Leila Rose Fanner South Africa, b. 1970

In the Evening at the Palazzo series of two, Leila Rose Fanner utilizes oil and oil pastel on raw linen to evoke the distinctive ambiance of Venice's summer evenings. This pair of paintings reflects the warm, golden light that bathes the canals and the bordering buildings during the sweltering, humid nights characteristic of Venetian summers.

Fanner’s creative process was deeply influenced by the city’s unique features, particularly the iconic ‘briccole’ - the wooden poles marking the canal pathways - and the elegant ‘gondolas’ that glide through the waterways. These elements are intricately portrayed in the paintings, capturing both their physical presence and their reflective qualities on the water's surface. The artist’s depiction of the canals includes the interplay of light and shadow on the water, emphasizing how the evening light dances across the rippling surface, creating a shimmering effect that enhances the paintings’ sense of warmth and depth.

The inspiration for this series was drawn once again from Venice’s ‘palazzi’. The buildings lining the canals, many of which were once owned by wealthy families, captivated her with their historical and architectural splendor. The reflections in the water, the intricate play of light on the canal’s surface, and the majestic presence of the palazzi all contributed to the development of the Evening at the Palazzo series. By capturing these elements, Fanner conveys not only the physical beauty of Venice but also the evocative atmosphere that defines the city's summer nights.

The paintings in this series are a testament to how Venice’s distinctive features have deeply impacted Fanner's work. They illustrate her ability to translate the city’s enchanting ambiance into visual art, blending the historical grandeur with the ephemeral beauty of the evening light and its reflections on the canals.