Art discussion

Idealism refers to behavior or thought that is based on a conception of things as they should be or as one would like them to be. Realism is sometimes described as "warts and all," existing in fact rather than something imagined. What are some contemporary examples that utilize idealism? Are the purposes the same as those of the Classical Greeks? Why do you think Romans developed realistic portraiture? What are some contemporary examples that utilize realism? Which do you prefer, realism or idealism?