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During the Impressionist art period, which flourished primarily in France during the late 19th century, there was indeed a significant emphasis on freedom of expression and a rejection of traditional academic standards. Impressionist artists sought to break away from the rigid conventions of the time and explore new ways of depicting the world around them.
Impressionist artists valued the freedom to express their individual perceptions and emotions through their artwork. They often painted en plein air (outdoors) to capture the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere, which allowed for a more spontaneous and immediate rendering of their subject matter.
The Impressionists rejected the strict rules and techniques taught in academic art schools of the time. Instead of focusing on highly detailed and polished compositions, they prioritized capturing the essence of a scene through loose brushwork, bold colors, and unconventional compositions.
While academic art often focused on historical or mythological subjects, the Impressionists turned their attention to everyday life and scenes from contemporary urban and rural settings. They depicted modern life, including landscapes, cityscapes, leisure activities, and portraits of ordinary people.
Impressionist artists experimented with innovative techniques such as broken brushwork, dabs and dashes of color, and the use of complementary colors to create vibrant and dynamic compositions. Their emphasis on capturing the effects of light and atmosphere led to paintings that appeared spontaneous and atmospheric.
The rejection of academic standards by the Impressionists initially met with harsh criticism from the artistic establishment and the public. Their loose brushwork and unconventional subject matter were seen as radical departures from traditional art forms. However, over time, the Impressionists gained recognition for their groundbreaking contributions to the art world and are now celebrated as pioneers of modern art.
Overall, the Impressionist movement was characterized by a spirit of innovation, experimentation, and a rejection of established norms, which paved the way for the development of modern art.