Impressionism

Definition

Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on capturing light and its changing qualities, as well as an emphasis on everyday subjects. This movement marked a shift away from traditional techniques and subjects in favor of more spontaneous, loose brushwork and vibrant colors, often painted en plein air (outdoors). Impressionism significantly influenced modern art by challenging established conventions and encouraging artists to explore personal expression and perception.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Impressionism began in France in the 1860s, with key figures such as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir leading the movement.
2. The name 'Impressionism' is derived from Monet's painting 'Impression, Sunrise,' which captured the fleeting effects of light at dawn.
3. Impressionist artists often painted scenes of everyday life, including landscapes, cityscapes, and leisure activities, reflecting the changing society of the time.
4. The movement faced significant criticism from traditional art institutions and audiences who preferred more realistic and detailed representations in art.
5. Impressionism laid the groundwork for many modern art movements that followed, including Fauvism and Abstract Expressionism, emphasizing personal expression and subjective experience.

Review Questions

• How did Impressionist artists change the way light and color were depicted in their works compared to previous artistic styles?
  • Impressionist artists broke away from traditional techniques that focused on realism and detail. They emphasized capturing the effects of light and color through loose brushwork and vibrant palettes. By painting en plein air, they were able to depict natural light as it changed throughout the day, creating a sense of immediacy and movement in their work. This approach allowed for a more subjective representation of scenes, marking a significant departure from earlier artistic conventions.
• Discuss how the Salon des Refusés impacted the perception of Impressionist artists and their work during the late 19th century.
  • The Salon des Refusés played a crucial role in bringing attention to Impressionist artists who were rejected from the official Salon exhibitions. This alternative exhibition showcased their innovative styles and ideas, allowing them to gain visibility and support from new audiences. The reception at the Salon des Refusés highlighted the growing divide between traditional art forms and emerging modern art movements. As a result, it helped establish Impressionism as a legitimate artistic style and encouraged other artists to explore similar themes of light and perception.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of Impressionism on modern art movements that followed, considering its influence on how artists approached subject matter and technique.
  • Impressionism had profound long-term effects on modern art movements by fundamentally shifting how artists approached both subject matter and technique. Its emphasis on personal expression, experimentation with color, and focus on everyday scenes paved the way for subsequent movements like Post-Impressionism and Fauvism. Artists began to prioritize emotional resonance over strict realism, leading to diverse explorations in abstraction. The Impressionist challenge to conventional art norms encouraged future generations to question established boundaries, fostering an environment ripe for innovation in visual art.

Related terms

Post-Impressionism: An art movement that developed as a reaction against Impressionism, characterized by a more formal approach to composition and color, with artists like Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne seeking to convey deeper emotional meaning.

En plein air: A French term meaning 'in the open air', referring to the practice of painting outdoors to capture natural light and atmosphere, which was a hallmark of the Impressionist movement.

Salon des Refusés: An exhibition held in Paris in 1863 to showcase works rejected by the official Salon, where many Impressionist artists displayed their work, gaining exposure and recognition for their innovative styles.