Impressionism was a revolutionary art movement that originated in France in the 19th century. It is characterized by loose brushwork, vibrant colors, and an emphasis on capturing the fleeting effects of light. The term Impressionism was derived from a painting by Claude Monet titled Impression, Sunrise, which was exhibited in 1874. The Impressionist painters, including Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, sought to break away from the rigid conventions of academic painting and create art that reflected their own subjective experiences. They often painted en plein air, or outdoors, to capture the effects of natural light on their subjects. Impressionism was initially met with harsh criticism from the traditional art world, but it soon gained popularity and became one of the most influential movements in art history. The use of broken color and rapid brushstrokes to create a sense of spontaneity and movement has had a lasting impact on modern art. In conclusion, Impressionism revolutionized the way artists approached painting, focusing on capturing the essence of a moment rather than creating a perfectly realistic representation. Its influence can still be seen in contemporary art and continues to inspire artists around the world.