Lecture Notes: Post-Impressionism in Art History

Introduction to the Art Movement

• Key Artists: Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Paul Cézanne, Georges Seurat.
• Term Origin: Coined by English art critic Roger Fry in 1910.
• Significance: Introduced abstraction and emotion into art, challenging the previous realistic and rigid styles.

Characteristics of Post-Impressionism

• Emphasis on emotion and abstract techniques.
• Use of vivid colors and abstract shapes.
• Each artist had a unique style, contributing to the diversity of the movement.

Vincent van Gogh

• Known for expressive brushstrokes and brilliant colors.
• His works portray an inner world rich with emotions.
• Iconic piece: "Self-Portrait with a Bandaged Ear," showing emotional and mental fragility.
• Van Gogh's work focused on the "landscape of the soul."

Georges Seurat

• Adopted a scientific approach to painting.
• Best known for "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte."
• Developed the technique of Pointillism, using tiny dots of color.
• Aimed to achieve an optical mixture through color placement.

Paul Gauguin

• Used vivid colors and simple forms.
• Traveled extensively to find inspiration, with significant time spent in Tahiti.
• Controversial personal life, which influences perceptions of his art.

Paul Cézanne

• Known for his meticulous and perfectionist approach.
• Focused on still life paintings to avoid the challenges of live models.
• Innovated with perspectives by showing objects from multiple sides.

Impact of Post-Impressionism

• Laid the groundwork for art movements like Fauvism, Cubism, and Expressionism.
• Encouraged exploration of abstract forms, influencing 20th-century art.

Conclusion

• Post-Impressionism was a game-changing style that deeply influenced modern art.
• Its legacy continues to impact the way art is created and perceived today.

• Engagement: Viewers are encouraged to reflect on their favorite Post-Impressionism pieces and how the movement influences modern art.
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