Impressionist More Art
Emerging in 19th-century France, Impressionist art embraced loose brushwork and plein-air painting to respond to the movement of daily life. Although the pioneers of the Impressionist movement — Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, Paul Cézanne, Berthe Morisot, Camille Pissarro, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir — are now household names, their work was a radical break with an art scene led and shaped by academic traditions for around two centuries. These academies had oversight of a curriculum that emphasized formal drawing, painting and sculpting techniques and historical themes.
The French Impressionists were influenced by a group of artists known as the Barbizon School, who painted what they witnessed in nature. The rejection of pieces by these artists and the later Impressionists from the salons culminated in a watershed 1874 exhibition in Paris that was staged outside of the juried systems. After a work of Monet’s was derided by a critic as an unfinished “impression,” the term was taken as a celebration of their shared interest in capturing fleeting moments as subject matter, whether the shifting weather on rural landscapes or the frenzy of an urban crowd. Rather than the exacting realism of the academic tradition, Impressionist paintings, sculptures, prints and drawings represented how an artist saw a world in motion.
Many Impressionist painters were inspired by the perspectives in imported Japanese prints alongside these shifts in European painting — Édouard Manet drew on ukiyo-e woodblock prints and depicted Japanese design in his Portrait of Émile Zola, for example. American artists such as Mary Cassatt and William Merritt Chase, who studied abroad, were impacted by the work of the French artists, and by the late 19th century American Impressionism had its own distinct aesthetics with painters responding to the rapid modernization of cities through quickly created works that were vivid with color and light.
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Artist Onelio Marrero finds inspiration in observing fellow artists at work. This vibrant oil painting features a window designer along the sidewalk of midtow...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Three bright oranges and a green lime in a glass bowl rest on a rustic wooden table. The finger-painting technique and the use of bold, expressive strokes enhance the natural vibrancy of the fruits. The poignant simplicity evokes a sense of warmth and vitality.
About the Artist
Artist Samuel Pretorius' paintings evoke a quiet nostalgia. Each brushstroke suggests a shape, a landscape, or a subject—letting the memory of the viewer fill in the details. He invariably works with photographs, creating representations of actual locations he documents, and enjoys making bold brush movements that capture the essence of his subject in the fewest marks possible. "My paintings are best described as 'suggestionistic.' I aim to create fleeting images that you long to see again, a place that you will never forget, or one you yearn to visit," says Samuel. Originally from South Africa, he comes from a family of artists who encouraged him early to paint and draw. In primary school, his work was included in a national exhibition at the Pretoria Art Museum. While growing up, his art education came from exhibiting at local art galleries, participating in open markets and plein air painting events, and joining monthly exhibitions. Recently becoming a US citizen, Samuel decided to dedicate a portion of his study to his home studio to fulfill his passion for painting. This well-lit area, often supervised by his Siamese cat, allows him to paint any time of the day. Outside the creative industry, Samuel enjoys exploring the world's beauty and creating code as a software developer.
Words that describe this painting: finger painting, oranges, bowl, fruit, table, chair, lime, glass, impressionism, still life, cuisine, acrylic painting, orange
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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Tree-studded hills and valleys in California glow under the summer sun. Dramatic shadows in deep blues and purples dot the golden grass, creating a striking c...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Watercolor
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A boat tied to a dock patiently awaits its passenger. Nearby, a stone bridge connects the lush greenery on both sides of the river. The tranquil water and its...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Artist Warren Keating exhibits a motion-filled painting of an aerial view of an orange umbrella in the rain. He draws inspiration from witnessing the scene f...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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A woman walks under a clear summer sky in Newport, Rhode Island. The path stretches into the distance and creates a sense of peaceful solitude. Shadows cast b...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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Artist George Peebles presents a glorious coastal line in the style of impressionism. "Personal space at the beach," says George. The cool blue and purple hue...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Fresh strawberries with a glass of sweet orange juice make a quaint breakfast scene. Textured strokes and raw application of paint exude freshness and spontan...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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With a contrasting cool-hued trunk and sun-kissed branches and leaves, an oak tree boasts a stylized image. Under the brilliant sky, the surrounding woodland ...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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A large flock of crows whirls above the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and the Pacific Coast Highway. The orange sun creates a warm backdrop for their silho...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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A barn quietly sits in the picturesque Pennsylvania countryside. The muted color palette evokes the serene tranquility inherent in the Amish homesteads of the...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Watercolor
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Artist Lisa Elley depicts a glade of autumnal aspens in a rustic woodland. Once a year, she takes her fall sojourn to the Eastern Sierra Nevada mountains to s...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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"I dedicate this vibrant still life to Claude Monet," says artist Jeff Fleming. With its explosion of colors and richness of textures, this impressionist pain...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
Artist Comments
I was on a rooftop parking garage looking for the last space to park, in a hurry for a meeting with friends, when I saw this sky. Yes, I was late getting together with my friends, and my wife was patient while I recorded all the colors and shapes. After I painted this she was happy with the painting, and so was I, for it worked out as a balanced canvas of real and abstract. My friends were ok too after I bought a round. Enjoy!
About the Artist
Benjamin Thomas has been painting since the late seventies, however for most of this time he was not exhibiting his work. About twelve years ago, Benjamin and his wife were at a gallery show for a friend and as they were leaving Ben’s wife, aka “The Muse,” told him to go back in. “Your work is as good as that--maybe even better,” she said. That night, Benjamin obeyed The Muse (lucky for us!). The impressionistic sweeps of sky and cloud in Benjamin’s paintings capture more than just an atmospheric quality, but also a heavenly interpretation of the landscape. There is a classical, mature style to the paintings, reminiscent of J.M.W. Turner. Benjamin is often inspired while bicycling, walking or motorcycling, taking in the scenery of Pittsburgh, PA. He takes photos of the scene and then works out the concept back in his studio. The large scale of the work matches the impression and mood that each scene conveys, and the light and shadow are carefully balanced to capture something mercurial and nostalgic. The work feels very measured and contemplated, but also full of passion, as if each piece is in pursuit of the joy of painting and the representation of natural beauty.
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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A traveler sits on the edge of a fountain, resting under the shade. Nearby, a lady crossing the street seems also to be seeking refuge from the sun. Shaded sp...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Gazing south down the California Coast toward Los Angeles, a dreamy coastal landscape depicts the Central California region. The stunning view encompasses Hal...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Artist Janet Dyer exhibits a view of Provence in the spring, when pear, almond, and cherry trees flourish in full bloom. "These are near a hilltop village in ...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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This oil painting features a quintessential village that hikers and pilgrims encounter while walking the Camino de Santiago. Travelers find timeless charm in ...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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This joyful winter scene captures the gentle warmth of the sunset. The purity of the snow contrasts with vibrant hues reflecting on the water. Lilac light sof...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Artist Shela Goodman presents a majestic scene with a golden glow reflecting on the lake's still water. The sun gently sets, crad...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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While visiting the United Kingdom, artist Onelio Marrero explored the Irish National Stud Farm, known for breeding thoroughbred horses. The farm boasts breath...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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The afternoon sun brings out the magical colors of fall. Yellows and oranges blend, fading gracefully among the trees. The river reflects its surroundings, he...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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Artist Onelio Marrero pictures a flock of ducks gliding by a serene stream. "I observed ducks on the Rockaway River near my home to paint this scene," shares ...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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In the heart of Paris, a secluded garden stirs with the morning sun. Vibrant blue, green, and purple blend with a spontaneous burst of magenta and pink wildfl...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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A wintry scene unfolds with bare trees and geese in flight along a riverbank. Tangled weeds create intricate patterns that harmonize with the freeform structu...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Watercolor
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Inspired by the azure waters of iconic Lake Tahoe, artist Lisa Elley portrays the beauty of the mountains in the fall season. Her signature impasto technique ...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Artist Judy Mackey paints an impressionist still life of a bright red daisy in a vase. "I happened on a Gerber Daisy that had a bro...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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As the sun descends, it leaves a wondrous gift, bathing the seascape in a beautiful array of colors. Yellow and orange hues grace the darkening sky while irid...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Artist Lisa Elley presents an impressionist garden with extraordinarily rich flora. She paints the piece with a palette knife, greatly inspired by Monet's wor...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
Mid-20th Century Impressionist More Art
Paper, Oil, Board
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As the evening falls, Michigan Avenue in Chicago bustles with activity as pedestrians stroll down the sidewalk. The iconic lampposts of The Magnificent Mile c...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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In her signature style, artist Sri Rao captures the splendid sight of a rural landscape bathed in the warm hues of the setting sun. Fie...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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Bathed in the glow from the window and an inner light, a woman sits in front of a piano. As she gently hits the keys, she plays her hopeful tune. This impress...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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Inspired by the aerial view of pedestrians from a hotel balcony in Paris, this impressionistic painting depicts a stylishly attired woman strolling with her c...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Nestled in Coastal Big Sur, California, the jagged cliffs meet the soothing azure waves, creating a picturesque scenery. Enhanced by the vibrant hues of the wildflower...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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While traveling in the Pacific Northwest, artist Thomas Hoerber photographed this scene during a small break in the overcast...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Watercolor
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"I came across an old tractor parked in someone's yard and wanted to capture its current state with all of its dignity," shares artist David Thelen. The vehic...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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A young man sits under the shade of trees, sketching intently en plein air. The composition features artist Onelio Marerro's former student engaged with natur...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Artist Onelio Marrero captures a gentle moment of a Hasidic mother and her child enjoying the surf as the tide rolled in. While out on the New Jersey seashore...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Artist Carey Parks depicts a woman walking along the streets of Soho. A yellow taxi passes in the background, compelling the viewer to explore the compositio...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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An abandoned warehouse stands quietly on the side roads of Camarillo, California. Despite the gray, overcast day, the building still displays intriguing color...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Watercolor
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Houses and cottages dot a quiet street inspired by the township of Sterling in Ontario, Canada. Bathed in the warm sunlight, the setting comes to life with bo...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
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Nestled within an explosion of pink blooms, a woman becomes one with her surroundings. Soft hues form an ethereal refuge, providing a tranquil space for her r...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
Artist Comments
In the scenic beauty of Ontonagon River, Paulding, Michigan, a tranquil scene unfolds. The sun bathes the rocks and trees in the full radiance of summer, whil...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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Abundant with trees, the painting offers a visual sanctuary. The blend of warm yellow greens and cooler blue greens evokes feelings of freshness that calm the...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
Artist Comments
The winter sun begins to shine, casting a warm, gentle glow upon the treetops and the two houses, almost concealed by the foliage. As the snow gradually melts...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
Artist Comments
The painting depicts a serene autumn scene in the delta land of the Mississippi River. Towering cypress trees encircle the area, with the water hazily reflecting their yellow and orange-tinted leaves. The composition exudes a tranquil atmosphere.
About the Artist
Artist Shela Goodman paints impressionist pastoral scenes with graceful refinement. Growing up on a farm in rural Arkansas, she nurtured her love for the beauty of nature. Shela captures these memories in harmonious displays of the environment around her. She was diagnosed with partial cone dystrophy, which closed off her periphery and deterred her ability to see. “In order for me to see a large painting in full, I have to take photos of it while it is in progress to see what the whole painting looks like,†shares Shela. The impairment of her vision only inspired her to paint what she can still perceive. She spent many years in Indiana and Michigan until she returned to Arkansas to care for her parents. Their unused living room became the perfect studio space for Shela, allowing her to grow her creative process while being available for her parents’ needs. As expected from a genealogy buff, she savors time spent with her family. Her other pastimes also include cooking and quilting. Various institutions in the United States have commissioned Shela’s highly favored work.
Words that describe this painting: cypress, trees, river, Mississippi, delta, fall, autumn, water, woods, season, forest...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
1970s Impressionist More Art
Canvas, Acrylic
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The lifeguard tower, palm trees, and beachgoers bask in the sun on a radiant summer day. The wind blows the clouds across the s...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
Artist Comments
A young woman sits on the grass, deeply engrossed in painting the scenery before her. Loose brushwork and palette knife techniques bring to life the graceful ...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil, Canvas
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Golden foliage blankets the forest in this autumn landscape. The vast meadow in the distance echoes the seasonal transition. With the sun hidden behind drifti...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
Artist Comments
Artist Ruth LaGue shares an idyllic landscape of the lush countryside. Two red barns and a silo stand abreast of verdant trees in the background. Inspired by ...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
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Artist Ruth LaGue shows a view of a barn and silo painted in an impressionist fashion. Inspired by the shapes and patterns of the landscape, she draws the vie...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
Artist Comments
Artist David Thelen captures a timber laying on the green meadow. "I wonder about the purpose of the tree being cut and abandoned in the woods," says David. T...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
Artist Comments
Using a limited palette and harmonious colors, artist Faye Vander Veer paints a leisurely scene of a winter afternoon at the Tuileries Gardens in Paris. "Ther...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Oil
Artist Comments
"One of my favorite neighborhoods is the East Village in New York City," says artist Carey Parks. She paints three women taking a l...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
Artist Comments
Artist Fernando Garcia paints a farm and a silo on a vast midwestern landscape. He offers the viewer a serene environment ...
21st Century and Contemporary Impressionist More Art
Acrylic
