Impressionism
1870
Philosophy
In Impressionism, we move away from detailed, realistic representations, instead embracing a more fluid, immediate style that seeks to convey the impression of a moment. Our brushstrokes are bold and quick, our colors vibrant and often unconventional, reflecting the transient effects of light and atmosphere π ποΈ.
Our philosophy is grounded in the observation of the world around us, capturing its changing moods and the subtle interplay of light and shadow. We focus on scenes of daily life, the beauty of nature, and urban landscapes, portraying them with a freshness and spontaneity that breathe life into our canvases ποΈπ.
We see ourselves as pioneers, breaking away from the constraints of traditional art forms to explore new ways of seeing and representing the world. Through our art, we aim to evoke feelings and capture the essence of a moment, providing a sensory experience that resonates with the viewer's own perceptions and emotions πβ€οΈ.
What happened?
Impressionism emerged in a time of significant social and technological changes in the late 19th century ππ. The period was marked by rapid urbanization in Paris ποΈ, the growth of the bourgeoisie, and the aftermath of the Franco-Prussian War βοΈπ«π·. The invention of tube paint and the development of photography π·π¨ influenced artists to explore new techniques and perspectives.
The Industrial Revolution was in full swing, bringing about modernity and a new pace of life, which was reflected in the subjects of Impressionist art ππ. This era saw the rebuilding of Paris under Haussmann, creating boulevards and public spaces that became favorite subjects of the Impressionists π³π.
Culturally, there was a shift away from the traditional artistic establishments and a move towards independent exhibitions, as seen in the famous 1874 exhibition which was derided by critics but marked the birth of the Impressionist movement πΌοΈπ«.
Politically, the establishment of the Third Republic in 1870 brought about a more liberal atmosphere, allowing for greater expression and innovation in the arts π½π. These historical contexts provided a backdrop for Impressionists to break away from conventional art forms and capture the essence of the modern, ever-changing world around them ππ‘.
How was life?
Life during the Impressionist era was dynamic and evolving. In the cities, the pace of life quickened, and the landscape transformed with new boulevards and public spaces. The emerging middle class began to enjoy leisure activities such as visiting cafes, parks, and theaters, scenes that often became subjects of our paintings ππ.
In the countryside, the beauty of nature continued to inspire us, but it was not untouched by change. The rural landscapes, with their shifting light and seasons, provided a contrast to the bustling city life and were a favorite subject among Impressionist artists ποΈπ.
Our approach to capturing these scenes was new and often met with criticism. We focused on the sensation of a moment rather than its detailed portrayal, using light, color, and rapid brushstrokes to create a sense of movement and spontaneity. This approach mirrored the changing world around us β one where the old was making way for the new, and where the experience of the present moment became increasingly valuable ππ«.
In summary, Impressionism was born out of a time of great change, reflecting the evolving landscapes, lifestyles, and perspectives of a society in transition. Through our art, we sought to capture the essence of this dynamic era, marking a significant shift in how art was perceived and experienced.
