Impressionism\’s foundations were made today

February 25, On this day

Making an impression(ist)

Born on February 25, 1841, Pierre-Auguste Renoir is one of the artists who gave the entire movement of Impressionism its name — a legacy that has continued to inspire and involve creators across the world, centuries down the line.

It was in April 1874 that Renoir exhibited his work alongside fellow painters Claude Monet, Alfred Sisley, and Frederic Bazille. A review of this very exhibition was gave this group and the entire movement its name.

The French painter is well known as a celebrator of beauty and especially feminine sensuality. In fact, the female nude was one of his primary subjects. Vibrant light, saturated color, and subjects in intimate, candid compositions — these are all well-known commonalities of his artwork.