The thing about art is that life is in no danger of being meaningless.
You're right, super-realism is back in style.
So who are we going to blame for our disappointments and our failures?
I do know, for most of us, the very best of times are when you're in your own space sweating, trying to squeeze quality out of imperfect capabilities.
In painting you cover up your sins and everyone thinks you're naturally talented.
I always thought signing was an artist's honour and guarantee of authenticity.