It is often forgotten just how provocative Impressionist canvases seemed when they were first exhibited in 1874. The advocates of the new style rejected the established principles of art prevalent at that time in France.

Daringly using colour and rapid brushstrokes, the Impressionists worked out of doors, creating paintings that captured the transient effects of light and feeling. Ralph Skea shows how Impressionist artists transformed everyday subject matter, and traces the movement from its origins in France to its spread to America and Australia.

Impressionism’s initial shock factor gradually gave way to widespread acceptance and popularity. Its profound impact on modern art cannot be overestimated.