Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

What is a defining feature of the Realism art movement in the 19th century?

1. Exaggerated emotions through vivid colors

2. A focus on detailed, realistic, and factual descriptions

3. Celebration of heroes and personal stories

4. Emphasis on abstract and non-representational forms

The correct answer is: A focus on detailed, realistic, and factual descriptions

The defining feature of the Realism art movement in the 19th century is its focus on detailed, realistic, and factual descriptions. Realism emerged as a response to the idealism of Romanticism and the abstract tendencies of earlier movements. Artists associated with Realism sought to depict everyday life and common people in a truthful manner, often highlighting the ordinary and mundane aspects of existence. This movement emphasized the importance of representing subjects with accuracy and sincerity, with an emphasis on the social and political realities of the time. By concentrating on real-life situations and characters, Realist artists aimed to encourage viewers to engage with the world as it truly is rather than as it is idealized or romanticized. This objective led to the representation of working-class life and issues relevant to society, making realism an important forerunner to later movements that would continue exploring similar themes in different contexts.