Impressionism is an art movement that emerged in the 19th century in France. It is known for its emphasis on capturing the fleeting impressions of a moment through the use of light and color. The movement was pioneered by artists such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Edgar Degas, among others.

The Impressionists sought to break away from traditional painting styles that focused on achieving realism and instead sought to capture the feeling or impression of a particular moment or scene. This was achieved through the use of loose brushstrokes, vibrant colors, and an emphasis on the play of light and shadow.

One of the defining features of Impressionism is its use of light. Impressionists would often paint outdoors, en plein air, to capture the natural light and atmosphere of a scene. This led to a focus on the effects of light on color, which the Impressionists sought to capture through their use of color theory.

Another hallmark of Impressionism is its emphasis on the everyday. Rather than focusing on historical or mythological scenes, the Impressionists often depicted scenes from everyday life, such as parks, cafes, and street scenes. They sought to capture the fleeting moments of modern life, often using rapid brushstrokes to create a sense of movement and energy.

Despite its initial rejection by the art establishment, Impressionism went on to become one of the most influential art movements of the 19th century. Its emphasis on capturing the fleeting moment and the beauty of everyday life has continued to inspire artists to this day.