Leonid Afremov: Collected Works

"True art is alive and inspired by humanity. I believe that art helps us to be free from aggression and depression." -Leonid Afremov

Born in Viebsk, Belarus in 1955 Leonid Afremov did not discover his true passion until the age of seven. Throughout his early years and onward, he spent much time performing menial labor and further developing his talent of beautiful and articulate paintings. He graduated from college with a degree in art education and had been directed to focus more on teaching rather than free lancing and leisure painting. During his early twenties he began to design theatrical sets and propaganda posters. By 1990 the artist left Belarus and moved to Israel where his talent would reach his peak. In 1995 Afremov asserts that he finally mastered his craft and credits the sweltering sun as the source of inspiration for much of his work. In essence, if one were to gaze at Afremov's work the hot weather can be translated in the warm ,vibrant hues while also evoking emotions of joy and exuberance. 

As a self-described optimist, Afremov firmly believes his work allows viewers to experience emotions of intense positivity, immediate relaxation, and utter awe. "In my art, I am looking to express my inner self and create a moving illusion in a painting. I like making my art so that [one] can feel and see the action in the painting in motion." Looking at Afremov's paintings it is evident that he achieves just that and much more. The artist is known for delving beyond conventional means of painting by using oil and a palette knife to carve each stroke. Although traditionally used for cleaning old paint from canvas, artists seldom use the technique to create their work. However, with time Afremov has done the impossible and produced over 4,000 paintings since 1995. Furthermore, his style is virtually unique and beyond difficult to imitate. 


Each color is carefully chosen with meticulous brush strokes that form blurred lines, yet defined shapes as well. One of the outstanding themes present in his work are the obvious color juxtapositions between warm and cool shades. With such an emphasis on warm hues, Afremov frequently includes light sources that serve as the focal point and sense of direction in each painting. Also present throughput are exaggerated highlights and combinations of harsh to soft strokes. The artist's paintings are without a doubt mesmerizing to look at, especially when one considers the tools used to create such a marvel.The cityscapes, jazz musician portraits, flowers, landmarks, and seashores he paints all provide new perspectives into view from their usual everyday color. Moreover, the beautiful transitions and subtle inclusion of the color spectrum provide an infinite amount of color intensities and sense of contentment.