AUSTRALIAN IMPRESSIONISM Meaning and
Definition
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Australian Impressionism refers to a specific art movement that emerged in the late 19th century in Australia and is characterized by its expression of the unique Australian landscape and lifestyle. Also known as the Heidelberg School, this art movement was influenced by the French Impressionist movement but developed its own distinctive style and subject matter.
Australian Impressionists were primarily interested in capturing the play of light and color in the Australian landscape, focusing on the effects of sunlight on natural scenes and the vibrant colors found in the Australian environment. They sought to depict the unique qualities of the country's light, atmosphere, and flora, often using loose brushwork and capturing the immediacy of the moment.
The artists of Australian Impressionism also aimed to portray the daily life of the Australian people, often depicting scenes of rural labor, leisure activities, and urban life. They aimed to present an authentic and unidealized image of Australian society, capturing the vibrancy and energy of the emerging nation.
The movement started with a group of artists who often painted together outdoors, most notably Tom Roberts, Arthur Streeton, and Frederick McCubbin. They were later joined by other artists who shared their interest in capturing the Australian landscape. Together, they captured the public imagination and had a significant impact on the development of Australian art, playing a crucial role in shaping the national identity.
In summary, Australian Impressionism refers to a significant art movement that emerged in Australia in the late 19th century. It is characterized by its portrayal of the Australian landscape, with a focus on capturing the effects of light and color, as well as scenes of everyday Australian life.
Etymology of AUSTRALIAN IMPRESSIONISM
The etymology of the phrase "Australian Impressionism" can be broken down as follows:
1. Australian: The word "Australian" refers to anything related to or originating from the country of Australia. It is derived from the Latin word "Australis", meaning "southern", as Australia is located in the southern hemisphere.
2. Impressionism: The term "Impressionism" originated in France in the 19th century and refers to an art movement that aimed to capture an artist's immediate impression of a scene or subject. The word "impression" comes from the French verb "impressionner", meaning "to impress" or "to leave a mark".
Therefore, "Australian Impressionism" refers to a specific art movement that emerged in Australia during the late 19th century.
