I first heard the term “Naturalism” in 1987 when Southwest Art magazine wrote an article about my work. There was an
association made between my work and what was called Naturalism. I really liked the term and thought it affectively defined my work. I continue to use the term when defining my painting. My explanation has always gone something like this:
“I want my work to feel very natural, with minimal embellishment of the scene, depicting it as it is…paintings that feel very natural and real.”
To achieve this affect, I use color studies done on location, photography and imagination. My most creative work incorporates all three, resulting in a painting quite different from all the reference material. (Click images to enlarge)
Emile Friant – “Wrestling” – 71″x 44.87″ – Oil (1889)
I have since come to realize that what I do is not really Naturalism. In reality the movement has its similarities to what I do, but it also has notable differences, one of them being a degree of finish that I have yet to attain. But, hey, I still like the designation. I’ll just use it with a small ‘n’ as in naturalism.
Detail: “October: Gathering Potatoes”
Jules Bastien Lepage – “October: Gathering Potatoes” – 71″x 77″ – Oil (1879)
One of my absolute favorite art books is called, “Beyond Impressionism, The Naturalist Impulse”, by Gabriel Weisberg. In fact, I liked the book so much I later went back and purchased a second one, just in case the first one wore out.
Naturalism was short-lived. Beginning in the late 1870′s, it was pretty much over twenty years later. It began in France, “Duh”, and rapidly spread throughout Europe.
Jules Bastien-Lepage (1848-1884) was the undisputed leader of the new movement. When Lepage died at the early age of only 36, his dear friend, Pascal-Adolphe-Jean Dagnan-Bouveret (1852-1929), carried on the tradition.
Pascal Adolphe Jean Dagnan Bouveret – “Breton Women at a Pardon” – 49″x 55″ – Oil (1887)
Jules-Alexis Muenier – “Tramps” – 57.75″x 56.25″ – Oil (1896)
Due to a rising middle class in France, writers and critics were calling for a less idealized view of life…a modern, more scientific, factual reality. The Impressionists responded one way while another group of young academically trained artists responded in their way. This group became known as the Naturalists…setting the stage for conflict.
Next time: The Naturalists: Their techniques and their eventual demise.
*****************************************************
***If you would like to receive this weekly blog automatically, please complete the simple form on the bottom right of this page. To receive my monthly newsletter complete the form on the top right. Thank You.
I’m pleased to offer both of my instructional videos and book as a complete set. They may also be purchased individually. All are best sellers and include everything I’ve taught in my workshops. You can now take my oil painting workshop right in the comfort of your home, and for a lot less money than physically being present. (Click image to learn more)
And Now…A new video…Just released
(Click image for all the details)
For those that have purchased the book, I invite you to join our new Facebook Group – “Limited Palette Unlimited Color”. If you qualify, I hope you’ll join us. Check us out on Facebook. HERE is the link.
******************************************
John Pototschnik is an Art Renewal Center Living Master. To view his art and bio, please click HERE