Post-Impressionism

Definition

Post-Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, following Impressionism, characterized by a focus on abstract forms, bold colors, and the expression of emotions. This movement sought to move beyond the fleeting impressions of light and color captured by Impressionists, emphasizing the artist's subjective experience and personal interpretation of reality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Post-Impressionism includes key figures like Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, and Georges Seurat, each contributing distinct styles to the movement.
2. This movement is marked by its rejection of the naturalistic representation of subjects and instead embraces abstraction and stylization.
3. Post-Impressionist artists used color in innovative ways, often applying bold and non-representational colors to convey emotions and mood.
4. The influence of Post-Impressionism can be seen in later movements such as Fauvism and Expressionism, which also prioritize individual perception over realism.
5. The 1913 Armory Show in New York was crucial for introducing Post-Impressionist works to American audiences, sparking debate about modern art in the United States.

Review Questions

• How did Post-Impressionism differ from Impressionism in terms of artistic focus and technique?
  • Post-Impressionism differed from Impressionism primarily in its approach to representation and emotional expression. While Impressionists aimed to capture the effects of light and atmosphere with a focus on immediate visual experience, Post-Impressionists sought to convey deeper emotional content and abstract forms. Techniques like bold brush strokes, vivid color palettes, and innovative compositions characterized this shift toward individual expression, paving the way for more modern art movements.
• Discuss how key artists associated with Post-Impressionism contributed to shaping the movement's overall direction and legacy.
  • Key artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, and Georges Seurat played vital roles in shaping Post-Impressionism. Van Gogh's emotive use of color and expressive brushwork influenced how feelings could be portrayed visually. Cézanne's focus on geometric shapes laid groundwork for abstract art. Seurat introduced Pointillism, showcasing meticulous technique that further explored color theory. Their collective impact not only defined Post-Impressionism but also influenced subsequent movements like Fauvism and Expressionism.
• Evaluate the significance of the 1913 Armory Show in promoting Post-Impressionism in America and its effects on American artists' approaches to modern art.
  • The 1913 Armory Show was a pivotal moment for modern art in America, featuring a wide range of works including significant pieces from Post-Impressionist artists. By presenting these artworks to a broader audience, the show challenged traditional notions of art and sparked controversy over modernist styles. This exposure encouraged American artists to explore new techniques and subject matter beyond realism, fostering an environment ripe for innovation. Consequently, it helped lay the groundwork for the development of American modern art movements in the years to follow.

Related terms

Impressionism: An art movement originating in France during the late 19th century, known for its emphasis on capturing light and its changing qualities, often through loose brushwork and vibrant colors.

Pointillism: A painting technique developed by Georges Seurat as part of Post-Impressionism, using tiny dots of color that blend together when viewed from a distance to create a cohesive image.

Symbolism: An artistic movement that emerged in the late 19th century that sought to express the emotional experience through symbolic imagery and themes, often overlapping with Post-Impressionist ideas.