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When Did Impressionism Start?

When Did Impressionism Start? A Journey Through Art and Influence

Impressionism is an art style that sparks visions of shimmering light, vibrant colours, and scenes that breathe life. It first began as a bold rebellion against traditional artistic conventions. This movement not only transformed the art world but also left an indelible mark on culture and society. Let’s dive into the origins of Impressionism, its development, and its incredible influence.

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The Dawn of Impressionism

The Impressionist movement officially took root in the 1860s in France, but its seeds were planted much earlier. Artists of the mid-19th century grew dissatisfied with the rigid rules of the Académie des Beaux-Arts. (the French institution that dictated the artistic norms of the time.) The Académie valued realism, historical subjects, and precise details — often at the expense of creativity and emotion.

Impressionism’s defining moment arrived in 1874. when a group of artists organized their own independent exhibition. They rejected the Académie’s rules and instead showcased works brimming with light, movement, and colour. One painting, Claude Monet’s Impression, Sunrise, lent the movement its name after a critic mockingly called it “impressionist.”

The catalyst for Impressionism came from two key developments:

  • Technological Advances: The invention of portable paint tubes and synthetic pigments. These allowed artists to leave their studios and paint outdoors. (en plein air) Capturing natural light and spontaneous moments.
  • Shifting Perspectives: The rise of photography influenced Impressionism in many ways:
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Subject matter

  • Capturing everyday life: Impressionists were inspired by photography’s ability to capture ordinary people, and their everyday activities. 
  • Landscapes: Impressionists were inspired by photographs of historical monuments and outdoor scenes. 
  • Portraiture: Impressionists were inspired by photography’s ability to capture people. 

Milwaukee Art Museum. January 2023 08 The European Galleries: Impressionism and it’s influence.

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Technical aspects

  • Light and colour: Impressionists were inspired by photography’s scientific observation of light and colour. 
  • Movement: Impressionists were inspired by photography’s ability to capture movement. 
  • Asymmetrical space: Impressionists were inspired by photography’s representation of asymmetrical pictorial space. 

Artistic style

  • Impression of a moment: Impressionists used rough brushstrokes and an emphasis on light and colour, to capture the feeling of a moment in motion. 
  • Spontaneity: Impressionists were inspired by photography’s exploration of spontaneity. 
  • Visual ambiguity: Impressionists were inspired by photography’s exploration of visual ambiguity. 

Enjoy this entertaining video: Impressionism in 8 minutes

Hallmarks of Impressionism

Impressionist art is instantly recognizable by its unique style and techniques:

  • Light and Colour: Artists used vibrant, unblended colours to depict the effects of natural light.
  • Loose Brushstrokes: Unlike the precise techniques of academic painting. Impressionists employed quick, visible brushstrokes to suggest form and texture.
  • Everyday Subjects: Instead of grand historical or mythological themes. Impressionists focused on contemporary life, landscapes, and ordinary people.
  • Movement and Atmosphere: Their works often captured fleeting moments. Like the shimmering reflections on water or the rustling of leaves in the wind.

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When Did Impressionism Start? Continued…

The Pioneers of Impressionism

Several visionary artists played pivotal roles in the development and success of Impressionism. Here are some of the most celebrated figures:

Claude Monet

Known as the father of Impressionism, Monet’s works embody the essence of the movement. His series paintings, such as Water Lilies and Haystacks, explored the changing effects of light and colour.

Claude Monet: Water Lillies. 1916-26 St Louis Art Museum.

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Édouard Manet

A bridge between Realism and Impressionism, Manet’s ground breaking works, like Luncheon on the Grass. Challenged societal norms and paved the way for future experimentation.

Edouard Manet: Luncheon on the grass

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Pierre-Auguste Renoir

Renoir celebrated the beauty of human interaction and nature. His vibrant scenes, such as Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette, exude warmth and joy.

Dance at_le_Moulin_de_la_Galette

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Edgar Degas

Degas focused on movement and the human form. Particularly in his depictions of ballet dancers and everyday scenes. Blending Impressionist techniques with a unique sense of structure.

Edgar Degas: waiting

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Camille Pissarro

Often called the “dean of Impressionism” . Pissarro’s rural and urban landscapes demonstrated a masterful use of light and atmosphere.

Camille Pissarro: Boulevard Montmartre Spring

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Berthe Morisot

A trailblazing female artist. Morisot captured the intimate moments of domestic life with a fresh, delicate touch.

Berthe Morisot: Jour Dete 1879

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Cultural Context and Reception

When Impressionism first emerged, it was met with scorn and ridicule. Critics and audiences were accustomed to the polished works of academic art. They dismissed these paintings as unfinished sketches. But as the movement gained momentum, public opinion began to shift. Impressionism aligned perfectly with the societal changes of the late 19th century:

  • Urbanization: As cities expanded. Impressionists depicted the bustling energy of modern life. Using everything from Parisian cafes to busy boulevards.
  • Industrialization: The rise of industry influenced how people viewed time, light, and leisure. These themes are often reflected in Impressionist works.
  • Philosophy: The movement echoed contemporary philosophical ideas. Such as embracing subjectivity and fleeting experiences.

The Global Influence of Impressionism

Impressionism’s impact transcended France and influenced art movements around the world. Here are a few ways it shaped culture:

Influence on Modern Art

  • Impressionism inspired Post-Impressionists. Artists like Vincent van Gogh and Paul Cézanne, expanded its principles in bold new directions.
  • It laid the groundwork for 20th-century movements like Fauvism, Expressionism, and Abstract art.

Van Gogh: Starry Night

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Popular Culture

  • The vibrant, emotive style of Impressionism continues to captivate audiences. From museum exhibitions to merchandise, it remains a touchstone of beauty and creativity.
  • Impressionist techniques have influenced cinema, photography, and even digital art. Where capturing light and mood remains central.

Broader Societal Impact

  • The movement championed artistic freedom and individuality, inspiring creatives in fields beyond painting.
  • Impressionism’s emphasis on the everyday elevated ordinary moments. Encouraging people to find beauty in the world around them.

The Case for Impressionism. Enjoy the video!

When did Impressionism Start? And it’s Enduring Legacy.

Though the Impressionist movement officially gave way to new artistic styles in the late 19th century, its influence persists. Impressionist masterpieces are celebrated in prestigious museums and private collections worldwide. The movement’s emphasis on innovation, emotion, and connection resonates with artists and art lovers to this day.

Conclusion

When did impressionism start? Well, Impressionism began in the 19th century as a daring departure from tradition. But it blossomed into one of the most influential art movements in history. Born in the luminous light of 19th-century France, it redefined how we perceive art, life, and beauty. With its emphasis on spontaneity, colour, and emotion. Impressionism continues to inspire and enchant.

Whether you’re marvelling at Monet’s serene water lilies. Or walking through a sunlit park, you can feel the echoes of Impressionism’s legacy. It reminds us that life’s most beautiful moments often come in fleeting impressions. Ones that we should cherish and celebrate ever.

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