Impressionist Identity: A Quip's Influence

This lecture delves into the genesis and development of the Impressionist movement, starting with the 1874 exhibition where the term 'Impressionist' was first used mockingly by the journalist Louis Leroy. It explores how the artists embraced and redefined this label, focusing on capturing sensations rather than precise landscapes. The lecture also discusses the reception of Impressionism, emphasizing its emotional and optical aspects, contrasting with the contemporaneous rise of photography. Additionally, it sheds light on the social critique and caricature elements often overlooked in Impressionist art. The presentation concludes by examining the modernity and postmodernity of Impressionism, highlighting the movement's gradual departure from traditional norms and its influence on subsequent artistic practices.