Luthier 2013

Timur Akhriev made this painting called Luthier, in what looks like an intimate studio space, through a process of layering and a warm palette. I love the way the paint is applied, thick and juicy, especially in the foreground. You can almost feel the texture of the floorboards under your feet. The colors are rich, earthy tones, but there's also a vibrancy, like the whole scene is humming with creative energy. Look at the way Akhriev captures the light, especially on the figure. There is a glow on the side of the face that makes it look as though the figure is radiating light. I think this conveys the quiet concentration required to make music. It reminds me a bit of Fairfield Porter, in the way it captures a sense of everyday life with a painterly touch. But Akhriev has his own unique voice. He’s really interested in the exchange of ideas across time, with all these instruments on the wall, a conversation between the luthier and all the musicians who will play them.