The Birth and Evolution of Photorealism: A Revolutionary Art Movement

The art movement Photorealism, also known as 'Super-realism', 'Sharp Focus Realism', and 'Hyperrealism', began in the United States during the late 1960s. It emerged as a counter-culture movement, challenging traditional artistic conventions and pushing the boundaries of what constitutes a worthy subject for visual art.

Founders and Early Classics

Artists such as Richard Estes, Chuck Close, and Ralph Goings are recognized as the pioneers of Photorealism. They were among the first to attempt precise reproduction of photographic imagery in their paintings. In parallel, sculptors like and created highly realistic sculptures using live models as inspiration, achieving a similar sense of replicated reality through their work.

Challenging Conventions

Photorealism was a significant shift from traditional art forms. It challenged previous hierarchies in art, deeming what should or should not be considered a worthy subject to depict. The integration of commercial content and simple scenes of everyday life into their work marked a departure from the more intellectual or grand themes of the past. Photorealists embraced and incorporated mechanical and industrial techniques, creating works that were impersonal yet visually stunning.

Techniques and Methods

Photorealists often used innovative techniques to achieve their goals. Richard Estes frequently projected images directly onto the canvas rather than drawing them by hand, and employed airbrush techniques to mimic the glossy look of photographs. This approach allowed for highly detailed and realistic finished products.

Art Historical Context

Photorealism emerged as a reaction to the ever-growing production of photographic media. While Pop artists shared similar goals of blurring the lines between high and low art, the Photorealists sought to reclaim the value of the image itself, not just replicate it. The term 'Photorealism' was coined in 1969 by Louis K. Meisel and appeared in print in 1970, as part of the Whitney Museum Catalogue. Meisel further defined the term in 1973 for Stuart M. Speiser, who was interested in commissioning a large collection of Photorealist art. This collection was later donated to the Smithsonian Museum and exhibited under the title 'Photo-Realism 1973'.

Themes and Influences

Photorealist art often centers around themes such as architecture, reflections, and illusions. Artists like Estes frequently depicted New York City in his photorealism style, believing that this method best captured the essence and atmosphere of Manhattan streets. These works often projected a sense of realism that was astonishingly precise, capturing every detail of the depicted scenes.

Conclusion

The emergence of Photorealism marked a significant milestone in the history of visual art. It challenged traditional conceptions of art and provided a new way of looking at the world through the lens of precision and realism. As a movement, Photorealism continues to inspire and influence contemporary artists and art enthusiasts alike, offering a unique perspective on the integration of technology and art.