Magic realism

Magic realism, a term first coined by German art critic Franz Roh in 1925, refers to a painterly style known as Neue Sachlichkeit ('New Objectivity'). This style emerged in response to the Expressionism of the pre-World War I era, focusing on strange and haunting imagery reflective of the changes occurring in modern society. It was characterized by a representation of reality with a magical or mysterious quality, creating a sense of the uncanny in everyday life​​​​.

German artist Max Beckmann was notable in the New Objectivity style, while the French Surrealists, such as Leonora Carrington and Rene Magritte, also shared similarities with Magic Realism. Unlike Surrealism, which delved into dreams and the unconscious mind, Magic Realism focused on extracting the inherent strangeness of reality. The style was influenced by Northern European Renaissance artists like Jan van Eyck and Hieronymus Bosch, known for their hyper-real attention to detail and unsettling visual effects​​.

In the United States, artists like Edward Hopper and Andrew Wyeth exemplified Magic Realism in their paintings. Hopper's "New York Movie" (1939) and Wyeth's "Soaring" (1942-50) are classic examples of this style, where everyday scenes are portrayed with an eerie, mysterious quality, often highlighting feelings of solitude and disconnection​​.

Magic Realism also had a significant presence in Latin America, particularly in literature, with authors such as Gabriel García Márquez, Isabel Allende, and Jorge Luis Borges. This style in literature involves the matter-of-fact inclusion of fantastic or mythical elements into seemingly realistic fiction, creating a narrative that is grounded in reality yet transcends it with elements of the fantastic or magical​​​​.

For collectors and experts in art and antiques, Magic Realism offers a unique perspective on the blending of the real and the surreal, inviting a deeper contemplation of the world around us. If you're interested in further exploring this intriguing art style and staying updated on related sales and auction events, consider signing up for updates related to Magic Realism. This will provide valuable insights and opportunities for those passionate about this distinctive and thought-provoking art movement.