Impressionism

Definition

Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on capturing the effects of light and color through loose brushwork and an emphasis on everyday subjects. Artists sought to convey a momentary impression of a scene rather than a detailed, realistic depiction, often painting en plein air to capture the changing qualities of natural light.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Impressionism originated in France during the 1860s and was initially met with resistance from traditional art institutions and critics.
2. Notable Impressionist artists include Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, each contributing unique perspectives to the movement.
3. The name 'Impressionism' comes from Monet's painting 'Impression, Sunrise,' which was displayed in an exhibition in 1874 that aimed to break away from conventional styles.
4. Impressionists often painted scenes of modern life, focusing on leisure activities, urban landscapes, and natural settings that reflected contemporary society.
5. The movement laid the groundwork for various modern art movements that followed, influencing how artists approached color, composition, and subject matter.

Review Questions

• How did Impressionist artists change traditional approaches to painting during their time?
  • Impressionist artists revolutionized traditional painting by emphasizing light and color over detail and realism. They painted scenes from everyday life using loose brushwork and vibrant colors to capture fleeting moments. This marked a significant departure from earlier styles that focused on meticulous representation and historical or religious themes, allowing for a more personal and subjective expression in art.
• Evaluate the impact of the Impressionist movement on subsequent art movements and its legacy in modern art.
  • The Impressionist movement significantly influenced later art movements such as Post-Impressionism, Fauvism, and Abstract Expressionism. By breaking away from established norms of representation, Impressionists encouraged artists to explore new techniques and subjects, leading to greater experimentation in color and form. Their emphasis on personal perception and emotion paved the way for modern artistic expressions that prioritize individual interpretation and abstraction.
• Analyze how the social and cultural environment of 19th-century France contributed to the rise of Impressionism as an art movement.
  • The rise of Impressionism was deeply intertwined with the social and cultural changes occurring in 19th-century France. The Industrial Revolution brought about urbanization and new leisure activities that artists depicted in their works. Additionally, the establishment of independent exhibitions allowed Impressionists to showcase their art outside traditional venues. This period saw a growing appreciation for modern life and nature, enabling artists to explore innovative techniques while capturing the essence of contemporary society.

Related terms

Post-Impressionism: A reaction against Impressionism, Post-Impressionism involved artists like Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne who focused on more abstract forms and emotional expression, while still retaining some elements of Impressionism.

En plein air: A French term meaning 'in the open air', this practice refers to painting outdoors to capture the changing light and atmosphere, which was central to the techniques used by Impressionist artists.

Palette: The range of colors used by an artist in a particular work or body of work, which in Impressionism often included bright, vibrant hues to reflect light and movement.