Welcome to this weeks edition of Creative Culture Corner. I have a content packed newsletter for you, including the first of ten art styles I will be covering, an artist spotlight with the incredible @madam_selkie, an amazing section titled “Shea Says” from our friend @sheasmith1, and my featured thread. I really appreciate you all joining me every week and would love to hear your feedback on how you thought this edition is, don’t hesitate to drop a comment at the end of the newsletter. Lets get ready to dive in and explore the revolutionary art movement that forever transformed our perception, painting life as it truly is.

In This Newsletter:

• Artist Spotlight feat madam_selkie

• Dive into Realism: Understand the Art Style that Revolutionized Perception

• Shea Says

• Thread of the Week

Artist Spotlight:

Featuring: madam_selkie

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Selkie is a Brazilian-British self-taught traditional and digital artist. Born in Rio de Janeiro, she has spent most of her adult life and career in the United Kingdom, her beloved second home. Selkie's works are inspired by life, love, joy and heartbreak, and embellished by the colors and vibrancy she grew up with in Brazil. Part intuitive, part planned, her artworks first flow from emotions and then gain structure, as if to try to make sense of the chaos of existence.

Dive into Realism: Understanding the Art Style that Revolutionized Perception

Art has forever been a mirror reflecting societal undertones and the rawness of the human state across countless ages. Amidst the array of artistic movements, Realism stands out, boldly pushing back against the romanticized idealization that ruled. Born in the heart of the 19th century, Realism dared to reveal the world in its genuine, unpolished reality.

The Reality of Realism: Stripping Away the Ideal

Just as its name suggests, Realism is all about portraying a truthful and genuine representation of people, places, and scenarios. It said goodbye to the exaggerated, idealized depictions of former eras, choosing instead to highlight life in its most raw, uncensored form. Artists turned their back on the usual royal or divine subjects, focusing their gaze on the everyday existence of regular folks. They boldly defied the traditional ideals of beauty, choosing instead to depict subjects in their raw, unadulterated experiences.

Gustave Courbet, often crowned the 'mastermind' behind Realism, is celebrated for his daring departure from the artistic standards of his day. His work initiated a significant shift in the art world. One of his renowned pieces, "The Stone Breakers," presents laborers in worn-out attire, immersed in the strenuous task of crushing stones against a desolate backdrop. This isn't a scene borrowed from myth or religion, but a pure, unfiltered portrayal of life as it is.

Beyond the Surface: The True Essence of Realism

Realism is not satisfied with mere superficial depictions; it seeks to capture the very soul of its subjects. This deep, philosophical foundation of Realism is mirrored in the techniques Realist artists used. Detailed observation, natural light utilization, and a focus on true-to-life colors and textures became their signature style, crafting compositions that were not just visually precise, but emotionally stirring as well.

Édouard Manet, a prominent figure of the Realist movement, took Realism to new frontiers. His magnum opus, "Olympia," presents a nude woman comfortably resting on a bed, her gaze meeting the viewer's without any hint of shyness. Contrary to the idealized nudes of former times, Manet's Olympia is a true woman, unapologetically claiming her presence and challenging societal norms. This bold deviation from tradition hurled Realism into the spotlight.

The Ripple Effect of Realism: A Radical Shift in Perception

French novelist Marcel Proust once said, "Only through art can we emerge from ourselves and know what another person sees," and this idea perfectly encapsulates Realism. It spurred a significant departure from traditional artistic norms, with its authentic depictions mirroring societal changes and lending a voice to those frequently overlooked. This fresh perspective paved the way for future movements like Impressionism and Social Realism.

The Echoes of Realism in Today's World

Fast-forward to the 21st century, Realism's principles can be found across a myriad of contemporary art forms. The video game, "This War of Mine," serves as a notable example of Realism's influence in modern media. The game puts players in the shoes of civilians struggling to survive in a city scarred by war, a stark contrast to the usual glamorized war scenarios popular media often offers. This compelling example underscores the enduring legacy of Realism.

Taking a Step Back: Embracing Realism

As we wrap up our exploration of Realism, it becomes clear how it challenges us to observe life without any filters. Embracing Realism not only enhances our understanding of art but also helps us better comprehend the world we inhabit. Standing before a Realist painting, we're prompted to stop, reflect, and cherish life in its unedited, raw grandeur. The continuous impact of Realism serves as a reminder of art's power to convey truth, urging us to delve deeper into this captivating movement.

Shea Says:

Becoming the Rick Rubin for Visual Artists: Embracing the Pure Creativity Within

In a world where fame and recognition often overshadow the true essence of creativity, there are those of us who strive to uphold the sanctity of artistic expression. I aim to be the Rick Rubin for visual artists, inspired by his new book, "The Creative Act." I embody a profound connection to the purity of creativity and the sacred act of bearing witness to and assisting in channeling new creative work from creators.

Rick Rubin, an acclaimed music producer known for his transformative work with artists like Johnny Cash, Beastie Boys, and Adele, has always demonstrated a deep respect and unwavering connection to pure creativity throughout his illustrious career. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Rubin has taken the time and care to share liberating insights with fellow creatives, offering guidance and inspiration.

I have delved into Rubin's world through "The Creative Act," along with absorbing valuable information from his appearances in interviews such as the recent 60 Minutes episode. By immersing myself in Rubin's teachings, I have successfully embraced and integrated the essence of what Rick Rubin conveys to us all. At its core, Rubin's message is simple yet profound: every single moment is brimming with pure creativity just waiting to be noticed.

I firmly believe in the simplicity of this notion. Inspired by Rubin's teachings, along with my keen interest in modern stoicism and an environment enriched with art and fellow creatives, I have found myself in a uniquely integrated and wonderful place. It is a place where creative productivity flourishes, a place that once existed only in dreams.

This journey is not about me alone; it is a shared experience, an invitation to all who seek to unlock their creative potential. My affinity towards Rick Rubin is not about fame, recognition, or personal gain. Instead, it is rooted in a deep appreciation for the purity of creativity and a genuine desire to mentor and support visual artists.

To follow in the footsteps of Rick Rubin, I emphasize the importance of embracing the present moment. Each passing second holds infinite possibilities for creative expression, waiting to be recognized and harnessed. It is through this awareness that artists can transcend societal expectations, unlocking their true potential and forging their artistic paths.

I extend a heartfelt invitation to join me on this transformative journey. As a guiding breadcrumb, Rick Rubin's wisdom and influence shine bright. By immersing ourselves in Rubin's teachings, artists can tap into a wellspring of inspiration, unraveling the boundless possibilities of their creative endeavors.

In conclusion, my aspiration to become the Rick Rubin for visual artists emerges from a deep understanding of the sanctity of creativity. Inspired by Rubin's unwavering commitment to the purity of artistic expression, I invite fellow artists to embrace the notion that every moment is ripe with creative potential. By venturing on this path, we can discover the profound joy of genuine creative productivity. Let us join together on this remarkable journey, fueled by love for art and a shared commitment to honoring the creative act in all its purity.

Thread of the Week:

Thank you for reading Creative Culture Corner. Make sure to tell your friends and leave a comment for me if you enjoyed this edition. Next week we will dive into Impressionism. Make sure to subscribe so you don’t miss out. Until next week!

Much Love,

Creative Culture