Metamorphosis 2012

Andrey Remnev, born in 1962, painted "Metamorphosis," with oils, in a style that evokes both Russian Symbolism and the Renaissance. Born in Russia, Remnev’s artistic expression is steeped in the traditions of Russian art. The two women depicted seem to occupy an ethereal space, their androgynous beauty referencing both classical ideals and the pre-Raphaelite brotherhood’s exploration of romantic themes. Framed by the vivid red backdrop and the delicate flora, the figures convey a sense of serenity, but also detachment. We might think about the artist's intentions and the cultural context in which he was working. What does it mean to represent femininity in this way? Are we looking at an idealized image, or a more complex commentary on gender and identity? These are the questions that stay with me when viewing Remnev's "Metamorphosis."