Impressionism

Impressionism, emerging in the late 19th century, is a pivotal art movement characterized by its innovative approach to capturing light and atmosphere. Artists such as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir sought to depict the transient effects of light and color, often painting en plein air to achieve a sense of immediacy and spontaneity. This movement marked a departure from the detailed realism of academic painting, favoring loose brushwork and a vibrant palette to convey the sensory experience of a scene. Common themes include landscapes, urban life, and leisure activities, reflecting the changing social dynamics of the period. Impressionism significantly influenced subsequent art movements, including Post-Impressionism and Modernism, by challenging traditional techniques and encouraging artistic experimentation.