Impressionism was an artistic movement that emerged in France in the late 19th century. It was characterized by a focus on capturing fleeting moments and sensations in nature, and a rejection of traditional methods of representation and narrative.
The Impressionist painters sought to capture the experience of light and color as they saw it, rather than creating highly detailed and realistic images. They experimented with new techniques, such as applying paint in small, broken brushstrokes, using pure, bright colors, and painting en plein air (outdoors) to capture the changing light and atmosphere of the natural world.
The Impressionists also sought to depict the modern world and everyday life, including scenes of urban life, leisure activities, and the countryside. They rejected the traditional academic styles of painting, which emphasized grand historical or mythological themes and idealized forms, in favor of a more direct and personal approach to art.
The term “Impressionism” was coined by the art critic Louis Leroy in a scathing review of the 1874 Impressionist exhibition, in which he criticized the artists for their apparent lack of skill and technique, and described their paintings as mere “impressions.”
Despite early criticism, Impressionism quickly became one of the most influential and beloved movements in the history of art. Its focus on the sensory and experiential aspects of life, as well as its rejection of traditional academic methods, laid the foundation for many subsequent modernist movements.
Some of the most well-known Impressionist painters include Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Camille Pissarro, and Berthe Morisot. Their works are characterized by their vivid, atmospheric depictions of everyday life, and their innovative use of color and brushwork.
Today, Impressionism remains a beloved and influential movement in the art world. Its emphasis on capturing the fleeting sensations of life, as well as its rejection of traditional forms and narrative, continue to inspire artists and audiences alike.