Comparing Impressionism and Expressionism

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Comparing Impressionism and Expressionism

Impressionism and expressionism differ in the message of the art and painting techniques. Impressionists created art for arts sake instead of using art to teach something, while expressionists began to use art as a political instrument (Art in Context). Further, impressionists paid much attention to depicting light in their paintings. For example, Claude Monets painting called Impression Sunrise is full of light, and the red sun is used for contrast and to direct the viewers attention. In comparison, expressionists used contrasting colors and abstract forms in their works. Edvard Munchs The Scream and Henry Asencios painting of a woman against an abstract background are good examples of expressionists use of colors and forms for conveying emotions rather than depicting reality.

Although impressionism and expressionism are different types of art, one can find similarities between them. Both types of art advocate for freedom of expression instead of following established traditions. For example, it was not common in France to depict landscapes; instead, realistic portraits and depictions of historical events prevailed. Impressionists got away from this tradition by beginning to depict landscapes and scenes from ordinary life. Theodore Robinsons painting La debacle is a good example of this since it does not try to portray the woman or show a significant event; instead, it focuses on the scenery. Expressionist paintings also diverge from traditions of art and try to convey emotions rather than depict the world as it is. For example, Rainer Magolds painting of a woman does not try to convey the real colors and proportions of the womans face because its purpose is not realism but emotional expression.

Finally, both impressionism and expressionism are the products of their time. Impressionism emerged in the second half of the 19^th century following the invention of photography. Therefore, impressionists were inspired by photography and wanted to apply its principles to paintings. Morisots Summers Day is an example of this: the composition is not centered, and the depiction of the woman on the left is cropped. Expressionism originated at the end of the 19^th century in Germany, during the chaotic era on the verge of World War I. As such, it was intended to criticize power and social order through art and was not interested in depicting nature or things in the outside world (Art in Context). Thus, although impressionism and expressionism emerged in different times and places, they were affected by surrounding circumstances.

Work Cited

Art in Context. Art Periods A Detailed Look at the Art History Timeline. Art in Context, 2021.

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