AHI 258LEC – Impressionism & Post Impressionism
Impressionism and Post-Impressionism constitute of two of the most influential art trends in history. They developed in response to the art world’s strict and academic traditions, confronting the status quo and extending the frontiers of design, approach, and subject matter. In this piece, we will look at the major aspects of the two movements, as well as their distinctions and similarities, as well as some of the most well-known artists affiliated with them.
Overview of Impressionism and Post Impressionism
What exactly is Impressionism?
Impressionism began in the late nineteenth century in France as a reaction to the academic approach of painting that was prevalent at the time. Impressionist artists used free brushwork and a vivid palette to create a feeling of movement and mood, attempting to depict the transitory impact of light and color. They painted landscapes, seascapes, and ordinary life subjects frequently en plein air.
What exactly is Post-Impressionism?
Impressionism was followed by Post Impressionism, which emerged in the latter part of the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Post-Impressionist painters were interested in experimentation on form, color, and composition to explore the expressive potential of art. They rejected Impressionism’s naturalistic approach, instead attempting to produce a more subjective and symbolic portrayal of reality. Post Impressionism included a wide spectrum of genres such as Pointillism, Fauvism, and Expression.
Characteristics of Impressionism and Post Impressionism
Impressionism
focuses on the sensations of light and color • Use of fragmented brushwork and vibrant colors • preferences for outdoors painting, en plein air • Emphasis on capturing the fleeting moment • An interest in everyday scenes and landscapes
Impressionism focuses on the sensations of light and color • Use of fragmented brushwork and vibrant colors • preferences for outdoors painting, en plein air • Emphasis on capturing the fleeting moment • An interest in everyday scenes and landscapes
Key Artists of Impressionism and Post Impressionism
Impressionism
Post Impressionism
Differences and Similarities between Impressionism and Post Impressionism
While Impressionism and Post Impressionism are distinct movements, they share some similarities and differences.
Differences
Similarities
Conclusion
Impressionism and Post-Impressionism were two revolutionary trends in art history, breaking previous traditions and opening up new avenues for creative expression. They represent two separate but complimentary approaches to art, each having their own specific features, methods, and views. Impressionism’s dedication to light, color, and capturing the fleeting moment was groundbreaking, laying the framework for modern art’s growth. In contrast, the emphasis on personal expression, experimentation, and abstraction in Post Impressionism prepared the way for the rise of Expressionism, Fauvism, and other avant-garde groups.
Impressionism and Post-Impressionism have had a lasting effect on the creative world, inspiring future generations of painters. They made enormous contributions to contemporary art, and their impact continue to inspire and excite art enthusiasts.