Photographic Realism in Oil Painting: Materials and Techniques

The Essence of Photographic Realism

Photographic realism, also known as photorealism, involves creating paintings that resemble high-resolution photographs. This style emerged in the 1960s in the United States, with artists focusing on urban scenes, portraits, and still life. Unlike simple photo imitations, photorealism requires artists to take numerous photographs, carefully select the best ones, and create detailed sketches before starting the final painting.

Key Characteristics

• Subject Matter: Common subjects include cityscapes, vehicles, shops, and portraits.
• Detail Orientation: Artists meticulously scrutinize the structure, form, and shading of their subjects.
• Preliminary Work: Detailed sketches and careful planning are essential.

Materials Used in Photographic Realism

Canvas and Foundation

The substrate material for photorealistic paintings is typically a fine canvas with a smooth powder or oily foundation. This ensures a flawless surface for detailed work.

Paints

• Oil Paints: Preferred for their rich texture and blending capabilities.
• Acrylics (Propylene): Used for their quick-drying properties and versatility.

Tools

• Pencils: For initial sketches and outlines.
• Turpentine: Used to fix sketches on the canvas.
• Soft Brushes: Essential for smooth, uniform application of paint.

Techniques in Photographic Realism

Preparation and Sketching

1. Photographic Reference: Artists take multiple photographs, paying close attention to lighting, composition, and details.
2. Grid Amplification: Sketches are transferred to the canvas using a grid system or an overhead projector.
3. Detailed Outlines: Pencils are used to draw precise outlines on the canvas.

Painting Process

1. Local Focus: Artists start painting from a specific area, ensuring detailed and in-depth characterization.
2. Smooth Application: Excess paint is removed with soft brushes to maintain a smooth surface.
3. Layering: Direct painting techniques are often used, with occasional indirect techniques for polishing.

Final Adjustments

Once all parts are painted, artists review the entire piece to ensure consistency and make necessary adjustments.

Interesting Stats and Facts

• Market Value: Photorealistic paintings can fetch high prices at auctions. For instance, Chuck Close's "John" sold for $4.8 million in 2012 (source: Christie's).
• Time-Consuming: Creating a photorealistic painting can take hundreds of hours due to the level of detail involved.
• Popularity: Despite its labor-intensive nature, photorealism remains popular, with artists like Richard Estes and Ralph Goings gaining significant recognition.

Conclusion

Photographic realism in oil painting is a demanding yet rewarding art form that combines the precision of photography with the traditional techniques of painting. By understanding the materials and techniques involved, artists can create stunning works that capture the essence of their subjects with unparalleled detail.

For more information on photorealism and its techniques, you can explore resources from The Art Story and Tate.

This article provides a comprehensive overview of photographic realism in oil painting, highlighting the meticulous process and the artistry involved. Whether you're an aspiring artist or an art enthusiast, understanding these techniques can deepen your appreciation for this intricate art form.