From the Stove 2019

Andrey Remnev painted "From the Stove" using oil on canvas. The illusionistic depth is remarkable, but I'm drawn to the surface quality of the paint itself. It has an almost porcelain finish, like a glazed ceramic. This effect chimes with the imagery: notice the tiled wall behind the figure, each square depicting a different scene in blue and white. The artist has meticulously rendered the woman's blouse, its fabric gathered and embroidered with blue flowers, echoing the wall behind. There is a sense of skilled craftsmanship, with close attention to detail. The painting engages with traditions of decorative arts and artisanal crafts. It prompts us to reflect on labor, and the artistic effort required in the production process. Remnev blurs boundaries, challenging any hierarchy between craft and fine art.