From ideological realism to commemorative realism: an analysis of portraits and genre paintings in Russian art between Socialist Realism and Severe Style

Each art form is closely connected and influenced by the historical period in which it appears. This statement in the Soviet Union is clearly reflected in two aesthetic currents: Socialist Realism and the Severe Style. The first mentioned was the artistic doctrine imposed by the Stalinist regime, used for propaganda purposes to represent the progress, unity and success of the socialist regime. The second one was born with the change of political leadership due to the death of Stalin and is characterized by austerity and sincerity in representation. These two artistic styles, although born within the Soviet Union, offer two different visions of the world that surrounds them and this makes their comparison fruitful. This thesis aims to analyze how Socialist Realism and the Severe Style are in visual and meaning contrast, focusing on the study and comparison of works relevant to both artistic currents. In particular, genre paintings and portraits of both currents will be analyzed and compared as a basis for study. The aim is to explore how these two artistic currents developed and responded to ideological and political needs. This study uses comparative analysis and close readings of visual material.