this is not to demean the talent of the artist, but, as an artist, I wonder….
Why so realistic when a photograph would do as well?
…and, yes. Probably within the very question, some can see that impasto is involved with my paintings.
But, Impressionism, as wonderful as it is, is lost to folks who spend more than two days on something (in my opinion) because “Impressionism” is just that. An impression of what is occurring at that moment in that light…(see Monet).
None the less, the statement of “starving artist” wears thin on me, now, having netted less than $600 over two years.
(is there a question, here?) Yes, and here it is:
To be more 'modern' does one strive for Realism work (photographically displayed) or more Impressionistic?

Bruupo-
well, thanks a lot ass hole. i asked for an opinion on the idea of traced paintings, not on my ability to to spot one. but shit, since you brought it up-
you have no idea what i do for a living, nor do i care to humor you. it's just a topic that is very widely discussed in the art world today, ESPECIALLY in art schools. why the hell would you pay a shit load of money to learn how to trace? just seems like a waste of money and time. but now that you mention it, these people are basically making paintings coloring-book style. if you're impressed by PAINT BY NUMBERS, then kudos to you. most galleries and magazines in SF will turn down works that appear to be traced because art collectors won't buy them. there are definite signs of tracing, when you know what to look for.

I don't about the others, but the one done by Bert Monroy is definitely not traced and his work is just awesome.

“…please share your thoughts on this!” My only thought is that you must be kidding.  Well, either that, or you have no idea how to distinguish paintings from coloring books.

i pose a question to you all- Are you still impressed by a painting after you find out the image was traced? no really. i work at an art university, and this is a MAJOR problem with current art. by looking at these images, i can tall you maybe one of them is NOT traced. any feedback would be cool to read, please share your thoughts on this!