Analyzing realism through a contemporary lens presents inherent complexities. Simply put, are we focusing on static museum artifacts or contemporary artistic trends? Furthermore, are we engaging in an exploration of tradition or probing the dynamics of creative expression in its current manifestation?

​

The absolute control that contemporary art institutions hold over the concept of what is relevant, exclusively advocating for trends and practices validated by the global art community, poses a question: is there not merit in exploring alternative perspectives outside of the conventional discourse. ​

​

​​There is a tendency to evaluate realism primarily as a method and subject of art history as opposed to contemplating the broader ontological principles governing how artists interface with reality.

​​​

Are we projecting our contemporary experiences onto the great works of the old masters, or are figurative painters finding novel approaches to depicting the modern world independent of historical themes popularized by the great artists of the past? ​​In broad conceptual terms, artists' utilization of realistic language gives rise to two reoccurring tendencies.

​

The first entails an audience's preference for traditional stylistic renditions epitomized by the works of Rembrandt, Sargent, or Caravaggio, prompting contemporary practitioners to meet predefined expectations for realism. However, this request could be interpreted as a deeper aspiration for art that harks back to the perfected idealizations of the past embedded within the collective consciousness, rather than for a contemporaneously resonant artistic portrayal.

​

The latter proposes that an alternative avenue exists wherein artists seek innovative expressive approaches, thereby articulating authentic, contemporaneously relevant responses to the context of our time. This endeavour requires the development of an original visual vocabulary instrumental to the embodiment of cognitive creativity and the realization of realism's inherent potential today.

​​​

At its core, artistic realism embodies a dynamic, evolutionary phenomenon. Yet, the attainment of such realism necessitates a profound grasp of painting techniques, fundamental artistic education, and an immersive engagement with the artistic legacies of bygone epochs.

​​​

Inquiring into the contemporary viability of realism leads us to consider whether art, as a conduit for truth and meaning, continues to fulfill a salient spiritual imperative within our current era. Access to such pursuits requires a comprehensive immersion in the study of artistic realism, facilitated by the diverse array of methodologies and approaches that have proliferated in the 21st century, all aimed at defining the foundational principles of realistic language within the context of an artistic education.