Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Depicting objects, figures, or scenes as seen: Pertaining to art or imagery that aims to portray the visual appearance of subjects from the observable world in a recognizable way. It is the opposite of abstract or non-representational art.

Usage

• The term "representational" is primarily used to describe visual art, such as painting, drawing, or sculpture, that depicts recognizable subjects. It can also apply to other forms of imagery or description.
• It is often used in contrast with terms like "abstract," "non-representational," or "non-objective."

Examples

• Adjective:
  • Most classical portraits and landscapes are representational.
  • The gallery features both abstract and representational works from the 20th century.
  • Her style is highly representational, focusing on accurate depictions of urban life.

Advanced Usage

• "Representational accuracy": Refers to the degree of fidelity with which an artwork depicts its subject.
  • The artist was praised for the representational accuracy of her botanical illustrations.
• "Representational painting": A specific genre of painting focused on depicting recognizable reality.
  • He is known for his mastery of representational painting.

Variants and Related Words

• Represent (verb): To depict, portray, or stand for something.
  • The statue represents a famous historical figure.
• Representation (noun): The act of representing or the state of being represented; a depiction or portrayal.
  • This painting is a representation of a peaceful village.
• Non-representational (adjective): Not depicting recognizable objects or scenes; abstract.
  • The artist moved from representational to non-representational art later in her career.

Synonyms

• Figurative: Art that depicts recognizable figures and objects.
• Realistic: Representing things in a way that is accurate to real life.
• Naturalistic: Closely imitating nature or real life.

Antonyms

• Abstract: Art that does not attempt to represent external reality.
• Non-representational: Not representing or depicting a recognizable subject.
• Non-objective: Art that does not represent or depict any object from the natural world.

Adjective

1. (used especially of art) depicting objects, figures,or scenes as seen
   • representational art
   • representational images