Take a look at the events and turning points that have defined and shaped the evolution of Impressionism as an artistic movement.
Impressionism is one of the most influential and revolutionary movements in art history. Born in France at the end of the 19th century, it forever changed the way artists see and represent the world.
In this article, we will explore the seven key moments that defined and shaped the evolution of Impressionism as an artistic movement and its impressionist artists.
1. The First Impressionist Exhibition of 1874
The first crucial event in the history of Impressionism is undoubtedly the first collective exhibition of Impressionist artists, held in 1874 in the studio of photographer Nadar in Paris. This event marked the official beginning of the movement and featured artists such as Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Camille Pissarro.
The exhibition received mixed reviews, but it was a turning point for the artists involved.
The term “Impressionism” itself comes from a negative review by critic Louis Leroy, who mocked Monet’s painting “Impression, Sunrise” (Impression, soleil levant).
2. The Foundation of the Société Anonyme Coopérative des Artistes Peintres, Sculpteurs, Graveurs
In 1873, a group of artists dissatisfied with the rigid rules of the Académie des Beaux-Arts in Paris founded the Société Anonyme Coopérative des Artistes Peintres, Sculpteurs, Graveurs. This collective aimed to organize independent exhibitions and promote art outside of official channels.
The creation of this society was a fundamental step for Impressionism, as it allowed artists to exhibit their works without having to adhere to rigid academic conventions.
3. The Influence of Photography
The invention of photography in 1839 had a significant impact on Impressionism. Impressionist artists were influenced by photography’s ability to capture fleeting moments and represent reality in a new and innovative way.
The use of light and color in photographic shots inspired the Impressionists to experiment with similar techniques in their paintings.
4. The 1889 Exposition Universelle
The 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris was a significant event for Impressionism. This world’s fair attracted visitors from around the globe and offered Impressionist artists a platform to showcase their works to an international audience.
The Universal Exposition helped to spread Impressionism beyond France’s borders and solidify the reputation of Impressionist artists on a global level.
5. Acceptance of Impressionism by the Public and Critics
In the 1880s, Impressionism began to gain acceptance from both the public and critics. Impressionist exhibitions became increasingly popular, and the works of Impressionist artists started to be acquired by collectors and museums.
This change in attitude marked an important turning point for the movement, transitioning from being viewed as a rebellion against traditional art to being recognized as a significant artistic current.
6. The Influence of Impressionism on Other Artistic Movements
Impressionism had a lasting influence on many other artistic movements that followed. Movements like Post-Impressionism, Fauvism, and Expressionism were all influenced by the technical and stylistic innovations of the Impressionists.
Artists like Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, and Henri Matisse drew inspiration from Impressionism and further developed the ideas and techniques of the movement.
7. The Preservation and Celebration of Impressionism in Museums and Collections
Today, Impressionism is celebrated and preserved in numerous museums and art collections around the world. **Museums like the Musée d’Orsay in Paris and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York house some of the most important Impressionist works.**
These museums not only preserve the works of the Impressionists, but also continue to educate the public on the importance and impact of the movement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Impressionism has been defined by a series of key moments that helped shape the movement and ensure its lasting influence. From the first exhibition in 1874 to today’s celebrations in museums, Impressionism has left an indelible mark on art history.
These seven defining moments offer an overview of the challenges and successes of the Impressionist artists and highlight the importance of the movement within the broader context of art history.
For more information about Impressionism, visit the Musée d’Orsay website.