Art Movement - Impressionism

 He was a French painter and one of the founding figures of the Impressionist movement, a term that itself was derived from his 1872 painting Impression, Sunrise (Impression, Soleil Levant). Monet is best known for his focus on capturing the effects of light and atmosphere in natural settings, often painting the same scene at different times of day or in varying weather conditions. He used quick, visible brushstrokes and a bright color palette to portray his subjects with a sense of immediacy and movement, a radical departure from the detailed realism of earlier art styles.

Throughout his career, Monet created some of the most iconic and celebrated works in Western art history. His Water Lilies series, painted in the gardens of his home in Giverny, represents the pinnacle of his exploration of reflection, light, and abstraction. Other notable series include his paintings of haystacks, poplar trees, and the Rouen Cathedral, all demonstrating his deep interest in the changing qualities of light and perception. Monet's innovative techniques and dedication to painting en plein air (outdoors) helped redefine modern painting and left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire artists and audiences around the world.

 He was a prominent French artist and a leading figure in the Impressionist movement. Known for his warm, vibrant palette and focus on human beauty and social scenes, Renoir brought a sense of joy and sensuality to his work. Unlike some of his Impressionist peers who focused primarily on landscapes, Renoir often painted people—especially women and children—in lively, everyday settings such as cafes, parks, and gardens. His loose brushwork and rich, luminous colors captured the fleeting effects of light while also conveying a sense of softness and intimacy.

One of Renoir’s most famous works, Luncheon of the Boating Party (1881), exemplifies his ability to depict relaxed social interactions with charm and elegance. Over time, Renoir's style evolved; in his later years, he moved away from the loose, fluid strokes of early Impressionism toward a more structured and classical approach, focusing on the human form with greater solidity and definition. Despite struggling with rheumatoid arthritis later in life, he continued to paint with great passion. Renoir's dedication to portraying life’s pleasures and his emphasis on warmth and beauty have made him one of the most beloved painters of his time.

He was a French artist best known for his innovative depictions of movement, especially through his paintings, drawings, and sculptures of dancers. Though often associated with the Impressionist movement, Degas preferred to call himself a "realist" or "independent," as his approach differed from many of his contemporaries. While Impressionists typically painted outdoors (en plein air) and focused on natural light, Degas was more interested in artificial light, indoor settings, and the composition of figures in motion. His art often captured behind-the-scenes glimpses of modern urban life, particularly the private, unguarded moments of ballet dancers, laundresses, and women at their toilette.

Degas combined classical training with a modern sensibility, influenced by both the Old Masters and contemporary photography and Japanese prints. He was a master of line and often worked in pastels, which allowed him to layer vivid colors and create a sense of dynamic motion. One of his most iconic works, The Ballet Class (1874), shows his fascination with the discipline, grace, and fatigue of dancers in rehearsal. In later life, Degas also produced a number of expressive sculptures, including Little Dancer of Fourteen Years. His unique perspective, focus on the human body in motion, and experimental techniques made him a central and distinctive figure in 19th-century art.