Hyperrealismus

Hyperrealismus is a term used to describe a range of contemporary visual art practices that aim to reproduce life with extraordinary realism, often surpassing ordinary photographic accuracy. It developed from photorealism in the late 20th century and emphasizes precise rendering of surfaces, light, and textures. Works in this vein frequently invite viewers to consider perception, memory, and the boundary between image and reality.

Origin and mediums: The movement arose mainly in Europe and North America. Artists work in painting and sculpture, using photography as a reference while applying traditional techniques or innovative methods to achieve a heightened sense of presence. In painting, meticulous brushwork or airbrushing may be employed; in sculpture, life-size or enlarged figures and objects are crafted with astonishing detail.

Subjects and aims: Hyperrealist works commonly depict portraits, still lifes, urban scenes, or scenes from everyday life and consumer culture. The purpose is not merely imitation but to provoke reflection on illusion, media saturation, and the act of looking. The movement is often described as a refinement of photorealism or as an exploration of emotional or conceptual content that accompanies extreme detail.

Regional and scope notes: In Czech, German, and other languages, Hyperrealismus is used to refer to similar practices within contemporary art. Critics recognize a spectrum within hyperrealist work, ranging from clinical, documentary-like images to those with eerie or uncanny undertones.