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In the Realism art period, which emerged in the mid-19th century, artists sought to depict the ordinary and everyday aspects of life with a heightened level of detail and accuracy.
Realist artists often portrayed ordinary people from various social classes engaged in everyday activities, such as working, socializing, or simply going about their daily routines. These subjects were often depicted in a straightforward and unidealized manner, showing the realities of their lives.
Realist artists paid close attention to detail, striving to accurately represent the physical appearance of people, objects, and environments. This attention to detail helped to convey the authenticity and realism of their depictions.
Realism encompassed both urban and rural settings, capturing scenes from bustling city streets as well as quiet countryside landscapes. Artists depicted the unique characteristics and challenges of both environments, offering insights into the diverse experiences of everyday life.
Realism often served as a means of social commentary, highlighting the disparities and injustices present in society. Artists depicted issues such as poverty, labor conditions, and class divisions, aiming to raise awareness and provoke thought about pressing social issues.
Realism emerged in part as a reaction against the idealized and fantastical imagery of the preceding Romantic movement. Instead of portraying grandiose scenes or mythological subjects, realist artists focused on the mundane and everyday aspects of life, grounded in observable reality.
The rise of photography during the 19th century had a significant impact on realism. Some realist artists, such as Gustave Courbet, embraced photography’s ability to capture reality with precision and incorporated photographic techniques into their own work.
Overall, the focus on everyday life in realism art sought to provide a truthful and unembellished representation of the world as it was, reflecting the experiences and struggles of ordinary people in a rapidly changing society.