Types of Painting Styles

There is a huge range of different styles that are incorporated into art, with some having subtle differences between them to bold, striking changes that are easy to spot. These are some of the most popular types of painting art styles you’ll see in the modern day.

Realism

Realism is a painting art style that aims to give the viewer a reflection of the real world. Many of the most famous paintings are painted in this style and for many, paintings made in this style are what they will think of when they think of ‘art’. It is important, however, to make the distinction between realism and photorealism – the former concerns itself with a realistic scene but does not aim to be a true depiction.

Photorealism

You may also see photorealism referred to as hyperrealism or super-realism. This painting style aims to create a painting that’s indistinguishable from real life or a photograph – hence the name. This makes it distinct from realism, as unless you take a much closer look at a photorealism painting you will not be able to see that it is indeed a painting.

Expressionism

At the other end of the spectrum is expressionism. Expressionism is a style of art that doesn’t concern itself with realism, images and scenes are often distorted or painted with otherworldly, vivid colours that don’t match up with reality. The focus is instead on the artist’s ideas or feelings, which are expressed through the medium of art.

Impressionism

Impressionism is a painting style most commonly associated with the 19th century where small brush strokes are used to build up a larger picture. This art style lies somewhere between expressionism and realism, with a focus on accurate lighting but with no emphasis on a realistic scene.

Abstract

Abstract paintings eschew realism altogether. Whatever the subject in the painting, it may not be accurately represented at all in the artwork. Objects may be represented by a colour or a shape instead, with the interpretation left up to the viewer. The impact of an abstract painting cannot be understated, with many using shocking displays of colour and form to dizzy the senses.

Surrealism

Surrealism first became a movement in the 20th century, with artists such as Salvador Dali becoming household names. Combining abstract concepts with semi-realistic objects that have been twisted or morphed into something unusual, they can be illogical or dreamlike, giving the viewer a heightened sense of reality.

Pop Art

In the 1950s and onwards, pop art became a movement that drew inspiration from the commodification and commercialism of modern life. Using cartoons or adverts in many of the style’s most famous works, pop art uses realistic imagery combined with bold colours to highlight the artist’s intent.