What artistic movement emerged in the late 19th century that focused on capturing light and color?

Impressionism emerged in the late 19th century as an innovative artistic movement that emphasized the effects of light and color in painting. This style is characterized by its loose brushwork and vibrant palette, reflecting the artists' desire to capture fleeting moments and the nuances of natural light. Impressionists often painted en plein air (outdoors) to accurately portray the atmosphere and the shifting qualities of light throughout the day.

The focus on personal perception and the instantaneous experience of a scene marked a significant departure from previous art movements, which often prioritized more detailed and idealized representations. Notable Impressionist artists, such as Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, showcased this technique by depicting everyday life, landscapes, and urban scenes, emphasizing how light altered color and mood.

In contrast, the other movements mentioned do not share this specific focus on light and color as central themes. Realism sought to depict everyday life with an emphasis on objectivity and depiction of the mundane without embellishment. Surrealism emerged in the early 20th century and focused on dreamlike imagery and the exploration of the unconscious mind, while Expressionism prioritized emotional experience and individual perspective rather than the accurate representation of light and color.