What is the Difference Between Impressionism and Post-Impressionism?

Impressionism and Post-Impressionism are two influential artistic movements that emerged in the late 19th century. They share some similarities but also have distinct differences:

Similarities:

1. Both movements originated in France and focused on capturing the moods and feelings associated with a particular moment or scene.
2. They both broke away from the traditional artistic techniques and styles of their time.

Differences:

1. Time Period: Impressionism started in the early 1860s, while Post-Impressionism emerged from 1886 to 1905.
2. Definition: Impressionism is characterized by the depiction of a sketch or painting based on an artist's impression of a scenery at that particular moment, using small, thin brushstrokes and soft edges. Post-Impressionism, on the other hand, emphasizes geometric forms, distortion of forms for an expressive effect, and the use of unnatural and random colors.
3. Art Styles: Impressionism is characterized by the use of small, thin brushstrokes, soft edges, and an emphasis on the fleeting effect of light, atmosphere, and movement. Post-Impressionism is characterized by the use of bold colors, thick brushstrokes, and a more structured approach to form, as well as a greater focus on emotion and symbolism.
4. Influence: Impressionism paved the way for Neo-impressionism, Fauvism, Cubism, and Post-impressionism, while Post-impressionism paved the way for modern art.
5. Process: Post-impressionism involved a more methodical and time-consuming process than impressionism.

Some notable Impressionist artists include Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas, while famous Post-Impressionist artists include Vincent van Gogh, Paul Cézanne, Georges Seurat, and Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec.

Comparative Table: Impressionism vs Post-Impressionism

Here is a table comparing the differences between Impressionism and Post-Impressionism:

Both Impressionism and Post-Impressionism were artistic movements that emerged in the late 19th century, with Impressionism preceding Post-Impressionism. They both influenced various aspects of the arts, including literature, music, architecture, and more.