Heroic Realism (jan 1, 1900 – jan 1, 1945)

Description:

Heroic Realism Graphic Design Style: 1900-1940's



Aesthetic Style:

Heroic realism is commonly labelled as propaganda. Its characteristics are realism and the depiction of figures as ideal types or symbols, often with explicit rejection of modernism in art. In polite society, it’s rude to point, just as it is to stare, but in heroic realism, all bets are off! Continuing the theme of hand gestures in propaganda design, finger pointing is another common element of these posters. In particular, it’s the index finger on the right hand pointing at the person looking at the poster. Stylistically it's common to see the raising fist surrounded by other design elements to emphasise the propaganda impact. When the propaganda machine was in full swing during wartime, there was a need to produce designs that went beyond the ordinary and aspired to greatness. Hence, you’re going to see a lot of idealistic and very unrealistic depictions of people, places, and things.



Famous Practitioners:

Aleksandr Gerasimov
Volodymyr Patyk
Jüri Arrak
Igor Savitsky
Elene Akhvlediani


Technology:

Artists usually prioritise emotion and captivation in their art. Bold colours and the depiction of leaders in either grotesque or flattering manner, as it was used for propaganda. Based on the propaganda design assets in our marketplace, you can immediately see telltale characteristics that are common to all types of heroic realism, regardless of what country, cause or movement produces them. In short, they’re all about presenting things in a highly idealized fashion for maximum propaganda points. Heroic Realism artists also used things like realistic imagery, usually featuring one person, promoting a clear ideal as that was extremely important, a strong and bold message in text to capture an audience, and a very bold font was always used. Unsurprisingly patriotism was a big inspiration at the time.

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