Social realism is defined by choice of subject matter rather than style. Powerful images began to be used by painters in the mid-nineteenth century to affect the viewers' feelings and bring social problems to public attention. Some of the work of Thomas Faed, Richard Redgrave, Frank Holl, Luke Fildes and the early Pre-Raphaelites can be identified with social realism.
Artworks
The StonebreakerJohn Brett (1831–1902)
Walker Art Gallery
The Derby DayWilliam Powell Frith (1819–1909)
Manchester Art Gallery
The Poor TeacherRichard Redgrave (1804–1888)
Shipley Art Gallery
Seeking SituationsRalph Hedley (1848–1913)
Shipley Art Gallery
Hard TimesHubert von Herkomer (1849–1914)
Manchester Art Gallery
Life at the SeasideWilliam Powell Frith (1819–1909)