Impressionism

Impressionism emerged in late 19th-century France as a radical departure from academic painting, prioritizing the capture of light and color over meticulous detail. Key figures like Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas pioneered techniques such as loose brushwork and plein air painting, focusing on everyday life and modern experiences. Initially criticized, Impressionism significantly influenced subsequent art movements and remains celebrated today, impacting not only the art world but also popular culture through its emphasis on natural beauty and spontaneity.