Impressionism is a 19th century art movement that originates from Paris, France.  It is characterised by the use of unblended colours applied through small, sketchy and broken brushstrokes. Impressionist artists focused on the play of light, which led them to work outdoors and paint their sceneries or landscapes quickly.

The Impressionist art movement was considered by many to be revolutionary and controversial, as it significantly diverged from the traditional and conservative artistic styles or techniques of its time.

Some of the pioneers of impressionism include Claude Monet, Pierre Auguste Renoir, Alfred Sisley and Camille Pissarro.