In general, I do find Impressionistic style to be aesthetically pleasing. I appreciate that Impressionism is focused on largely pleasant moments, rather than traditional subject matter, i.e. history, religion, and classical antiquities. The purpose of Impressionism is to depict a fleeting moment in time or to present an impression, hence the name, Impressionism. I find this goal to be both grand and beautiful. My favorite piece of work that possesses an Impressionistic style is, Impression Sunrise created in 1873, by Claude Monet. This piece truly embodies this style of art. After all, this was the work that coined the name Impressionism. I prefer the objective of the Impressionistic style to all other works because I think it is a beautiful thing to conjure. It is remarkable that these painters set out to create an actual point in time and depict the moment’s reality. I find Impressionism to be a more in depth art form than say, still work. Take for example, Still Life With Hen Onion and Pot created in the 1750s by Giacomo Ceruti. Although, this piece contains a great amount of detail it lacks significance. Granted, still work was composed to possess symbolic features, the subject matter is basic and ordinary. I do not find it to be as interesting as the Impressionistic style because it lacks a certain depth. For that reason, I find Impressionism to be a fascinating art form and appreciate that it attempts to present the viewer with an impression.
You picked a wonderful example of Impressionist painting, esp. with Monet. Impression Sunrise certainly allows and requires the viewer to render the scene visually. You brought up a good point about Impressionism and peaceful moments which is especially representative of the example you chose.
I took an opposite view why I don’t favor this style over others. I found your contrasting comparison useful, but I find that the details often found in Romantic or Baroque works do have depth. It’s just easier to depict and requires less interpretation. I guess that’s part of the reason it is up to the individual viewer to decide what has artistic meaning to themselves. What I like for whatever reason has nothing to do with anyone else. Works well that way and allows for all kinds of useful perspective.
Thanks for posting this.
My favorite line in the entire post better captured exactly what I tried to convey about impressionism. “It is remarkable that these painters set out to create an actual point in time and depict the moment’s reality.” The pureness of the moment that is presented reflects the nature of memory regarding moments in time. Excluding those with photographic memories of course. Short and sweet analysis that utilized comparison to a still life from the 1750s. I enjoyed it.
These two paintings seem to be very familiar to me… but I can’t quite remember… Anyways, I really do like those paintings, I enjoy the still paintings, because they are supposed to depict more than people may think. Like you said, it depicts moment of time, and without any background knowledge, I don’t think people will really know the reason behind such impressionism. I would have to say I like the still painting of the chicken more than the sunrise, because it appeals to my eyes more. It may be the colors used and the way the lighting was used. It looks a lot more simpler than the sunrise, therefor that is why i might like it. Anyways… you have completed what was required of the blog assignment, and it looks great! Keep up the good work!