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Allen Memorial Art Museum presents Regarding Realism

The Allen Memorial Art Museum in Oberlin OH presents Regarding Realism an exhibition on view through June 22, 2014.

Gustave Courbet (French, 1819-1877) Castle of Chillon, Evening, 1872 Oil on Canvas R.T. Miller Jr. Fund, 1958.47
Gustave Courbet (French, 1819-1877) Castle of Chillon, Evening, 1872 Oil on Canvas R.T. Miller Jr. Fund, 1958.47

In its various forms, Realism comprises an attempt to find an aesthetic that is true to life. Beginning with artists from mid-nineteenth century France — where the Realist movement first achieved cohesion — then expanding to areas such as The Hague and twentieth-century rural and urban America, Regarding Realism explores various approaches undertaken by artists who shared a common goal of faithfully depicting the ambient world. The various techniques, subjects, and practices used by the artists represented reflect not only the complexity of contemporary life, but also the enormity of their artistic project.

The Realist movement first achieved cohesion in mid-19th century France, where artists began to undermine what they perceived as the contrived artistic practices of the French Academy. Championing subjects that found inspiration in the ambient world rather than in classical tradition, these artists aimed to frankly portray France’s natural landscape, working classes, and rural society.

This exhibition was organized by AMAM Curatorial Assistant Sara Green (OC ’12).