Impressionism, that vibrant movement born in the late 19th century, did more than just change how artists painted; it revolutionized the very essence of art itself. By breaking away from traditional techniques and focusing on light, color, and everyday scenes, Impressionists like Monet and Renoir paved the way for modern art. Here, we explore three diverse examples of the profound impact of Impressionism on the landscape of contemporary art.
In the world of modern abstract art, color is king. Artists like Mark Rothko and Helen Frankenthaler owe a debt of gratitude to the Impressionists, who were among the first to explore color’s emotional resonance.
Rothko’s large, luminous canvases are a perfect example. He uses color blocks that seem to float on the canvas, creating a meditative experience. The Impressionists had previously demonstrated that color could evoke feelings without needing to depict a specific subject matter. Rothko took this idea further, minimizing form and emphasizing the emotional experience of color itself. Just as Monet’s water lilies shimmered with the play of light, Rothko’s colors vibrate with energy, inviting viewers into their depths.
The connection is clear: Impressionism opened the door for abstraction, allowing artists to explore color as the primary medium of expression.
When you stroll through urban landscapes today, it’s impossible to ignore the vibrant street art that adorns buildings and alleyways. Artists like Banksy and Shepard Fairey often depict social issues in their works, but the roots of their approach can be traced back to Impressionist techniques.
Consider how Edgar Degas captured the bustle of Parisian life with his unique angles and candid moments. His ability to freeze a fleeting scene in time resonates with modern street art, where the goal is to capture and comment on the dynamic nature of contemporary urban life. For instance, Banksy’s iconic pieces, such as “Girl with Balloon,” illustrate a moment of innocence amidst the chaos of the city, paralleling Degas’s ability to convey a narrative through a snapshot of life.
The Impressionists taught artists to observe and interpret their surroundings, setting the stage for the impactful storytelling found in today’s street art.
Imagine a serene retreat in the countryside, where artists gather to paint en plein air, capturing the beauty of nature as it unfolds before them. This practice is a direct descendant of the Impressionist movement, which championed painting outdoors to capture the fleeting effects of light.
Today, artists like plein air painters Thomas Kegler and Jennifer McChristian embrace this tradition not just for its aesthetics, but for the experience of being present in nature. They blend the Impressionist technique of quick brush strokes to convey movement and light with their own modern twists, using vibrant palettes and innovative materials.
These retreats have become popular, encouraging artists to connect with their surroundings while learning from the Impressionist legacy. By focusing on the essence of a moment rather than precise detail, they continue to honor the Impressionist ethos of capturing the world as it is—temporary and ever-changing.
Impressionism’s legacy is woven into the fabric of modern art in countless ways. From the emotional power of color in abstraction to the vibrant narratives of street art and the serene practice of plein air painting, the impact of this movement is undeniable. By embracing the fleeting beauty of life, contemporary artists continue to echo the spirit of Impressionism, reminding us to appreciate the world around us.