BORIS SAVELEV: Michael Hoppen Gallery

Savelev, Broken Slide. Mutlti-layered pigment print on gesso coated aluminum, ed. of 3

The environment in this photograph is mysterious, as the land seems to be destroyed in the background, it is a sea of dirt and concrete. Two human figures grace the scene and stand in opposition to one another, separated by a black pole. They both appear to be waiting for something, yet not necessarily the bus.

Savelev, Principe Pio Madrid. Multi layered pigment print on gesso layered aluminum, ed. of 3

At first, Boris's images seem to have a meloncholy that can be seen as a reflection ofa specifically Russian sensibility. On deeper reflection it is their humour and playfulness, their delight in moments that occur momentarily that characterize his images; odd details of human life in its urban setting are presented in a highly deliberate but off hand way. His use of color and light is masterful: each photgoraph functions as a powerful abstract statement as well as a fragment of reality.

The area of light highlighted in this photograh is isolated yet intimate as though it is the only thing existing. Everything else looks dead, including the firgure walking through the gate/doorway. The mood is somber but peaceful.