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Hyperreal Humanist Portraiture

This Art from Heikki Leis is Expressive and Eccentric

— April 21, 2012 — Art & Design
Many artists shy away from realism but not Heikki Leis. The Tartu, Estonia-based artist and photographer has no qualms about this notoriously unsympathetic style of art. Many say there is no right and wrong in art; that's not entirely true. For a piece to qualify as realist, everything must be perfectly proportioned, the light must be exactly correct and the composition must usually be up to par with classical standards.

Beyond technical considerations, many would agree that good art is always inspired. The pieces featured here depict everyday people wearing expressions ranging from natural to humorous to surreal. In one, an old woman stares stoically at the viewer from the shade of a blue hood that poignantly matches her blue eyes; cryptically, text is displayed across her face. The realism and sometimes eccentric manner of Leis's work does well to convey the humanity in his subjects.
Trend Themes
1. Realism - Embracing realism in art presents disruptive innovation opportunities to challenge traditional artistic boundaries and elevate the level of technical mastery.
2. Expressive Portraiture - Exploring expressive and unconventional portrait styles opens up disruptive innovation opportunities to capture the depth and complexity of human emotions in unique ways.
3. Humorous Surrealism - Combining humor and surrealism within art allows for disruptive innovation opportunities to create thought-provoking and visually captivating compositions that challenge conventional narratives.
Industry Implications
1. Fine Arts - The fine arts industry can benefit from disruptive innovation by embracing new forms of realism that push the boundaries of traditional artistic techniques.
2. Photography - The photography industry has an opportunity for disruptive innovation by exploring unconventional and expressive approaches to portraiture that go beyond standard conventions.
3. Art Education - The art education industry can seize disruptive innovation opportunities by incorporating humor and surrealism into curriculum to encourage unique artistic expression and critical thinking.
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