Leonid Afremov 128 Leonid Afremov (1955-)

The artwork presents a monumental structure rising from a body of water, rendered in a vibrant and expressive style. The central focus is on the towering vertical elements of the construction, which are illuminated with a warm, golden light that contrasts sharply against the surrounding darkness. These luminous pillars appear to support a suspended roadway, angled diagonally across the composition.
The artist employed an impasto technique, applying thick layers of paint in short, energetic strokes. This creates a palpable texture and imbues the scene with a sense of dynamism. The color palette is dominated by intense hues – blues, purples, reds, oranges, and yellows – which are juxtaposed to generate visual excitement. The sky, or background, is not depicted as a uniform expanse but rather as an abstract field of swirling colors, suggesting movement and energy.
Below the structure, the water reflects the light and color above, creating a distorted mirror image that further enhances the sense of depth and complexity. The reflections are fragmented and broken up by the choppy surface of the water, contributing to the overall feeling of instability and visual intensity.
The painting conveys an impression of awe and grandeur. The scale of the structure is emphasized through its dominance within the frame, while the vibrant colors evoke a sense of wonder and perhaps even euphoria. Theres a suggestion of nighttime or twilight, adding to the dreamlike quality of the scene. The abstraction inherent in the style moves beyond mere representation; it aims to capture an emotional response to the subject – a feeling of being overwhelmed by its beauty and power.
The work seems to explore themes of human ambition and ingenuity, as evidenced by the monumental construction that dominates the landscape. However, the abstract treatment prevents a straightforward interpretation, allowing for multiple readings and encouraging viewers to engage with the artwork on an emotional level.