Introduction

You've probably heard the term "Impressionism" and maybe wondered what, exactly, it means. You may already know that the term refers to a style of art, but what style? and what artists?

Over the past fifty years, the work of artists who are called “Impressionists” has become incredibly valuable. Perhaps more importantly, the paintings are now enjoyed by millions of people. So what’s all the fuss about?

The Impressionist painters include among their ranks such giants as Claude Monet (he of the Waterlilies fame) and August Renoir. These painters, and many more, developed a painting style that is still emulated by thousands of artists world-wide. They were perhaps the first artists of the modern era who went beyond depiction of what they saw and tried to capture what they felt—their impressions if you will! Mind you, the term Impressionism was not coined by any of the artists in the Impressionist movement. Actually the term was first used negatively by an art critic to dismiss a painting by Monet called Impression: Sunrise.

If you like art, or perhaps would like to like art, then you’ve come to the right place. Adventures in Impressionism will take you on an exciting and very informative journey. You’ll learn about the artists who preceded the Impressionists and how their work led to the develop of Impressionism. You’ll also learn about some of the techniques the Impressionists used to create their wonderful paintings and the kinds of subjects they painted. Finally, you’ll learn to identify whether a painting is done by Monet or Manet, Renoir or Pissaro.

But what makes Adventures in Impressionism unique is that you’ll have the opportunity to participate in some cool activities that are designed to help you understand Impressionism and the artistic process in general.

Still not sure if a course in Impressionism is for you? Try the short quiz below to find out if Adventures in Impressionism has something to offer you!

Impressionism Quiz