Glossary

6.2 Major Impressionist artists and their works

6 min read•august 13, 2024

Impressionism revolutionized art in the late 1800s. Major artists like Monet, Renoir, and Degas broke from tradition, using bold colors and quick brushstrokes to capture fleeting moments of light and life.

These painters focused on everyday scenes, from bustling city streets to serene landscapes. Their innovative techniques and subject choices paved the way for modern art movements, forever changing how we see and create art.

Impressionist Masters and Their Styles

Signature Techniques and Subject Matter

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  • known for series paintings of haystacks, water lilies, and Rouen Cathedral capturing the effects of on a subject over time
  • celebrated for vibrant use of color, feathery brushstrokes, and depictions of leisure activities and feminine beauty (, )
  • famous for paintings and sculptures of ballet dancers and innovative use of unusual visual angles and asymmetrical compositions
  • recognized for rural landscapes and cityscapes often depicting the everyday lives of peasants and laborers
  • known for serene landscapes capturing subtle changes in weather and light, particularly along the Seine and Thames rivers
  • celebrated for intimate domestic scenes and portraits often featuring women and children, painted with delicate brushwork and a soft color palette

Pioneering Approaches and Innovations

  • Monet's series paintings were groundbreaking in their focus on capturing the changing effects of light and atmosphere on a single subject over an extended period
  • Renoir's lively, colorful scenes of everyday life helped define the Impressionist style and showcased the movement's emphasis on and spontaneity
  • Degas's unconventional compositions, cropped figures, and use of artificial light in his theater scenes and portraits pushed the boundaries of traditional artistic representation
  • Pissarro's commitment to painting outdoors (en plein air) and his use of and pure colors exemplified the Impressionist approach to capturing the immediacy of perception
  • Sisley's luminous, atmospheric landscapes demonstrated the Impressionist interest in conveying the transient effects of light and weather on the natural world
  • Morisot's paintings offered a rare female perspective within the largely male-dominated Impressionist circle and often featured intimate, domestic settings that challenged traditional gender roles in art

Contributions of Impressionist Artists

Expanding the Range of Artistic Subjects

  • Monet's series paintings showcased the Impressionist fascination with the effects of light and atmosphere on a subject, demonstrating that even the most mundane objects could be transformed by changing conditions
  • Renoir's vibrant depictions of leisure activities and everyday life helped to democratize art by elevating common subjects and experiences to the status of high art
  • Degas's focus on modern subjects like ballet dancers, racehorses, and café-goers reflected the Impressionist interest in capturing the pulse of contemporary urban life and expanding the range of acceptable artistic subjects
  • Pissarro's paintings of rural landscapes and cityscapes drew attention to the lives and experiences of the working class, challenging the traditional hierarchy of artistic genres and subjects
  • Sisley's serene, atmospheric landscapes emphasized the Impressionist goal of capturing the ephemeral qualities of nature and the changing effects of light and weather on the environment
  • Morisot's intimate domestic scenes and portraits of women and children provided a valuable counterpoint to the male-dominated Impressionist circle and expanded the range of subjects deemed worthy of artistic representation

Pioneering New Techniques and Approaches

  • Monet's innovative use of broken brushstrokes, pure colors, and emphasis on capturing the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere helped to define the Impressionist style and paved the way for future artistic experimentation
  • Renoir's feathery brushstrokes, vibrant color palette, and emphasis on capturing the joy and beauty of everyday life exemplified the Impressionist celebration of modernity and spontaneity
  • Degas's experimentation with unusual visual angles, asymmetrical compositions, and the use of artificial light in his theater scenes and portraits pushed the boundaries of traditional artistic representation and influenced the development of modern art
  • Pissarro's commitment to painting outdoors (en plein air) and his use of optical mixing and pure colors helped to establish the Impressionist approach to capturing the immediacy of perception and the changing effects of light and atmosphere
  • Sisley's luminous, atmospheric landscapes showcased the Impressionist interest in conveying the transient effects of light and weather on the natural world and demonstrated the potential of painting outdoors to capture the essence of a fleeting moment
  • Morisot's delicate brushwork, soft color palette, and emphasis on intimate, domestic settings challenged traditional gender roles in art and expanded the range of acceptable subjects and techniques for female artists

Impressionist Works: Comparisons

Landscapes and the Effects of Light

  • While Monet and Sisley both painted landscapes, Monet's series paintings (Haystacks, Rouen Cathedral) focused on the changing effects of light and atmosphere on a single subject over time, while Sisley's works () often depicted the subtle variations in weather and light across different landscapes
  • Pissarro and Sisley both painted rural and urban landscapes, but Pissarro's works () often emphasized the everyday lives and experiences of the working class, while Sisley's paintings (The Bridge at Hampton Court) showcased the Impressionist interest in capturing the ephemeral qualities of nature and the effects of light and weather on the environment

Portraits and Domestic Scenes

  • Renoir and Morisot both painted intimate domestic scenes and portraits, but Renoir's works (Luncheon of the Boating Party) were characterized by his vibrant color palette and feathery brushstrokes, while Morisot's paintings () featured a softer, more delicate touch and often depicted women and children in intimate, everyday settings
  • Degas and Cassatt both painted portraits and domestic scenes, but Degas's works () often featured unusual visual angles and asymmetrical compositions, while Cassatt's paintings (The Child's Bath) emphasized the intimate bond between mother and child and the quiet moments of everyday life

Lasting Impact of Impressionism

Pioneering a New Approach to Art

  • Monet's (1872) gave the Impressionist movement its name and demonstrated the radical new approach to capturing the fleeting effects of light and color in nature, paving the way for future artistic experimentation and the development of modern art
  • Renoir's Luncheon of the Boating Party (1880-81) exemplified the Impressionist celebration of leisure activities and modern life, as well as the movement's innovative use of color and brushwork, influencing future generations of artists and helping to democratize art by elevating common subjects and experiences
  • Degas's sculpture Little Dancer Aged Fourteen (1880-81) broke new ground in its realistic depiction of a young ballet dancer and its use of mixed materials (bronze, fabric, hair), paving the way for future experimentation in sculpture and the incorporation of non-traditional materials in art

Influencing Future Artistic Movements

  • Pissarro's Boulevard Montmartre at Night (1897) showcased the Impressionist interest in capturing the modern city and the effects of artificial light, influencing future generations of urban landscape painters and paving the way for the development of modern art movements like and Expressionism
  • Sisley's The Bridge at Moret (1893) demonstrated the Impressionist mastery of capturing the changing effects of light and weather on a landscape, a technique that would be adopted by future generations of plein air painters and influence the development of and other modern art movements
  • Morisot's The Cradle (1872) was a powerful example of the Impressionist interest in intimate domestic scenes and the lives of women, challenging traditional gender roles and paving the way for future female artists and the feminist art movement of the 20th century

Key Terms to Review (27)

Alfred Sisley: Alfred Sisley was a prominent Impressionist painter known for his landscape paintings that capture the effects of light and atmosphere. He was born in 1839 in Paris to British parents and spent much of his life in France, where he became associated with other leading Impressionists like Monet and Renoir. Sisley’s work is celebrated for its delicate brushwork and vibrant colors, focusing on the beauty of nature and the changing seasons.
Berthe Morisot: Berthe Morisot was a prominent French painter and a key figure in the Impressionist movement, known for her delicate brushwork and ability to capture the subtleties of light and atmosphere. As one of the few female artists to gain recognition in a male-dominated art world, she not only contributed significantly to Impressionism but also challenged the societal norms regarding women's roles in art and society during the 19th century.
Boulevard Montmartre at Night: Boulevard Montmartre at Night is a famous painting by Camille Pissarro, created in 1897, that captures the vibrant nightlife and the dynamic atmosphere of Paris. This work is an exemplary representation of Impressionism, showcasing the play of light and color in urban settings, as well as the modern life that became a central theme for many Impressionist artists. The painting illustrates not only the aesthetic innovation of the time but also reflects the social changes occurring in Paris during the late 19th century.
Broken brushstrokes: Broken brushstrokes refer to the technique in painting where individual strokes of color are applied in a loose and fragmented manner, allowing the viewer's eye to blend them from a distance. This approach creates a sense of movement and light, characteristic of Impressionist artworks, which often emphasize the perception of a moment rather than precise detail. It contributes to the overall atmospheric effect that Impressionist artists aimed to achieve in their depictions of everyday life.
Camille Pissarro: Camille Pissarro was a Danish-French painter born in 1830, widely regarded as a key figure in the Impressionist movement and a mentor to many other artists. He played a significant role in shaping the direction of Impressionism, emphasizing the importance of capturing light and atmosphere in his works while also exploring the social themes of rural life and urbanization.
Claude Monet: Claude Monet was a French painter and a founding figure of Impressionism, an art movement that sought to capture the effects of light and color in everyday scenes. His work emphasized the beauty of nature and the transient qualities of light, often depicting landscapes, gardens, and water scenes with loose brushwork and vibrant palettes. Monet's artistic innovations profoundly influenced the development of modern art.
Color theory: Color theory is a set of principles used to understand how colors interact, combine, and affect human perception and emotion. It encompasses the color wheel, primary, secondary, and tertiary colors, and concepts like complementary colors and color harmony, all of which are vital in the artistic exploration of light and atmosphere.
Dance at the Moulin de la Galette: Dance at the Moulin de la Galette is a famous painting by Pierre-Auguste Renoir created in 1876, capturing a lively outdoor scene of people dancing and socializing at a popular Parisian dance hall. This work embodies the Impressionist movement through its vibrant use of light and color, reflecting the joy of leisure activities in late 19th-century France. The painting not only showcases Renoir's masterful technique but also serves as a commentary on the social atmosphere of the time, highlighting moments of everyday life and human connection.
Edgar Degas: Edgar Degas was a prominent French artist known for his contributions to Impressionism, particularly in painting and sculpture. His work often focused on the depiction of movement and the human form, especially ballet dancers and scenes of everyday life, showcasing a unique approach to light and color that captured fleeting moments.
Fauvism: Fauvism is an early 20th-century art movement characterized by the use of bold, vibrant colors and painterly qualities, with an emphasis on the artist's emotional response to their subject. The term comes from the French word 'fauves', meaning 'wild beasts', reflecting the radical approach to color and form that these artists embraced. Fauvism emerged as a reaction against the naturalistic representation seen in Impressionism and set the stage for various individual styles in Post-Impressionism.
First impressionist exhibition: The first Impressionist exhibition took place in Paris in 1874, showcasing the work of a group of artists who would later be known as the Impressionists. This groundbreaking event marked a significant departure from traditional art exhibitions, emphasizing individual expression and innovative techniques that defined the movement. The exhibition featured many prominent artists who would become key figures in the development of Impressionism, allowing them to present their work outside the constraints of academic standards.
Giverny: Giverny is a small village in Normandy, France, best known as the home of the renowned Impressionist painter Claude Monet from 1883 until his death in 1926. The village is particularly famous for Monet's garden and water lily pond, which inspired many of his most iconic works and played a crucial role in the development of the Impressionist movement.
Impression, Sunrise: 'Impression, Sunrise' is a painting by Claude Monet completed in 1872, which is considered one of the seminal works that gave the Impressionist movement its name. This artwork showcases the focus on capturing a moment in time, emphasizing the effects of light and color in a way that diverges from traditional realistic representation. Through its loose brushwork and vibrant palette, it highlights the transient beauty of nature and invites viewers to experience the scene rather than just observe it.
John Ruskin: John Ruskin was a prominent art critic, social thinker, and writer of the 19th century, known for his influence on art and architecture through his writings and advocacy for social reform. His ideas championed the importance of nature and craftsmanship in art, which resonated with key themes of the era, including a reaction against industrialization and an appreciation for medievalism in art and architecture.
Light and atmosphere: Light and atmosphere refer to the way light interacts with subjects in art to create mood, depth, and a sense of environment. In art, the manipulation of light can evoke emotions and set the tone of a piece, often influencing how viewers perceive the scene. This concept is crucial in both Romantic and Impressionist movements, where artists used light not just for realism but as a means to express feelings and impressions of their subjects.
Little Dancer Aged Fourteen: Little Dancer Aged Fourteen is a bronze sculpture created by Edgar Degas in 1880, representing a young ballet dancer. This work stands out as a significant piece in Impressionist art because it captures the essence of youth, movement, and the behind-the-scenes life of dancers, diverging from traditional representations that focused more on idealized beauty. The sculpture is unique not just for its subject but also for its innovative use of mixed media, as Degas originally displayed it with a real tutu and hair, emphasizing its connection to the world of ballet.
Louis Leroy: Louis Leroy was a French art critic known for coining the term 'Impressionism' in his 1874 review of an exhibition featuring works by artists such as Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. His critique highlighted the loose brushwork and emphasis on light in these artists' works, which represented a departure from traditional techniques, helping to shape the identity of the Impressionist movement.
Luncheon of the Boating Party: Luncheon of the Boating Party is an iconic painting by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, created in 1880-1881, depicting a lively outdoor gathering of friends enjoying a meal on a terrace. This artwork is significant as it embodies key characteristics of Impressionism, particularly the focus on social interaction and the celebration of leisure in modern life.
Modernity: Modernity refers to the cultural, social, and economic changes that emerged in the wake of the Enlightenment and Industrial Revolution, fundamentally reshaping society's values, practices, and artistic expressions. It is characterized by a shift towards reason, science, individualism, and secularism, reflecting the new realities of urbanization and technological advancement.
Paris: Paris is the capital city of France and a central hub for art, culture, and politics in the 19th century. During this time, it became the epicenter for the Impressionist movement, attracting numerous artists who sought to capture the essence of modern life through their innovative techniques and perspectives. The city's vibrant atmosphere and diverse urban scenes inspired major Impressionist works, making it a crucial element in the understanding of this artistic movement.
Pierre-Auguste Renoir: Pierre-Auguste Renoir was a prominent French painter known for being one of the leading figures of the Impressionist movement. His works are celebrated for their vibrant light, rich color palette, and joyful portrayal of everyday life, especially focusing on social interactions and the beauty of women, connecting deeply with the themes and influences of 19th-century art.
Plein air painting: Plein air painting is an artistic technique that involves painting outdoors, capturing the effects of natural light and atmosphere directly from the landscape. This approach allows artists to observe and depict the changing qualities of light and color in real-time, creating a sense of immediacy and spontaneity in their works.
Post-Impressionism: Post-Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in the late 19th century as a reaction against the naturalism of Impressionism, focusing on more symbolic content, emotional expression, and the use of vivid colors. It sought to move beyond the fleeting impressions of light and color emphasized by Impressionists, introducing a deeper exploration of form and structure.
Romanticism: Romanticism was an artistic, literary, and intellectual movement that originated in the late 18th century and flourished throughout the 19th century, emphasizing emotion, individualism, and the sublime aspects of nature. It emerged as a response to the rationalism of the Enlightenment and the constraints of Neoclassicism, influencing various art forms and expressing a deep connection to personal experience and imagination.
The Bridge at Moret: The Bridge at Moret is a significant Impressionist painting created by Alfred Sisley in 1888, depicting a charming landscape scene with a bridge over the Grand Morin River in the village of Moret-sur-Loing, France. This artwork exemplifies the key characteristics of Impressionism, such as the use of light and color to capture fleeting moments and an emphasis on natural beauty, which are central to the movement's focus on everyday life.
The cradle: In the context of 19th-century art, 'the cradle' refers to both a literal object, often seen in paintings depicting motherhood and childhood, and a metaphorical concept representing the nurturing aspect of femininity and domestic life. This term connects to major Impressionist works where the intimacy of family life is showcased, highlights the contributions of notable women artists who depicted themes around motherhood, and emphasizes the representation of women as caretakers and nurturers during this period.
Urbanization: Urbanization refers to the increasing population and expansion of cities, driven by the movement of people from rural areas to urban centers in search of better economic opportunities and living conditions. This phenomenon played a crucial role in shaping various aspects of society, culture, and art during the 19th century, influencing themes of modern life and the representation of urban landscapes.
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