19th Century Impressionist Paintings
Seantica Birks
Staryer University
Professor Rollins-Haynes
February 25, 2014

19th Century Impressionist Paintings Impressionism was inspired by Edouard Manet, who sought to distinguish traditional French art. The art was introduced and believed to help the French rebuild their culture, as well as give a sense of hope and renewal. Even though Manet was not an actual member of Impressionism, his exhibitions impacted French painting. What made the Impressionist different from the rest of the painters is that their paintings were considered “en plein air or in open air”, versus the normal studio paintings. The invention of metal tubes also was inspired during this time, which allowed painters to keep, store, and preserve their paint. Painters no longer mixed colors, they were now sold in the colors the painters needed. The colors were painted side by side in order for the viewer to visually put the work together. Impressionist loved to capture the first impression of the subject or the visuals of landscapes and still-lives. Three examples of Impressionist paintings:
1) Claude Monet, Impression: Sunrise. 1873
This picture depicts an early sunrise while exploring the harbor. The picture is a soothing, kind of romantic piece that could be enjoyed by anyone. The picture allows one to see exactly what is going on, which the sunrise is occurring at the time. Even though other images are painted within, the sunrise is the main subject. The colors are smoothed and blended well in order to enhance the main focus on the painting. It would be a great piece for any atmosphere or setting because it speaks volumes, with its minimal detail. The color used for the sun is impeccable and brilliant, but not overbearing. Just enough color to make the sunrise as beautiful in paint as it is in person. This artwork went a long way toward giving Impressionism its name. The artwork should be the first painting one sees when walking through the door. It is inviting and comforting; automatically sets the atmosphere.
2) Camille Pissarro, Red Roofs or The Orchard, Cotes Saint-Denis at Portoise. 1877
This artwork is very appealing to the eye, when one just looks at it. The first noticeable part of this painting is its colors. The colors work extremely well throughout the painting as it gives off a radiance that is cultivating. To me, the picture allows the viewer to estimate the time, setting, and season, that is warming but has a story behind it. It has an autumn feel, which allows the viewer to relate to this particular piece. Also, the house that is painted within the artwork promotes questions of who, wheat, when, where, and why. The setting is in a discreet location, where it is not to visual, but still appealing to the eye. The artwork is personal to the artist because this was his own home that he had to leave once Bismarck moved into the city. Just having this piece behind the receptionist desk, will allow all to know that we all have a story. Just because the picture is not clearly understood, there is always meaning behind everything.
3) The Quartet from Act III of Verdi’s Rigoletto
This painting has so many different levels to it, that a conversation could be endless when referring to this piece. Even though colors are not involved, besides black and white, it sticks out just the same. The stage drawing demonstrates how lighting might underscore the contrasting feelings of the duke. On one side the sneaky, concerned, interesting pair are attempting to hear what is going on, but why? Then the other side, the pair seem be engaging in a romantic situation. The duke seems to be seducing the woman with his words. Also, it puts one into the mindset of good versus evil or ying and yang. A setup is taking place, and action will occur sometime during this piece. This piece should be placed in the hallway, so as people walk by they are able to just enjoy the contrast of the