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Definitions of artistic styles

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Barrie Jervis

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When posting work on paintersonline three categories are realism, representational, and illustration. Does anyone know the definitions of these terms? In particular, what is the difference between realism and representational?

Keith Orange

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Look at these definitions from the Tate site: https://www.tate.org.uk/art/art-terms/r/realism https://www.tate.org.uk/art/art-terms/r/representational Can't find a definition of illustration, which is art which is related to written work. I remember a tutor of mine saying that a certain artist was "only an illustrator". Well known illustrators include Norman Rockwell, Beatrix Potter, E H Shepard, Herge'.
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Lewis Cooper

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Yes Keora, other artists who've done illustration are Picasso, Hockney, Manet, Dali...etc, etc. But they're only illustrators. I've read it described as 'only for money', and we all know 'real' art isn't. These art definitions are confusing, I often come across the same artist described as painting in various styles. I think they are mostly labels hung on art by people who don't paint.
michael

Michael Edwards

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Ignore the labels - art is art whether it's done for personal enjoyment or money or both. Many artists paint subjects that they would rather not paint just to put bread on the table but that doesn't detract from the merits of their work.
michael

Michael Edwards

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From realism to abstract enjoy whatever you do. Let censure not distract nor labels trouble you.

Barrie Jervis

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These web references from the Tate help answer my question enormously. So representational refers to images which give the impression of looking like the subject, whereas realism is more focussed on the grittiness of life and the subject. Thanks very much.