Definition & Meaning of "impressionist"

Who is an "impressionist"?

An impressionist is a painter, musician, or writer who follows the principles of impressionism, an art movement that originated in the late 19th century. Impressionists focus on capturing the momentary effects of their subject matter in their work. In painting, this often means using loose brushstrokes and bright colors to depict scenes with a sense of immediacy and movement. In music, impressionist composers use innovative harmonies and textures to evoke moods and imagery. Writers in this style may focus on subjective experiences and impressions rather than detailed descriptions. The goal of impressionism is to convey the artist's perception and emotions, often emphasizing the fleeting nature of a moment.