Classical Realism is a phrase coined by
Minneapolis painter, Richard Lack (1928-) to
distinguish a particular kind of representational
painting from other types of realist art.
“Classical” has had many meanings over the years. It has defined Graeco-Roman subjects, presented the idealized relationship of artistic form and composition, and has been used colloquially to indicate seriousness or traditional excellence.
“Realism”, on the other hand, especially in nineteenth century French art, espoused anti-traditionalist, sometimes radical sensibilities. Invariably, it presented common or unpolished themes, ones that shunned idealization and occasionally, logic.
Joining the two apparently antithetical terms would appear to present an almost contradictory concept. However, the combination of certain aspects of each art form, specifically conceptual idealism with observed naturalism, allowed for a distinct transformation. The resulting symbiosis, rather than displacing either tradition, has given rise to a vibrant contemporary art form, Classical Realism.
Classical Realism, as promoted by Richard Lack, had its immediate roots in what is known as the Boston School of painting. It is one of the longest practicing schools of painting in American Art. According to Lack, the Boston painters became famous as practitioners of a style based on authoritative draftsmanship, richly pigmented surfaces and, above all, a steadfast devotion to truth in nature and the beauty of colour. Members included Edmund Tarbell, D M Bunker, William McGregor Paxton, and most notably, R H Ives Gammell (1893-1981).
Ives Gammell, “a first rate intellectual, and an exceptionally gifted artist”, was singularly important for carrying the tradition forward. He was dedicated to preserving and passing on knowledge of the traditional techniques of picture making. As well, he recognized the necessity of bringing both the Academic and Impressionist traditions together through the Modernist period, when the art world appeared to be indifferent, and at times, almost antagonistic to both.
Classical Realism is the living embodiment of the artistic principles of the European academic, and American Impressionist traditions.
These principles are as follows.
Truth to Nature- Good drawing, plausible colour, truthfulness of light and shadow, and skill in execution, all resulting in a subtle representation of nature.
Thorough Artistic Training- Excellence in representation through the continuing development of proper draftsmanship, visual memory, and subtlety and sensitivity in colour; continuing perfection of hand/eye coordination.
Beauty- Beautiful in line and colour, producing harmonious and agreeable sensations in the viewer. Design and drawing will show concordant patterning of line, colour, and tone.
Skillful Crafstmanship- Technical skill acquired by diligent training and practice; completeness in concept and execution, embodying everything the painter wished to say in an understandable way.
Classical Realism is a living sensibility, an artistic point of view characterized by love and respect for the great traditions of Western art. Classical realist artists understand and interpret the present age, giving meaning to the world that surrounds us, using the timeless qualities inherent in the best art of the past.
“Classical” has had many meanings over the years. It has defined Graeco-Roman subjects, presented the idealized relationship of artistic form and composition, and has been used colloquially to indicate seriousness or traditional excellence.
“Realism”, on the other hand, especially in nineteenth century French art, espoused anti-traditionalist, sometimes radical sensibilities. Invariably, it presented common or unpolished themes, ones that shunned idealization and occasionally, logic.
Joining the two apparently antithetical terms would appear to present an almost contradictory concept. However, the combination of certain aspects of each art form, specifically conceptual idealism with observed naturalism, allowed for a distinct transformation. The resulting symbiosis, rather than displacing either tradition, has given rise to a vibrant contemporary art form, Classical Realism.
Classical Realism, as promoted by Richard Lack, had its immediate roots in what is known as the Boston School of painting. It is one of the longest practicing schools of painting in American Art. According to Lack, the Boston painters became famous as practitioners of a style based on authoritative draftsmanship, richly pigmented surfaces and, above all, a steadfast devotion to truth in nature and the beauty of colour. Members included Edmund Tarbell, D M Bunker, William McGregor Paxton, and most notably, R H Ives Gammell (1893-1981).
Ives Gammell, “a first rate intellectual, and an exceptionally gifted artist”, was singularly important for carrying the tradition forward. He was dedicated to preserving and passing on knowledge of the traditional techniques of picture making. As well, he recognized the necessity of bringing both the Academic and Impressionist traditions together through the Modernist period, when the art world appeared to be indifferent, and at times, almost antagonistic to both.
Classical Realism is the living embodiment of the artistic principles of the European academic, and American Impressionist traditions.
These principles are as follows.
Truth to Nature- Good drawing, plausible colour, truthfulness of light and shadow, and skill in execution, all resulting in a subtle representation of nature.
Thorough Artistic Training- Excellence in representation through the continuing development of proper draftsmanship, visual memory, and subtlety and sensitivity in colour; continuing perfection of hand/eye coordination.
Beauty- Beautiful in line and colour, producing harmonious and agreeable sensations in the viewer. Design and drawing will show concordant patterning of line, colour, and tone.
Skillful Crafstmanship- Technical skill acquired by diligent training and practice; completeness in concept and execution, embodying everything the painter wished to say in an understandable way.
Classical Realism is a living sensibility, an artistic point of view characterized by love and respect for the great traditions of Western art. Classical realist artists understand and interpret the present age, giving meaning to the world that surrounds us, using the timeless qualities inherent in the best art of the past.
“He who would succeed must work along the beaten
path first and then gradually, as he progresses,
try to add something new but sane, something
which arises out of the new realities of life”
Thomas Eakins
CLASSICAL
REALISM