Impressionism is often seen as the starting point of modern art. Emerging in the late 19th century, artists like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas focused on capturing fleeting moments of light and color. Instead of the strict realism that had dominated the art world for centuries, impressionists aimed to convey the feeling or “impression” of a scene.
Key Characteristics of Impressionism:
- Use of light and color to depict scenes.
- Visible brushstrokes.
- Emphasis on capturing the moment rather than detailed realism.
- Focus on everyday life and landscapes.
Impressionism was a radical departure from traditional art at the time, laying the groundwork for further experimentation in modern art.