Post-Impressionism was a late 19th-century art movement that followed Impressionism, rejecting its emphasis on the objective representation of light and instead exploring subjective expression and personal interpretations.
Key Characteristics / Core Concepts
- Subjective Expression: Artists prioritized conveying emotions and personal perspectives over objective reality.
- Symbolic Representation: Images often held symbolic meaning, going beyond literal depiction.
- Stronger Colors and Brushstrokes: Post-Impressionists used more intense colors and visible brushstrokes, adding texture and emotion.
- Distorted Forms: Forms were often distorted to better express the artist’s emotional or symbolic intent.
- Individual Styles: Unlike Impressionism’s shared style, Post-Impressionism fostered diverse individual styles.
How It Works / Its Function
Post-Impressionism functioned as a reaction against Impressionism’s limitations. Artists sought to imbue their work with deeper meaning and personal expression, moving away from the purely observational approach of their predecessors.
This subjective approach gave rise to a wide range of styles, each with its unique characteristics and philosophies. The movement ultimately paved the way for many 20th-century art movements.
Examples
- Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night”
- Paul Cézanne’s “Mont Sainte-Victoire”
- Paul Gauguin’s “The Yellow Christ”
Why is it Important? / Significance
Post-Impressionism’s significance lies in its revolutionary shift away from objective representation toward subjective expression. It opened new avenues for artistic exploration, influencing countless artists and movements that followed.
Its legacy continues to resonate today, inspiring both artists and art lovers with its potent emotional impact and expressive power.
Related Concepts
- Impressionism
- Symbolism
- Fauvism
Post-Impressionism was a pivotal moment in art history, pushing boundaries and ushering in a new era of artistic expression.