What is Classical Realism and Naturalism?

I set out trying to define what CR&N is to help guide me on my editing process for both DMOZ and my site.

DMOZ defines Classical Realism as:

Classical Realism is a broad category of artistic style that attempt to combine classicism and realism. This seems an oxymoron since classical art strives to idealize the subject matter, and realism developed as a reaction against the idealists. While remaining true to the Masters with regard to order, beauty and harmony, these paintings also attempt a true representation of nature. Works categorized as Classical Realist may exhibit characteristics of Classicism and Realism as well as Impressionism.

Terms Relating To Classical Realism and Naturalism

My own research turned up these art terms which relate or factor into Classical Realism and Naturalism:

Classical - art of ancient Greece (4-5th centuries), art from 600 BC to the fall of the Rome, and finally any art form that is inspired or influenced by ancient Greek and Rome. 

Academic - works of art that were done according to established, traditional ways being preserved in Academies in Europe.

Neo-Classical - French art style and movement that originated as a reaction to the Baroque in the mid-eighteenth century, and continued into the middle of the nineteenth century. It sought to revive the ideals of ancient Greek and Roman art.

Orientalism - Usually refers to western art whose subject or style is drawn from eastern influences. Most often this work was produced during the nineteenth century.

Realism - The realistic and natural representation of people, places, and/or things in a work of art. The opposite of idealization.  Concentration on humble subjects.

DMOZ does not separately talk about a branch of Classical Realism called Naturalism.  It is an important part of the general movement so it is defined below:

Naturalism - is a visually accurate depiction of subjects shown in an unpretenious and unstaged manor.

Finally as a side note it seems Richard Frederick Lack (painter and teacher) was the first to coin the phrase "Classical Realism."

Several "Schools" of Classical Realism

There are several "schools" within Classical Realism and Naturalism.  They have been broadly defined by the teachers of each and their "style" or "flavor" of CR&N.  This is NOT an official breakdown of the style from a Art scholar it is my own interpretation and I envite your input.  You can contact me at bill indursky (William Eric) bill@flashcap.com.

Here is my list below:

Naturalism (Via Cecil) - Natural and unposed realism using Old Master techniques.

The Italian School of Classical Realism (Annigoni/Simi/Graves) - An Italian/French Neo-Classical vein centered in Florence, Italy.

The American School of Classical Realism (Gammell/Lack) - The reblending back of Neo-Classical and Realist styles centered in Boston and the mid-west of America.

The Germanic/Norwegian School of Classical Realism (Nerdrum) - Classical themes with heavy emphasis on the style of Rembrandt and Dutch masters centered in Norway.

Neo-Academic (Jacob Collins) - The re-connection with pure Academy painting technique and style centered in New York City, America.

Restructured Realism (Seth Jacobs) - Centered around Seth Jacobs (who although travels is based in France)A further variation of realism.

Many of the people involved in these "styles" or "schools" have learned from many of the same teachers and sometimes they defy any categorization other then the general Classical Realism and Naturalist umbrella.

^ back to top