Impressionism

Definition

Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in the late 19th century, characterized by a focus on capturing light and color in a way that conveys the artist's immediate perception of a scene. This style often features loose brushwork and an emphasis on the effects of light, often painted en plein air (outdoors) to capture a moment in time. Impressionism marked a departure from the detailed realism of earlier art movements and is closely linked to the cultural shifts of the time, including changes in society and technology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Impressionism was officially born in 1874 during an exhibition in Paris where artists like Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir showcased their work.
2. The term 'Impressionism' was derived from Monet's painting 'Impression, Sunrise,' which was initially critiqued in a derogatory manner.
3. Impressionists often painted landscapes, everyday scenes, and moments of leisure, reflecting the social changes of the late 19th century.
4. This movement faced strong criticism from traditional art institutions and was initially rejected by the Academy of Fine Arts, leading to alternative exhibition venues.
5. Impressionism laid the groundwork for modern art movements by breaking away from classical techniques and embracing new ways of seeing and representing reality.

Review Questions

• How did Impressionism differ from Realism in its approach to art?
  • Impressionism differed from Realism primarily in its focus on capturing fleeting moments and the effects of light rather than depicting scenes with meticulous detail. While Realism aimed to portray everyday life accurately and without idealization, Impressionists sought to convey their personal impressions of scenes through loose brushwork and vibrant colors. This shift emphasized the artist's perception over objective reality, marking a significant change in the art world.
• Discuss how Impressionism reflects the social and technological changes of the late 19th century.
  • Impressionism reflects the social changes of the late 19th century, such as urbanization and leisure activities brought about by industrialization. Artists began to capture scenes of modern life, focusing on cafes, parks, and streets filled with people enjoying their time. The advent of new paint technologies also allowed artists to work outdoors easily, which was essential for their emphasis on natural light and color. These elements combined to create an art form that resonated with contemporary experiences.
• Evaluate the impact of Impressionism on modern art movements that followed it.
  • The impact of Impressionism on modern art movements was profound, as it challenged traditional artistic conventions and paved the way for various styles such as Post-Impressionism, Cubism, and Fauvism. By prioritizing individual perception and emotional expression over realistic representation, Impressionists opened doors for artists to explore abstraction and new ways of interpreting reality. This legacy fundamentally changed how art was created and understood, influencing countless artists and movements well into the 20th century.

Related terms

Post-Impressionism:

A reaction against Impressionism that sought to add more structure and form, focusing on abstract forms and emotional content through color and brushwork.

Realism:

An artistic movement that aimed to depict everyday life and ordinary people without embellishment, serving as a precursor to Impressionism.

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