Description: Impressionism is a painting style characterized by visible small brush strokes that uniquely capture light and color. This artistic movement, which emerged in France in the late 19th century, focuses on representing the visual perception of the moment rather than a detailed and precise representation of reality. Impressionists sought to convey the atmosphere and emotion of a scene, using bright colors and quick application techniques that allowed for greater spontaneity. This approach broke with the academic conventions of the time, which prioritized precision and detail. Through experimentation with light and color, Impressionist artists created works that evoked sensations and experiences rather than simply representing objects. This style not only influenced painting but also left a mark on other artistic disciplines, such as literature and music, promoting a new way of seeing and feeling the world.
History: Impressionism emerged in France in the 1860s as a reaction against academicism and realism. Its name comes from Claude Monet’s work ‘Impression, Sunrise,’ which was exhibited in 1874 at an alternative show to the official one. Over the following decades, artists such as Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Camille Pissarro developed this style, characterized by capturing light and color in everyday scenes. Although initially criticized, Impressionism gained acceptance and became an influential movement that laid the groundwork for modern art.
Uses: Impressionism is primarily used in painting, but its influence extends to other art forms, such as photography and film, where capturing light and atmosphere in a similar way is sought. Additionally, Impressionism has inspired later movements in art, such as Post-Impressionism and Fauvism, which continued to explore the use of color and form in new ways.
Examples: Notable examples of Impressionism include ‘Luncheon of the Boating Party’ by Pierre-Auguste Renoir, which captures an outdoor social scene with bright light and vibrant colors, and ‘The Water Lilies’ series by Claude Monet, which depicts his garden in Giverny with a focus on light and reflection in the water.
