The world of art is a fascinating realm, where the legacy of a movement can be reconsidered and reimagined through the lens of time. Impressionism, once derided as unfinished sketches, has now become a cornerstone of art history, with its vibrant legacy on full display in two major exhibitions.
The Birth of a Movement
When we think of Impressionism, we often envision the vibrant, sun-drenched landscapes of Monet and his contemporaries. But this movement's origins were far from glamorous. In 1874, a group of artists, including Monet, Pissarro, and Renoir, presented their work in the First Impressionist Exhibition in Paris. These artists, rejected by the official Paris Salon, were met with scorn and derision. French art critic Louis Leroy, in a scathing review, coined the term "Impressionism" as a criticism, highlighting the unfinished nature of these works.
However, the Impressionists' revolutionary approach to light and color set them apart. They were the first to take their easels outdoors, painting en plein air, thanks to the invention of tubed paint, which allowed for new, vibrant pigments. This technique had a dramatic impact on their art, changing the very essence of their painting style.
The Unlikely Champion
Enter Paul Durand-Ruel, a second-generation Parisian art dealer, who, despite the public's disdain, became the Impressionists' greatest advocate. Durand-Ruel, after encountering Monet and Pissarro's work in London, dedicated his life to promoting their art. He gambled everything on these artists, establishing lucrative international markets for their work and providing them with much-needed financial support.
Durand-Ruel's legacy is the focus of the exhibition "Discovering the Impressionists" at Geelong Gallery. This exhibition also highlights a second generation of Impressionists, whose work, while not as groundbreaking, shares the same sense of color and joy as their predecessors.
Impressionism's Global Impact
The exhibition "Monet to Matisse" at the Art Gallery of South Australia explores Impressionism's influence beyond France. Many American artists, studying abroad, brought Impressionist techniques back home, adapting them to urban environments. This cultural exchange later reversed as European artists fled to the US, introducing American audiences to the European avant-garde. This influence gave rise to the Abstract Expressionist movement, shifting the art world's epicenter from Paris to New York.
The Legacy of Joy
Today, Impressionism is celebrated for its sense of dynamism and joy. The vibrant colors and loose brushwork, once considered radical, now bring a sense of peace and affection to viewers. As Tansy Curtin, AGSA curator, notes, the passage of time allows us to appreciate these works without the social critique of their time.
A Personal Reflection
What makes this movement particularly fascinating is its ability to transcend time and cultural boundaries. From its humble beginnings as a derided style to its current status as a beloved and valuable art movement, Impressionism's legacy is a testament to the power of artistic expression. It's a reminder that sometimes, the most radical ideas take time to be fully appreciated and understood.
In my opinion, these exhibitions offer a unique opportunity to explore the depth and breadth of Impressionism's impact, providing a deeper understanding of this influential art movement and its enduring legacy.
