Can Realism Art Be Creative?
My Art Background
Over the years I have learned a lot about different art styles. But this year I have been diving into this subject even more. I am interested in putting a name to what I am doing and trying to dive deeper into the art community. I never got the opportunity to go to University for an art education. So all this curiosity and research has been my way of learning. It's a privilege to be able to afford to study something like art and one day I would love to take more courses.
I'm fascinated with art history and colour theory. There's not a day that I don't consume an art podcast or flip through books about art theory. These days I find my style gravitating towards realism with a touch of impressionism. I love to create life like pictures. Sprinkling in some loose brush strokes, changing light and saturated colours.
Realism Helps You Connect With More People
I find myself drifting between these two art styles but realism is a big love of mine. The tiny details in every day life makes me light up. I've always been very creative too. Coming up with stories and ideas for new pieces is my favourite part. I get to bring someone else into my brain and show them what I'm feeling. I used to draw and paint more abstract ideas. But I found realism the easiest way to connect with the general population. Realism to many is a talented and skillful style. It's one of the first reasons people called me an artist at a young age. I was able to render things "life like".
But without creativity and stories behind the work they are simply a recreation of life. This is why I write stories and focus on the creativity aspect of art. Creating pieces that spark deep emotion like sadness, grief, excitement, joy and love. Being able to use my art in a way to connect on a deeper level is so satisfying. I'm able to evoke certain emotions in others and get to connect with their personal stories.
Can realistic art be creative?
The question still stands. Can you be a realistic artist and add creativity and emotion into your art? To me the answer is yes. While some will only ever see realistic art as a skill that you can learn and executed. I see it as a creative force inside me trying to get out and tell a story. My desire to create realistic paintings and tell these stories is my passion. Art exists in my life to process my deep emotions but also help others process theirs. Realism is such a great way to connect to others.
Here are a few reasons I think people connect so deeply with realism art:
- Familiarity: Realism art often depicts everyday objects, scenes, and people that are familiar. This can evoke a sense of comfort and recognition, and make us feel connected to the art on a personal level.
- Emotional resonance: Realism art can also evoke strong emotions, as it often depicts real-life situations and experiences that we can relate to.
- Technical skill: Realism art often requires a high level of technical skill, which can be appreciated by viewers. The level of detail and accuracy in realism art can be impressive, and people may admire the artist's ability to capture reality in such a precise manner.
- Timelessness: Realism art can have a timeless quality, as it captures a split moment in time. This can create a sense of nostalgia, as viewers reflect on the past and contemplate the future.
Telling My Stories To Add Depth To My Art
Starting this blog has been a way to tell these stories. It gives the realistic pieces more depth. It's way for me to go crazy writing about everything I'm processing in that moment. It gives me a voice to explain why I actually painted a piece.
I am so grateful to have this website to expand my creative practice. I hope it gives you all a deeper look into my creative process and why I paint what I do.
**Shootout to my husband Arvin for setting up this website. He believed in the value of telling my stories and has always supported my creative practice. <3
Read about how ADHD changed my art style here.
Megan Josol
"Realism is not about capturing reality, but about capturing the truth of a moment." - Berenice Abbott
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