The Anonymous Society of Painters
Texture. Color. Emotion. Light…
These are words I would use to describe the art of Impressionism and reasons why many, including this painter here, instantly fall in love with this art movement. As the name suggests, it is known for the artists who painted their "impression" of a fleeting moment or scene in time. It was more about capturing the essence, mood, or feeling rather than the exactness or reality. It was a quiet, optimistic protest against the rigid, dark traditional realism of centuries past. Its bright colors and bohemian landscapes of expressive faces, blooming nature, food and drink celebrate life and even now still bring a sense of joy and peace to viewers. But Impressionism is an all-encompassing art movement, a sentiment expressed through a variety of artists, art forms, and materials.
I recently enjoyed viewing this Van Gogh landscape up close at the Boston Museum of Fine
Arts!
A Society Against Tradition
In 1874 a group of creatives organized this shared sentiment through an exhibit which launched Impressionism officially. They called themselves "Anonymous Society of Painters, Sculptors, Printmakers, etc". Compared to modern art today their work would seem to express traditional ideals, but during their time their ideas of beauty and art were radical introducing an entirely new concept to the world from the beating heart of Paris, France.
Like any new advancement in any field, it sparked debate and criticism. Nevertheless, it is now regarded as an important turning point in culture that still influences present public thoughts and society.
sculpture by Degas
Beyond an art movement
Beyond an art movement, it represented a global change in human awareness and creativity everywhere. During the 1870-80s when Impressionsim was born, the telephone, telegraph, electric lights, cameras, and transportation also began and quickly changed daily life for many. Traditional ways of thought were being challenged in every field.
In the end, Impressionism was a hallmark of a brave new world and represents the undying desire within every human to create, go beyond, and explore new ways of living.
The boldness, optimism, and creativity of Impressionist artists in the face of a darkened world who did not accept them initially, should inspire us to create a meaningful life that truly fulfills us despite what people say, not out of selfishness but a desire to create, experience, and share beauty with others. Tradition can be a beautiful thing, but when it stands in the way of free thinking and expression it must evolve. Even though I might not love every art movement, I love that art empowers people to think critically and express their unique experiences and perspectives freely.
Did you learn anything from the impressionist mindset that you could apply to you life today?
More photos from my recent trip to the Impressionist exhibit at the Boston Museum of Fine Arts below…
