Leonid Afremov 24 Leonid Afremov (1955-)

The canvas presents a nocturnal urban scene, dominated by a vibrant and expressive application of color. Here we observe a street illuminated by artificial light, reflecting intensely in the wet pavement. The perspective is slightly elevated, allowing for a broad view of the buildings lining the thoroughfare.
Buildings are rendered with a simplified architectural vocabulary; their forms are suggested rather than meticulously detailed. They appear to be multi-storied structures with balconies and windows that glow with internal illumination – a key element contributing to the overall atmosphere. The artist employed thick impasto, particularly noticeable in the depiction of the sky and foliage, creating a tactile surface and emphasizing the dynamism of light.
Two figures are present, both sheltered by umbrellas, positioned at different points along the street. Their presence introduces a human scale to the composition and hints at an intimate narrative – perhaps a couple strolling through the rain-soaked city. The lampposts, also rendered with thick brushstrokes, cast pools of warm light onto the wet ground, further enhancing the sense of depth and atmosphere.
The color palette is rich and saturated, leaning heavily on blues, yellows, oranges, and reds. This choice contributes to a feeling of warmth amidst the cool tones associated with night and rain. The sky itself is not depicted as dark or ominous but rather as a swirling vortex of color, suggesting an emotional intensity that transcends literal representation.
The vegetation climbing the building on the right introduces a natural element into this urban setting. Its vibrant green contrasts sharply with the artificial light and man-made structures, perhaps symbolizing resilience or the persistence of nature within a built environment. The overall effect is one of romanticized urbanism – a city rendered not as a place of cold functionality but as a source of beauty, emotion, and quiet intimacy. Theres an underlying sense of melancholy conveyed through the rain and subdued figures, yet this is tempered by the vibrant colors and energetic brushwork, suggesting a hopeful or nostalgic perspective on modern life.