Romantic vs Realism Art Analysis

Romantic Style

    My favorite style of artwork from the Romantic era is the Romantic style itself. I appreciate this style for several reasons. One key aspect is the emphasis on individualism that artists were able to convey in their work. This departure from Neoclassicism allowed artists to express their personal feelings and emotions, resulting in unique masterpieces from each creator who embraced this style during that period.

"Evening" (1818) Théodore Géricault - France

    Artist Théodore Géricault often allowed his creative impulses to manifest vividly in his work. In his canvas “Evening,” he crafted an idealized Italian landscape that reflects his nostalgia for Italy after returning to Paris. Through a rich palette and dynamic lighting, Géricault conveys his emotional state, creating a dramatic mood that resonates throughout the piece. In this painting, Géricault expresses his mindset through the use of color, light, and line. The dark, earthy tones establish a somber atmosphere that enhances the painting's moodiness. Notably, certain areas of the landscape are illuminated, and this interplay of light and shadow adds a dramatic effect to the composition. The artist also incorporates a blend of architectural and natural lines to create a sense of structure that bridges the divide between nature and man-made elements. Overall, the empty, dark landscape evokes feelings of loneliness and isolation, leaving one to ponder the absence of people. The mysterious emptiness of the scene further contributes to the romantic style of the painting.

“The Twenty-Eight of July: Liberty Leading the People” (1830) Eugène Delacroix - France

    I appreciated the romantic style for its capacity to give artists a wider range of expression while remaining attuned to the social and political issues of the time. A notable example is Eugène Delacroix, who created “The Twenty-Eight of July: Liberty Leading the People” who used emotional depth to convey the concept of Liberty during the Revolution.

    In this painting, the artist employs a rich mix of color tones throughout the work. Warmer colors are primarily used for the figures, representing the intensity and eagerness of the uprising. In contrast, the background features cooler tones, which evoke a sense of somberness about the event. The vibrant colors of the French flag prominently stand out, symbolizing liberation and patriotism. 

    Another striking element is Lady Liberty at the center of the composition. Her exposed breasts introduce a touch of romanticism, while the way she is positioned as the focal point, alongside the dynamic movement of the surrounding figures, underscores the central purpose of the fight. The sweeping lines used to depict these figures convey a sense of urgency and dedication, suggesting they are actively engaged in battle. 

    Overall, this painting powerfully communicates the passion inherent in the struggle for freedom and liberty. It encapsulates feelings of hope and patriotism, making it truly inspiring.

Realist Style 

    My least favorite style from the Romanticism era is the realist style. I have several reasons for this preference. Firstly, I disagree with the beliefs of the Pre-Raphaelites, who asserted that only art created before the Renaissance qualifies as "true" art. I hold the view that all artwork possesses value, as each piece conveys its own unique story. Art is inherently subjective, meaning there is no right or wrong way for an artist to create their masterpiece. While I respect the Pre-Raphaelites' choice to focus on realism in their paintings, I believe they should refrain from criticizing other idealistic forms of art that have emerged throughout history, which have contributed significantly to the evolution of the art world.

"Barge Haulers on the Volga" (1870-1873) Illya Repin - Russia

    I believe that realist artwork offers significant benefits by effectively conveying contemporary events and social injustices to its viewers. A notable example is Ilya Repin's painting “Barge Haulers on the Volga,” which serves not only as an oil on canvas but also as a poignant commentary on the social inequalities faced by lower-class peasants of that era. In this artwork, we see a group of weary, defeated workers straining to pull a ship to shore. The diagonal lines created by the positioning of the figures, who are bent over and moving forward, vividly illustrate the physical challenges they endured in their labor. The use of earth tones enhances the realism depicted in the painting. Repin employs lighter colors and space to depict the boat in the distance, contrasting it with the darker hues that position the figures in the foreground. This technique draws the viewer's attention to the pressing issue of the physically strained lower-class workers. The emotions I experience from this piece are a deep sense of empathy and sorrow for these individuals who are struggling.

“The Artist’s Wife and His Setter Dog” (1881 -1889) Thomas Eakins - America

    I appreciate this style's efforts to portray women as realistically as possible in their paintings. Personally, if I were constantly confronted with idealized representations of women with unrealistic bodies, I would begin to question my own appearance. One painting from this era that captures a realistic depiction of women is “The Artist’s Wife and His Setter Dog” by Thomas Eakins. As an artist, Eakins was committed to avoiding idealization in his figures. In this painting of his wife, she is depicted leisurely seated in a chair with a book and a dog. The shadowing around Eakins’s wife's face delineates the natural creases and discoloration, adding depth to her portrayal. The lines used to depict her posture convey a sense of candidness and spontaneity, rather than a contrived pose. Eakins employed a muted, earthy color palette for the environment, which allows the dog to almost blend into the surroundings, while his wife's light blue dress stands out prominently. Ultimately, my emotional reaction is one of catharsis; the woman appears relaxed and natural, evoking the feeling that I am standing behind Eakins as he paints her. 

    Overall, both artistic styles offer distinct value to the viewer. The romanticist style, emerging from the revolutionary period, seeks to inspire the imagination and creativity within one's mind. In contrast, the realist style developed as a reaction against romanticism, striving to keep the viewer anchored in reality. Both styles have the power to evoke strong emotions in the audience. However, I personally prefer to engage with art as a means of escaping reality, allowing my mind to wander in wonder.

Works Cited

DiPalma, Jessica. “Théodore Géricault Artist Overview and Analysis.” The Art Story, The Art Story Contributors, 16 Sept. 2017, www.theartstory.org/artist/gericault-theodore/. 

DiPalma, Jessica. “Thomas Eakins Paintings, Bio, Ideas.” Edited by Valerie Hellstein, The Art Story, 25 Oct. 2017, www.theartstory.org/artist/eakins-thomas/. 

“Realism Movement Overview.” The Art Story, www.theartstory.org/movement/realism/. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024. 

Zygmont, Bryan. “Eugène Delacroix, Liberty Leading the People.” Smarthistory, 22 Nov. 2015, smarthistory.org/delacroix-liberty-leading-the-people/.