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 atmosphere through loose brushwork and vibrant colors. This movement sought to convey the artist's immediate perception of a scene, often emphasizing everyday life and landscapes, making it a significant precursor to Modernism. Impressionists broke away from traditional techniques and formal compositions, opting instead for spontaneity and personal expression.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The term 'Impressionism' originated from Claude Monet's painting 'Impression, Sunrise,' which was criticized for its unfinished appearance.
2. Impressionists often painted en plein air, working outdoors to directly observe their subjects and capture the changing qualities of light.
3. This movement challenged academic conventions by rejecting traditional subject matter and techniques, paving the way for Modernist movements.
4. The first Impressionist exhibition took place in 1874, showcasing works by artists who were previously rejected by the Paris Salon.
5. Impressionism emphasized the artist's perception and emotional response rather than realistic detail, leading to a more subjective experience of art.

Review Questions

• How did Impressionism change the approach to art compared to earlier artistic movements?
  • Impressionism marked a significant shift from earlier artistic movements by prioritizing personal perception and the effects of light over strict realism and formal composition. Unlike academic art that focused on historical or mythological themes with meticulous detail, Impressionists painted everyday scenes using loose brushwork and vibrant colors. This new approach encouraged spontaneity and experimentation, influencing future movements like Modernism.
• In what ways did artists like Claude Monet embody the principles of Impressionism in their work?
  • Claude Monet embodied the principles of Impressionism through his innovative use of color and light to portray fleeting moments in nature. His technique involved applying quick, short brushstrokes that captured the essence of a scene rather than its precise details. Monet's series paintings, like those of water lilies or haystacks at different times of day, exemplified the Impressionist goal of depicting atmospheric changes, showcasing his deep engagement with the natural world.
• Evaluate the long-term impact of Impressionism on modern art movements that followed, including Post-Impressionism and Abstract Expressionism.
  • Impressionism had a profound impact on modern art movements by breaking away from traditional techniques and embracing new methods of expression. Post-Impressionists built upon these foundations, focusing on emotional depth and structure, which led to styles such as Fauvism and Expressionism. The emphasis on subjective experience in Impressionism paved the way for Abstract Expressionism by encouraging artists to explore individual perspectives and emotions without relying on representational forms. This legacy continues to influence contemporary art practices today.

Related terms

Claude Monet: A leading figure of Impressionism, known for his series of paintings that captured the changing effects of light and color in natural landscapes.

Plein Air: A French term meaning 'in the open air,' referring to the practice of painting outdoors to capture natural light and atmosphere directly.

Post-Impressionism: An art movement that developed from Impressionism, characterized by a focus on more formal structure and emotional expression, with artists like Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne.