Photo-realism...

For our research project I decided to do some research into the techniques and styles of photo-realism. I find it absolutely fascinating.
Its also an interesting topic to look into as some people don't see the point in it, they say if you want a picture as realistic as the actual person/image why not just take a photo....Which is a fair question, but being able to paint something as realistic as it is in reality is an amazing skill to have...much more impressive that a photograph.

I only really had an interest in photo realism last year when i was shown some paintings by Alyssa Monks. She does a lot of painting with water, whether its under water, in the water or shower paintings. the detail she manages to create is amazing. I find her work beautiful. This is a link to her website and some of the paintings i love.
http://alyssamonks.com/portshow.asp?portfolioid={AF28BAA9-57F2-4BD7-90EE-A183D253413D}