Post-Impressionism

Post-Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in France in the late 19th century, following the close of the Impressionist era. While it retained the vivid color palette and real-life subject matter of Impressionism, Post-Impressionism rejected its limitations by emphasizing a more structured, formal composition and greater emotional depth. This movement was not defined by a single aesthetic but represented a range of creative responses to the Impressionists’ explorations of light and color, with each artist offering a unique take on visual expression.

post impressionism painting
Paul Cézanne, The Neighborhood of Jas de Bouffan 1885-1887

Artists associated with Post-Impressionism, such as Paul Cézanne, Vincent van Gogh, Georges Seurat, and Paul Gauguin, pushed the boundaries of color and form to express their personal vision. These artists diverged in their approaches—Seurat with his pointillism, Cézanne with his structured brushstrokes and exploration of geometry, van Gogh with his emotive swirls and vibrant palette, and Gauguin with his symbolic content and pure color.

post impressionism painting
Vincent van Gogh, Pink Peach Tree in Blossom 1888.
post impressionism aesthetic
Georges Seurat, Young Woman Powdering Herself, 1888–1890,

Characteristics of Post-Impressionism:

  • Emphasis on Abstract Qualities and Symbolic Content: Unlike Impressionists, who often sought to capture fleeting moments, Post-Impressionists conveyed their emotions and ideas through distinctive brushstrokes and color choices, often imbuing their works with symbolic meanings.
  • Innovative Use of Color and Form: Post-Impressionists used colors and shapes expressively rather than realistically, paving the way for the development of later abstract art movements.
  • A Focus on Structural Composition: Artists like Cézanne are noted for their focus on underlying architectural structures within nature, influencing the development of Cubism.
post impressionism portrait
Paul Gauguin, Spirit of the Dead Watching 1892

Post-Impressionism played a pivotal role in the transition from the naturalistic depictions of Impressionism to the abstract styles that dominated the 20th century. It is celebrated for its contributions to modern art, particularly in how it allowed individual expressions and emotional depth to take precedence in artistic endeavors. The movement’s emphasis on personal interpretation has left a lasting impact on how art is conceived and created, heralding a new era of exploration and diversity in painting.

In the mood for some humor?

painting cezanne
Sarcastic notebook citing Cezanne’s style

Read more about Impressionism and Post-Impressionism:

Difference between Impressionism and Post-Impressionism: Art History Insights

Impressionism and Japonisme: How Japan Has Inspired Western Artists

Best Books on Post-Impressionism:

Parsons, T., & Gale, I. (1999). Post-Impressionism: The Rise of Modern Art, 1880-1920.

Lewis, M. T. (Ed.). (2007). Critical Readings in Impressionism and Post-Impressionism: An Anthology. University of California Press.

Brodskaïa, N. (2019). Post-Impressionism.

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