Lecture Notes: Post-Impressionism Art Movement

Introduction to Post-Impressionism

• Associated Artists: Vincent van Gogh, Paul Gauguin, Paul Cézanne
• Represents a radical transformation in art
• Emphasizes expression and creativity over realism

Art Before Post-Impressionism

• Art was rigid, set in traditional depictions
• Impressionism focused on realistic depictions
• Shift towards portraying emotions and abstract techniques

The Term and Movement

• Coined by English art critic Roger Frye in 1910
• Used to describe exhibition "Monet and the Post-Impressionists"
• Artists didn't see themselves as a cohesive group

Characteristics of Post-Impressionism

• Daring, vivid colors
• Abstract shapes creating visual effects
• Focus on emotional expression over realistic landscapes

Key Artists and Contributions

Vincent van Gogh

• Synonymous with modern art
• Used expressive brushstrokes and brilliant colors
• His work reflects his emotional state, e.g., "Self-Portrait with Bandaged Ear"
• Believed in portraying inner world and emotions

Georges Seurat

• Scientific approach to painting
• Focused on optics and color theories
• Known for Pointillism: technique using tiny dots of pure colors
• Famous work: "A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte"

Paul Gauguin

• Used vibrant colors and simple forms
• Traveled extensively for inspiration (Brittany, Arles, Martinique, Panama, Tahiti)
• Work reflects both independence and influence of his lifestyle
• Controversial personal life

Paul Cézanne

• Perfectionist, focused on detailed work
• Liked painting still lifes due to patience required
• Played with perspective, portraying objects from multiple sides
• Changed how art depicted the real world

Impact of Post-Impressionism

• Paved the way for major art movements like Fauvism, Cubism, and Expressionism
• Influenced 20th-century artists and beyond

Conclusion

• Encouragement to explore how post-impressionism influences today's art
• Invitation to engage with Curious Muse's community and content