Before diving into the nuances of creative realism, it's essential to first understand the foundations of realism painting. Originating in the mid-19th century, realism aimed to represent subjects with an objective accuracy, free from idealization. Artists like Gustave Courbet and Édouard Manet pioneered the movement by depicting ordinary scenes and people with a focus on truthfulness rather than romanticism. The best realism paintings offer viewers an honest portrayal of the world, yet leave enough room for personal interpretation and connection.