The New Realism: 10 Contemporary Artists Redefining the Figurative Tradition
The landscape of contemporary art is undergoing a profound resurgence of representational techniques, a movement often categorized under the umbrella of Contemporary Realism. Far from being a mere imitation of the past, this "New Realism" integrates classical mastery with modern psychological depth, social commentary, and diverse cultural perspectives. At the heart of this revival is the 33PA community, a global collective of artists dedicated to the pursuit of figurative excellence.
Presented by 33PA via 33 Contemporary and curated by Director Didi Menendez, the exhibition "33PA Community of Contemporary Realism" on Artsy showcases the breadth of this community. Below, we feature ten standout artists from this show whose work exemplifies the vitality of the realist tradition today.
Based in northern New Jersey, Stephanie Deshpande is a master of the psychological portrait. Her work often features a deceptive simplicity that invites viewers to look deeper into the narrative subtext. In Woe Unto Them Who Call Evil Good, Deshpande utilizes her signature muted palette and precise brushwork to evoke a sense of quiet introspection and moral weight.
Dutch-born artist Emma Kalff explores the boundary between the tangible and the ethereal. Her paintings, such as Perennial Adolescent, are described as distillations of everyday life filtered through memory and dreams. Her classical training in oil is evident in her ability to capture light, yet her compositions often lean toward a subtle surrealism that challenges the viewer's perception of reality.
3. Matt Talbert
Matt Talbert brings a spirited dynamism to the Southern California art scene. By combining expressive, almost abstract brushwork with traditional figurative techniques, Talbert captures the "spirited intuition" of his subjects. Chasing The Sun is a testament to his ability to balance technical accuracy with a raw, emotional energy that feels distinctly contemporary.
Italian painter Lorena Lepori focuses on the exploration of feminine identity and energy. Her work often features large-scale figures that confront clichés and societal expectations. In her piece Wrath, Lepori uses the human form as a vessel for complex emotional states, blending realistic execution with the abstraction of an idea.
While many in the community focus on the figure, Elena Degenhardt is renowned for her "Inscapes"—deeply personal explorations of elemental forces like water. Using pastel, charcoal, and oil, her work in the show, So at Home, demonstrates her unique ability to capture the movement and psychological resonance of the natural world, often reflecting themes of awe and fear.
Shane Scribner is a representational artist who bridges the gap between classical training and modern aesthetics. His work often utilizes vivid hues and stark backgrounds to create contemporary portraits that feel both timeless and fresh. Metallic showcases his mastery of oil on aluminum, a medium that enhances the luminous quality of his figurative subjects.
A New Yorker now based in Miami, Victor Gadino infuses his realistic style with influences from mythology, religion, and pop culture. His work is characterized by a high level of finish and symbolic complexity. The Currency of Red Lips exemplifies his ability to weave contemporary themes into a framework that honors the Victorian masters he admires.
Ellen Starr Lyon is a figurative painter whose work is driven by the human face's ability to communicate complex emotions. Her style incorporates a colorful palette and multiple thin, luminous layers. Braids and Gloves, Too highlights her interest in the search for identity and the subtle narratives found in domestic life.
Australian artist Narelle Zeller is celebrated for her detailed and sensitive depictions of the human condition. Her work often leans toward hyperrealism, yet it maintains a classical soul. Venus in Lace Armour is a stunning example of her ability to render intricate textures—such as lace and skin—while maintaining a profound emotional connection with the subject.
Sarah Warda, an American realist of Assyrian and French Huguenot descent, brings a rich cultural heritage to her work. Trained at the Lyme Academy of Fine Arts, her paintings are grounded in formal excellence. Enjoli Set Free reflects her commitment to representational art as a means of exploring personal and cultural liberation.
Conclusion
The 33PA community serves as a vital hub for artists who believe that the figurative tradition is not a relic of the past, but a living, breathing language. By showcasing these ten artists, we see a snapshot of a movement that is diverse, technically rigorous, and deeply engaged with the complexities of the modern world.
For those interested in exploring more, the full exhibition is available for viewing on Artsy.