Hyperrealistic Art

A LOOK AT

Hyperrealism is rooted in Photorealism, which came about in the late 1960s, being the first modern movement to acknowledge dependence on photography as part of the artistic process.  Although the original makers of Hyperrealistic art were criticized at first for using photography, their work eventually gained recognition.

EXPLAINING THE HYPE

Hyperrealism is a movement in art based on using the camera and photographic material to make drawings, paintings, or sculptures that resemble high-resolution photographs.

WHAT IS HYPERREALISM?

Photography became a recognized art form in its own right, but ever since its arrival artists began using it in their practice, putting it in constant conversation with other media.

HISTORY

Realism emerged in the mid-19th century in Western Europe around the time photography had been invented. As a result, photography influenced many aspects of human existence, including art.

REALISM

A group of artists working mainly in New York and California started using photographs as the primary material and foundation for producing realistic and detailed paintings.

PHOTOREALISM

While there is certainly no shortage of hyperrealist portraiture today, the first generation of hyperrealist painters tended to prefer objects, particularly those with reflective surfaces.

HYPERREALISTIC PAINTERS

FAMOUS PAINTERS

Ralph Goings (1928 – 2016)

#1

Audrey Flack (1931 – Present)

#2

FAMOUS SCULPTORS

Duane Hanson (1925 – 1996)

#1

Ron Mueck (1958 – Present)

#2

While the appeal of Hyperrealism is obvious and warranted, its precision may limit artistic expression and blur the line between skill and gimmick.

LIMITS AND GIMMICKS

Despite its criticism, Hyperrealism has endured and been adopted by subsequent generations of artists. Because it is impressive in its technical quality, realism continues to gain popularity.

BELIEVE THE HYPE