In an art world increasingly defined by avant-garde experimentation and innovative concepts, the journey of a traditional-style artist can be a unique and sometimes challenging one. As a practitioner of realism and traditional techniques, you may have encountered well-intentioned advice urging you to break away from the familiar and create something entirely "new." This blog explores the experiences, dilemmas, and triumphs of being a traditional-style artist in a modern landscape from my own navigation.

Rhiannon Piper. *Potrait Study*. 2023. Oil on paper. 6.35 x 7.62cm.

The Pressure to ‘Push the Boundaries’

Growing up in the art world, I drew inspiration from Old Masters like Leonardo Da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Rembrandt. However, my academic journey, from high school to undergrad, led me towards contemporary art, often sidelining the importance of honing technical skills.

My undergrad started with an Art & Design Diploma, a year disrupted by lockdowns. Despite the challenges, I embraced the experimental curriculum, though it took me far from my comfort zone. I was thrown into embracing the abstract and unrefined where despite the bold colors and expressive gestural mark making, the work was empty and inauthentic. Amid these experiences, I discovered a resolute certainty in my traditional style.

Yet, it was my current pursuit, a fine arts bachelor's degree, that truly transformed my artistic journey. It was during a conversation with a professor that I openly discussed maintaining two art practices: one I cherished, the other tailored to meet academic expectations. The professor's reaction made me realize the exhaustion of this dual path.

Reflecting on that conversation, I decided to reclaim my artistic expression. Today, heavily inspired by traditional techniques and artists, I've found my true creative contentment. This path feels authentic, rooted in my genuine passion and artistic identity.

The Power of Personal Expression

In a world that often champions abstract and colorful forms of expression, it's important to recognize that personal artistic expression isn't confined to those boundaries. Expression isn't solely found in bold splashes of colour or abstract compositions; it can also reside in the meticulous strokes of technical mastery and the beauty of realism. The essence of artistry lies in conveying one's inner world, be it through vibrant hues or intricate details. As I've embraced my traditional style, I've come to understand that artistic expression is a multi-dimensional spectrum, and authenticity comes from staying true to oneself, regardless of the chosen style or technique.

Realism as a Timeless Language

Amid the prevailing call to constantly innovate and redefine artistic norms, realism stands as a timeless language that resonates through the ages. Just as the brushstrokes of the Old Masters captured the essence of their subjects with astonishing precision, the art of realism today continues to wield its own profound impact. The intricate portrayal of life's intricacies and the painstaking attention to detail hold a unique power that transcends trends. While the art world may evolve, the value of realism endures as a testament to the enduring beauty of the familiar and the skillful execution of the artist's vision.

Honoring the Masters and Pioneering the Future

Embracing the historical techniques of art doesn't mean being confined to the past; it's a dynamic journey that intertwines tradition with innovation. As an artist who finds solace in the strokes of the Old Masters, I've discovered that while I pay homage to their techniques, I'm not excluded from the vibrant community of contemporary art. The brushwork that echoes the past can find its place alongside bold experiments and boundary-pushing creations. By honoring the masters, I'm not merely retracing their steps; I'm breathing life into their methods while boldly stepping into a future where past and present coexist harmoniously, enriching the art world with an inspiring fusion of eras.

Fostering Dialogue and Appreciation

In a world that often celebrates the new and the unconventional, I've found my artistic path by embracing the timeless techniques of traditional artistry. From the classrooms that whispered "push the boundaries" to the studios where personal expression flourished, my journey has been a navigation of old and new, realism and innovation. But it's not just about brushes on canvas; it's about voices across generations. The power of personal expression extends beyond the abstract and colourful—it can manifest in the meticulous strokes of realism too. It's a testament to the depth and breadth of human creativity that finds its pulse in the strokes of the Old Masters and the contemporary narratives we weave. As I traverse this artistic terrain, I honor the legacy of great artists while crafting my own narrative, where realism becomes an enduring language. It's about more than my canvas—it's about dialogues between epochs, an appreciation for the threads that connect us all. Whether it's the brushwork of centuries past or the digital strokes of tomorrow, we're all part of an ongoing conversation that weaves the tapestry of art's evolution. Through my journey, I've learned that pushing boundaries isn't confined to innovation alone; it's about pushing the boundaries of perception, embracing diverse expressions, and finding unity in the diverse stories we tell with each brushstroke.

Stay true to your inspiration and passions, dont be swayed into doing what you think others would like to see. Your work will never be able to please everyone - at least let it appeal to yourself.

See you next week,

Rhiannon.

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