I have a varied opinion on the Impressionist style of art. Some I enjoy and some I enjoy less, but do not entirely dislike. I enjoy impressionist paintings that are done in warm tones and depict leisurely and comforting scenes. For example, as I was reading through the course material on Impressionism and completing the written assignment, I was caught by the painting Carnation, Lily, Lily, Rose by John Singer Sargent.
He was awakened to the idea for the painting watching the children water lilies at the Lavington Rectory in Sussex in 1884. The painting was completed in the autumns of 1885 and 1886 at the Farnham House and Russell House the Broadway homes of Frank Millet according to wetcanvas.com.
The element of the painting that held my attention was the reflection of light onto the faces of the young girls from the lanterns which they hold. The scene feels real. I can picture these girls hanging the lanterns in preparation for a party on a warm summer’s night. This I enjoy, the warm feeling from the lanterns and the story it tells from a single snapshot.
I enjoy how the artist is able to alter the image in impressionism to depict his or her “impressions”. Washing some details and cold cut lines for soft, blended tones and edges. Although, I do also enjoy the more realistic elements of former arts. The Renaissance style of proportion, and detailed body lines. However, those elaborate paintings are not exactly suitable for normal everyday decor in the home. Perhaps this is the charm of Impressionism, it is suitable for everyday situations. Although, not all Impressionistic art appeals to me. For example, I do not enjoy James McNeill Whistler’s Arrangement in Grey and Black: Portrait of the Painter’s Mother.
Arrangement in Grey and Black: Portrait of the Painter's Mother
Anna McNeill Whistler was with her son in London when she posed for him to complete this painting. I like art to evoke joyous feelings or awe when I look at them, to me his painting is just dull and depressing. Yes, I understand that not all art can be happy. Impressionism has such a range of feelings, I simply enjoy the warm end of the spectrum.
