Mermaid 2004

Andrey Remnev created "Mermaid" using oil on canvas. The composition centers on a young man in profile, his gaze directed towards an unseen point, carrying a woven basket overhead. Remnev's technique gives the figure an almost porcelain smoothness, reminiscent of classical portraiture. Notice the crisp lines defining the man’s profile, contrasted with the softer, more diffused treatment of his clothing. This interplay of sharp and soft focuses attention on the figure's face, rendering the subject both present and idealized. The basket introduces a textural element, its woven pattern adding a layer of complexity. The slight tilt of the head and the upward reach of the arm create a subtle tension, engaging with the visual dynamics that subtly destabilize the conventional portrait form. The subdued color palette reinforces a sense of quiet contemplation. The painting invites a sustained look, prompting questions about narrative and representation.