Impressionism originated in France in the 1860s–70s as a radical departure from academic painting. Impressionists painted outdoors (en plein air), capturing transient effects of light with loose, visible brushwork and pure colour rather than carefully blended tones. Key figures include Monet, Renoir, and Pissarro. The influence of Impressionism extends into contemporary painting, particularly in loose, light-filled landscape and figurative work.
See it in practice
Browse impressionism artworks on Herehood
Original works by local artists, available for display.