REPRESENTATIONAL ART Meaning and
Definition
-
Representational art refers to a style of visual art that aims to portray recognizable subjects from the real world. Also referred to as figurative art or objective art, representational art seeks to depict the external world as it appears to the artist's eye or as it is commonly perceived. This form of artistic expression seeks to portray objects, people, landscapes, or events in a realistic or lifelike manner and places emphasis on accuracy and illusion of reality. It endeavors to capture the essence of the subject matter, using various techniques such as proportion, perspective, light and shadow, texture, and color.
Often contrasted with abstract or non-representational art, representational art is characterized by its ability to render objects or scenes in a recognizable manner. Unlike abstract art, which may depart significantly from identifiable forms, representational art maintains a connection with the external world and acknowledges the importance of visual references. The goal of representational artists is to convey a narrative or evoke an emotional response through depicting subjects that can be easily identified by the viewer, allowing for an immediate and direct connection.
Although representational art has evolved throughout history and has been practiced across various cultures, its enduring appeal lies in its ability to engage the viewer through its realistic and relatable imagery. This form of art often serves as a reflection of the artist's perception of reality or as a means of capturing important moments or themes, thus allowing viewers to explore diverse aspects of the human experience.
Etymology of REPRESENTATIONAL ART
The word "representational" derives from the verb "represent", which has its roots in the Latin word "repraesentare" (re-, meaning "again" + praesentare, meaning "to present"). It entered the English language in the mid-17th century. The term "representational art" specifically emerged in the late 19th century to describe a style of art that aims to depict the visual appearance of objects and people in a realistic manner.
