual energy. The color palette is intensely saturated, with blues, purples, yellows, and reds intermingling to produce a dramatic effect. This use of color isnt representational; instead, it conveys mood and atmosphere – a sense of excitement, perhaps even a touch of melancholy.
The juxtaposition of the classical and modern architectural styles suggests a dialogue between tradition and innovation, permanence and transience. The vibrant colors and energetic brushwork might be interpreted as an attempt to capture not just the visual appearance of the scene but also its emotional resonance – the feeling of being present in a bustling urban environment at night. Theres a sense of spectacle here, of witnessing something both familiar and extraordinary. The overall impression is one of controlled chaos, where architectural solidity meets expressive color and dynamic movement.