Art of The Western World Season 1 Episode 7 A Fresh View: Impressionism and Postimpressionism

In Art of the Western World season 1 episode 7, titled A Fresh View: Impressionism and Postimpressionism, viewers are taken on a journey through the 19th-century art movement that transformed the way artists approached their work. The episode explores how these artists had a new way of capturing the world around them, influenced by new technologies and a rapidly changing society.

The episode begins by examining the beginnings of the impressionist movement, with its focus on light and color. We learn about some of the leading artists of this style, such as Monet, Degas, and Renoir, and see examples of their work. The episode explains how these artists were driven to capture the world around them in a way that had never been seen before, and how their work shocked and challenged traditional art critics.

As the episode progresses, we learn about the postimpressionist movement, which developed out of impressionism but took it in new and exciting directions. We explore the works of artists such as Van Gogh, Cézanne, and Gauguin, and how their styles evolved from the work of the impressionists. The episode examines how these artists experimented with form, color, and perspective, and how they moved away from the representational art of the past towards something new and exciting.

Throughout the episode, we see examples of some of the most famous works produced during this period, including Monet's Water Lilies, Van Gogh's Starry Night, and Cézanne's Mont Sainte-Victoire. The episode also examines some lesser-known works that are no less impressive, showing how this period in art history was truly a time of innovation and change.

In addition to exploring the art itself, the episode also delves into the social and cultural context of the time. Viewers learn about how the industrial revolution and the rise of technology influenced artists to approach their work in new ways. We see how the world was changing rapidly, and how artists responded to these changes by pushing the boundaries of what was possible in art.

Overall, A Fresh View: Impressionism and Postimpressionism is a fascinating exploration of one of the most important periods in art history. The episode provides a fascinating insight into the lives and works of some of the world's most famous artists, and shows how their revolutionary approach to art continues to influence and inspire artists today. Whether you're a long-time art lover or just starting to explore the world of art, this episode is a must-see for anyone interested in the creative process and how artists respond to the world around them.