Episode 14: Impressionism

We are all the subjects of impressions, and some of us seek to convey the impressions to others. In the art of communicating impressions lies the power of generalizing without losing the logical connection of parts to the whole which satisfies the mind.

— George Inness

 George Inness, After the Storm (1877-1878), oil on canvas, private collection

When we talk about impressionism, most people's thoughts immediately leap to Claude Monet and the French Impressionists. However, there is a difference between what is called 'small i" impressionism, and the Impressionists.

Join David, Judy and Connie as they discuss the the subtlties of the genre, and what it really means. And where does Guy Rose and the American Impressionists come into it all? 

Connie brings up the point about Claude Monet painting Rouen Cathedral at different times of day, to explore the changing light. Isn't impressionism all about capturing the effect of light hitting the object. Look at the two pieces below to see how Monet observed the ever changing light.

 

     

Left: Rouen Cathedral at Sunset 1894 o/c 39 x 26 in. Pushkin Museum of Fine Arts, Moscow

Right: Rouen Cathedral, Symphony in Grey and Rose 1894, o/c 39.5 x 25.5 in. Amgueddfa Cymru (National Museum of Wales) Cardiff

Thanks for listening. We have enjoyed sharing our discussions on art with a larger audience and we appreciate your company - otherwise we would be sat here talking to ourselves!if you have a subject you would like to have us talk about, drop us a line; we always love to hear from you.

Cheers, Connie, David and Judy

All inspired painters are impressionists, even though it be true that some impressionists are not inspired. — Joaquin Sorolla