Hey Lykkers, welcome to the exciting world of 21st-century painting!

With advancements in technology and shifts in societal norms, artists have been able to explore a diverse range of painting styles that capture the essence of our world.

Let's talk about seven major styles of art that have shaped the course of painting history, inspiring artists to express their creativity in unique ways.

Realism: A Closer Look at the Real Deal

Realism takes center stage by portraying subjects in a lifelike manner without abstracting or stylizing them.

From masterpieces like Leonardo da Vinci's "Mona Lisa," realistic paintings draw viewers in with intricate details and realistic perspectives, creating a sense of depth and authenticity.

Painterly: Embracing the Act of Painting

The Painterly style emerged during the Industrial Revolution, emphasizing the art of painting itself. Artists like Henri Matisse showcased the character of brushwork and pigments in their works, embracing visible textures and marks left by tools. Dive into the world of Painterly painting for a raw and unapologetic approach to artistry.

Impressionism: Capturing Light and Gesture

Impressionism revolutionized painting by focusing on capturing light and gesture rather than precise details. Artists like Claude Monet and Vincent van Gogh utilized bold strokes of color to infuse vibrancy into their works, creating a visual feast for the eyes. Explore the world of Impressionism to witness how seemingly unfinished strokes have captured the hearts of art lovers worldwide.

Expressionism and Fauvism: Painting Life Beyond Reality

Expressionism and Fauvism ventured into bold and unrealistic colors to depict life as felt rather than seen. From Edvard Munch's haunting "The Scream" to Henri Matisse's lively dancers, these styles capture the essence of emotions and idealized landscapes, pushing boundaries and challenging conventions.

Abstraction: Painting the Essence of the Subject

Abstraction breaks free from realistic details, focusing on the essence of the subject as interpreted by the artist. Artists like Georgia O'Keeffe stripped subjects of fine details to create dreamy landscapes, while abstract works like Pablo Picasso's "Three Musicians" play with shapes and patterns to evoke a sense of wonder and intrigue.

Abstract: Embracing the Subjective

Purely abstract works, as seen in the Abstract Expressionist movement, revel in the subjective nature of art. Artists like Jackson -Pollock and Mark Rothko explore colors, textures, and materials to create dynamic and immersive experiences for viewers. Lose yourself in the vibrant world of abstract paintings that challenge the boundaries of perception.

Photorealism: Beyond Reality

Photorealism blurs the line between art and reality, meticulously capturing details with precision and accuracy. Artists like Chuck Close create larger-than-life portraits based on photographs, leaving no detail unnoticed. Discover the mesmerizing world of Photorealism, where art imitates life in the most intricate way possible.

As you explore these diverse painting styles, remember to embrace your creativity and experiment with different approaches to develop your unique artistic voice. Happy painting, Lykkers!