New Book 'Devoted to Realism' is Released

Closter, NJ

The Realist painting style is considered a form of high art that requires years of practice, disciple and talent to master. It flourished in the 19th century and many of its proponents achieved the heights of popularity and acclaim in their time. One such example is Gustave Courbet who was the leading proponent of his era. The painting style has survived into the 21st century and yet its popularity has somewhat waned in the recent years. This is why in "Devoted to Realism" author Helga Olsson has endeavored to show art lovers that the Realist style is still a relevant artistic style and should flourish in the 21st century.

This book is a compilation of the author's experiences in the Realist style of painting. It shows her disdain for the popular painting styles being used today. This is because she considers the styles as lacking in discipline and form and considers the techniques used as little more than slash and dash and sloppy painting. She also states that the painting styles have deteriorated and cannot be considered the equal of the great masters of the past.

This book shows the true merits of Realism and why it should flourish in the 21st century. It shows Realism's versatility and the artistic vision, discipline and high level of skill necessary to succeed in such a painting style.

This compelling book shows readers that Realism is still a potent art form and should not only survive but flourish in the 21st century. "Devoted to Realism" is a highly informative and engrossing book that gives credence to Realism as a high art form.

For more information on this book, interested parties may log on to Xlibris.com.

About the Author
Helga Olsson was born in Syrau, Germany, one week before the onset of World War II. At the age of 10 she came to America. She became a graduate of Teaneck High School and Beloit College, Wisconsin. She founded an art school in her home where she taught a graduate academic curriculum, from pencil to egg tempera, which took a span of 36 years to complete. After three years of black and white studies, years of beginning color studies (pastels), advanced color studies, (oils), and graduate color studies, (egg tempera) many additional years were spent on portraiture, outdoor nature scenes, architectural perspective, individual works, art history, and travelling to off-site locations, hosting artist's demonstrations. Many students displayed their works in individual art shows. I myself also began to sell children's portraits. One of the more memorable highlights of my career was an individual one-woman art show at the Belskie Museum in Closter. I continue to paint, in fact I am just finishing a scene from the nature center where the lake is infused with the gold of the recent autumn leaves, into which I am placing ducks and the one remaining white goose.

Devoted to Realism* by Helga Olsson
Picture Book; $61.99; 112 pages; 978-1-4836-9911-0
Picture Book Hardcover; $71.99; 112 pages; 978-1-4836-9912-7
e-book; $3.99; 978-1-4836-9913-4

Members of the media who wish to review this book may request a complimentary paperback copy by contacting the publisher at (888) 795-4274 x. 7879. To purchase copies of the book for resale, please fax Xlibris at (812) 355-4079 or call (888) 795-4274 x. 7879.

For more information on self-publishing or marketing with Xlibris, visit Xlibris.com. To receive a free publishing guide, please call (888) 795-4274.

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