Texes Art EC-12 Practice Exam

What period did the term "Impressionism" originate from?

1. 19th century

2. 17th century

3. 18th century

4. 20th century

The correct answer is: 19th century

The term "Impressionism" originated in the 19th century, specifically in relation to a group of artists in France who began to break away from traditional artistic conventions. This movement sought to capture the fleeting effects of light and atmosphere, often painted en plein air, or outdoors, which was a significant shift from the studio-bound practices of earlier periods. The name itself comes from Claude Monet's painting "Impression, Sunrise," which was exhibited in 1874 and led to the derogatory label being adopted by critics. The 19th century was a time of significant change in art, and Impressionism played a crucial role in the evolution of modern art, influencing many subsequent movements.