Impressionism: For and Against

Introduction

In the late 19th century, a new art movement emerged that would change the course of art history: Impressionism. With its focus on capturing fleeting moments and the play of light and color, Impressionism broke away from the traditional academic style and sparked a heated debate in the art world. In this book, "Impressionism: For and Against," Jean Dominique Rey and Jean Eugène Bersier present a comprehensive exploration of this revolutionary movement, examining both its supporters and detractors.

The Birth of Impressionism

Impressionism emerged in the 1860s as a group of young artists, including Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas, began to challenge the prevailing artistic conventions. They rejected the idealized, historical, and mythological subjects favored by the Academy and instead turned to everyday scenes and landscapes, capturing the transient effects of light and atmosphere.

The Impressionist Technique

One of the defining characteristics of Impressionism is the use of short, quick brushstrokes and vibrant colors. Impressionist painters sought to capture the immediate visual impression of a scene, rather than creating a detailed, realistic representation. They often worked en plein air, painting outdoors to capture the changing light and weather conditions.

The Impressionist Exhibition of 1874

The turning point for Impressionism came in 1874 when a group of Impressionist artists organized an independent exhibition in Paris. The exhibition was met with mixed reactions, with some critics praising the artists' originality and others ridiculing their unconventional style. The term "Impressionism" was coined by the art critic Louis Leroy, who used it in a derogatory sense to describe Monet's painting "Impression, Sunrise."

The Supporters of Impressionism

Despite the initial criticism, Impressionism gained a number of influential supporters. The art dealer Paul Durand-Ruel became a champion of the movement, organizing exhibitions and promoting the artists' work. The writer Émile Zola praised the Impressionists for their honesty and realism, while the artist Édouard Manet admired their technical skill and innovative approach.

The Detractors of Impressionism

Impressionism also faced strong opposition from critics and established artists. The academic painter Jean-Léon Gérôme dismissed Impressionism as "the negation of art," while the critic Jules Claretie accused the Impressionists of being "barbarians." Some critics argued that Impressionism was too vulgar and lacked the technical proficiency of traditional art.

The Legacy of Impressionism

Despite the initial controversy, Impressionism went on to become one of the most influential art movements in history. It paved the way for modernism and inspired countless artists to experiment with new techniques and styles. Today, Impressionist paintings are celebrated for their beauty, originality, and ability to capture the fleeting moments of life.

Conclusion

"Impressionism: For and Against" offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of the Impressionist movement, providing readers with a deep understanding of its origins, techniques, supporters, and detractors. Through a wealth of illustrations and insightful analysis, this book invites readers to appreciate the beauty and significance of Impressionist art and to reflect on its lasting impact on the art world.