The dramatic, symbolic compositions of American painter Dmitri Freund are borne of a rich confluence of interests, experiences and traditions. His extensive musical training remains evident in the rhythmic silhouettes and patterns of his skylines and landscapes, with their melodic bursts of light. He cites the influence of Russian icon paintings on his work, though it also often evokes 19th century Symbolism and early-20th century American realism, and his palette tends toward bold Fauvist tones. Yet out of these varied precedents, Freund finds new expression in his allegorical compositions.
His oil paintings alternate between Edenic nature scenes with exquisite patterns layered into their lush vegetation, and dramatic cityscapes where rows of towering buildings conjure a bustling, overwhelming urban experience. Whether these canvases are optimistic or ominous, Freund imbues them with a brightness that remains defiantly hopeful. His sense of composition and way of harnessing vision echoes the images’ brilliance; Freund continually directs our eyes upwards, towards the light, in a kind of devout viewing ritual.