The arts are revered. Baron Pierre de Coubertin, the father of the modern Olympic Games, made a point of including artists in the world-famous event and awarded medals honoring sports-related art, painting, sculpture, music, and literature from 1912 and 1948 accordingly.

While many of us hold art dear to our hearts–admiring and collecting art reproductions for sale showcasing abstract art, magical realism, and whimsical art at its best–we may still not fully understand what’s behind it. Magical realism is an ongoing movement that first gained popularity after World War I. Here is a crash course for those who want to learn what it is and what the movement is setting out to do.

What Is Magical Realism?

Realism refers to rendering works of art as true-to-life as possible. Magical realism involves creating art with mostly realistic elements and infusing it with magic, whimsy, or the surreal. Doing so is meant to encourage people to look at the world in new ways, or to view ordinary life through an extraordinary lens.

Magical realism in art can often be identified using these five characteristics:

1. A realistic setting, description, or premise. The foundation of the piece will center on something familiar that exists in the real world.
2. Magic in some form. There will be a twist or perspective that cannot be explained by natural law.
3. A war between worlds. Ideally, the viewer or reader will feel at odds and feel uncertain about what is the “true” world or what is true in the piece.
4. A blending of sorts. The real and the surreal will both be present and may intersect.
5. These works challenge norms. It may evoke history while also suggesting timelessness or no specific time at all. Concepts and identity come into question.

What Are Some Examples In Popular Culture?

Before purchasing art reproductions for sale, it can be helpful to pinpoint examples of magical realism in popular culture to achieve a greater understanding. Harry Potter, Amelie, and Like Water for Chocolate are some of the best–and most well-known–examples.

Can I Buy Prints Inspired By Magical Realism?

Yes, you can! To find prints and art reproductions for sale embracing or embodying magical realism, refer back to the five main characteristics and try to identify some works yourself by browsing a gallery online or in person. If you are still unsure, reach out to sellers and ask for help.

Magical realism blends truth with fantasy, and sometimes even causes us to confuse the two. Add a compelling and eye-catching piece to your collection and broaden your cultural horizons at the same time. The movement is especially prominent in Hispanic or Latino works. With Hispanic art accounting for just 2.8% of artworks displayed in museums, you can proudly display one in your home.