Origins of Impressionism
Impressionism emerged in France during the late 19th century, specifically in the 1860s and 1870s, as a reaction against the rigid academic art standards of the time. Artists sought to capture the transient effects of light and atmosphere in their works, breaking away from traditional studio-based painting that focused on historical or mythological subjects. The movement's name derives from Claude Monet's 1872 painting 'Impression, Sunrise,' which was ridiculed by critics during its first exhibition in 1874.
Key Characteristics and Artists
Central to Impressionism were techniques like loose brushwork, bright colors, and an emphasis on natural light, often achieved through plein air (outdoor) painting. Prominent figures included Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edgar Degas, Camille Pissarro, and Mary Cassatt. These artists formed the Société Anonyme Coopérative des Artistes Peintres, Sculpteurs, Graveurs, holding eight independent exhibitions between 1874 and 1886 to showcase their innovative style outside the official Salon.
A Landmark Exhibition and Example
The inaugural Impressionist exhibition in 1874 at Nadar's studio in Paris featured 165 works by 30 artists, including Monet's 'Impression, Sunrise' and Renoir's 'Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette.' This event marked a pivotal moment, as it defied the conservative French art establishment and introduced the public to scenes of modern life, such as urban landscapes and leisure activities, painted with visible brushstrokes to convey immediacy and movement.
Legacy and Influence
Impressionism profoundly influenced subsequent art movements, including Post-Impressionism and modern abstraction, by prioritizing subjective experience over precise detail. It democratized art by depicting ordinary subjects and paved the way for global recognition of French avant-garde. Today, Impressionist works are cornerstones of museum collections worldwide, demonstrating the movement's enduring value in capturing the essence of perception and change.