What is a key feature of Impressionism?

Impressionism is characterized by its focus on capturing the transient effects of light and color to depict a fleeting moment in time. Artists of this movement aimed to convey their immediate perception of a scene, often painting en plein air (outdoors) to directly observe nature and the atmosphere. This involved using loose brushwork and an emphasis on the changing qualities of light throughout different times of the day and seasons.

The key aspect of using light and color to convey a specific moment aligns perfectly with the goals of Impressionist artists, who sought to represent the world as they experienced it rather than through traditional, realistic portrayals. The movement often reflects spontaneous, everyday subjects, which resonates with the emphasis on immediate visual experience rather than historical narratives, abstract forms, or dramatic color contrasts often found in other art styles.