Not simply a matter of technique, Realism as an art and historical movement is also a rejection of classical and romantic ideals towards a contemplation of social and political mores. In our current climate of fast-paced living and instant gratification, the tradition of using paint and what the eye can see in real time and space, is more relevant than ever.
These prolific artists in ‘Keeping it Real’ have depicted their surroundings with masterly draughtsmanship and a dedication to detail that is uncommon in our contemporary lives. William Breen captures suspended moments in time allowing a heightened sense of awareness, Kathrin Longhurst challenges the image as propaganda, Rebecca Hastings uses classical painting techniques to paint highly-realised glimpses into an unsettling and perhaps not-so make-believe world, Chelsea Gustafsson by juxtaposing highly realistic random and sometimes obscure objects tells viewer-specific narratives, Ken Smith’s pursuit of the capture of shifting light upon the landscape requires painstaking observation and rendition, Michelle Molinari working within the European still life tradition lovingly memorialises death, and Amber Rose Hulme’s evocative, photo-realistic urban and industrial scenes speak to ideas of identity and social conditions.
