Leonid Afremov 98 Leonid Afremov (1955-)

The canvas presents a dynamic scene of a horse race, rendered in a vibrant and expressive style. Two jockeys, clad in contrasting red and blue attire, are positioned atop powerful horses that surge forward with evident energy. The composition is dominated by the diagonal thrust of the steeds, creating an immediate sense of movement and urgency.
The artist employs thick impasto strokes throughout, particularly noticeable in the depiction of the horses’ musculature and the swirling background. This technique lends a tactile quality to the work, emphasizing the physicality of the event. The color palette is warm and saturated; hues of orange, red, and brown dominate, contributing to an atmosphere of excitement and intensity. Light appears to emanate from within the scene itself, highlighting the horses’ forms and creating dramatic contrasts between light and shadow.
Beyond the literal depiction of a race, the painting seems to explore themes of competition and striving. The close proximity of the two horses suggests a fierce rivalry, while their forward momentum symbolizes ambition and relentless pursuit. The blurred background figures hint at an audience, emphasizing the spectacle and public nature of the event. Theres a sense of fleeting time captured within the brushstrokes; the moment is ephemeral, charged with anticipation and potential outcome.
The artist’s choice to focus on the horses and jockeys, minimizing detail in the surrounding environment, directs the viewer’s attention towards the core drama of the race. The overall effect is one of energetic dynamism and a celebration of human skill intertwined with animal power.