What does 'Naturalism' refer to in the context of art?

Naturalism in the context of art refers to a style that emphasizes realistic representation of life. This means that artists strive to depict their subjects—be it human figures, animals, or nature—in a way that closely resembles how they appear in the real world. This style focuses on accurate proportions, light, shadow, and texture to create lifelike images. The goal of naturalism is to capture the essence of the subject's appearance and behavior, thereby inviting viewers to connect more deeply with the depicted reality.

In art history, naturalism emerged as a significant approach during the Renaissance, when artists sought to break away from the more stylized and abstract forms of earlier periods. By observing nature and human anatomy closely, artists were able to create works that conveyed a sense of authenticity and emotional depth, allowing audiences to relate to the artwork on a more personal level.