Naturalism is a philosophical theory that relates scientific method to philosophy by affirming that all beings and events in the universe (whatever their inherent character may be) are natural. Consequently, all knowledge of the universe falls within the pale of scientific investigation. The theory also encapsulates conjectures about the supernatural. Inspired by Naturalism, a regularity, unity, and wholeness can be seen in artwork since the beginning of time. This search for answers has certainly transcended into the field of art. Man's endless search for concrete proofs of his beliefs is seen as a confirmation of naturalistic methodology.
Until the early nineteenth century both landscape and the human figure in art tended to be idealized or stylized according to conventions derived from the classical tradition. In the nineteenth century there was a trend towards representing things in a more realistic way. In Britain, this was pioneered by John Constable who famously said, “there is room enough for a natural peinture." Naturalism became one of the major trends of the century and, combined with realism of the subject, led to impressionism and modern art. Naturalism is often associated with plein air practice. Many contemporary artists today who display their artwork on Artsper are influenced by Naturalism whether unconsciously or not. Artists such as Maurice Sapiro, Jeffrey Reed, among others. Here is a curated selection of Naturalist-inspired pieces of art.
