Few artistic movements have left as lasting a mark on art history as Impressionism. Driven by a desire to capture light, color, and fleeting moments, this mid-19th-century movement became one of the most influential forces in modern art—and broke radically with academic tradition. But Impressionism didn’t just make history—it’s also one of the most popular categories in our poster shop. Here are ten of the most famous Impressionist artists, all of whom you can discover at Betterposter. Enjoy!
1. Claude Monet (1840–1926)
You can’t talk about Impressionism without mentioning Claude Monet. Often seen as the face of the movement, not only did his painting Impression, Sunrise give the movement its name, but he also mastered the portrayal of light like no other. His vibrant brushwork captured the fleeting beauty of the moment. Particularly famous are his series, such as the Rouen Cathedral and his iconic Water Lilies from his garden in Giverny, which became central themes of his work.
2. Camille Pissarro (1830–1903)
Camille Pissarro was one of the most prolific Impressionists, creating around 5,000 works. He also acted as a mentor to many younger artists. As the only artist to exhibit at all eight Paris Impressionist exhibitions, he painted both serene rural scenes and bustling city streets. His talent for rendering atmospheric light was remarkable, and he remained open to evolving techniques throughout his life—greatly influencing Paul Cézanne and Paul Gauguin.
3. Gustave Caillebotte (1848–1894)
Gustave Caillebotte occupies a unique place in Impressionism. His works often appear more realistic than those of his peers, but his precise use of perspective brought new depth to the style. His best-known painting, Paris Street; Rainy Day, is a prime example of his modern, urban vision. With clear lines and keen observation, he portrayed Paris as a city of modernity—cool and structured, yet full of life.
4. Alfred Sisley (1839–1899)
Alfred Sisley remained more devoted to pure landscape painting than almost any other Impressionist. His canvases frequently depicted French rivers, villages, and bridges in serene, light-filled compositions. Works like Flood at Port-Marly reveal his sensitivity to natural lighting and his gift for harmonious color. Sisley’s paintings feel like poetic snapshots of nature—quiet, peaceful, and timelessly beautiful.
5. Édouard Manet (1832–1883)
Though Manet identified more with Realism, he was a pioneer of Impressionism. His paintings such as The Luncheon on the Grass and Olympia broke conventions and stirred scandal, opening the door for new themes and styles in art. Fascinated by modern life, Manet significantly shaped the emerging Impressionist aesthetic. His work was bold, contemporary—and key to the movement’s evolution.
6. Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1841–1919)
Pierre-Auguste Renoir celebrated life through his art. His paintings are filled with warmth, joy, and sensuality. Everyday Parisian scenes—dancers, cafés, bathers—are portrayed in rich, colorful compositions. His masterpiece Dance at Le Moulin de la Galette captures the vibrancy of social life like a joyful still life in motion. Renoir’s soft contours and glowing palette gave his works a dreamlike charm.
7. Berthe Morisot (1841–1895)
One of the most important women in Impressionism, Berthe Morisot was deeply integrated in the Paris art scene—both artistically and personally. Her works often depict intimate domestic scenes, women and children, painted with delicate hues. She exhibited in nearly every Impressionist show and was highly respected by peers like Édouard Manet. Her art conveyed the female perspective with remarkable lightness and depth.
8. Marie Bracquemond (1840–1916)
Today considered one of the “three great ladies of Impressionism,” Marie Bracquemond was long overlooked. Her works—such as Under the Lamp—show her mastery of color and light. Despite a strained relationship with her husband, artist Félix Bracquemond, she remained committed to her vision. Her art is now being rediscovered as a powerful and independent voice within the movement.
9. Edgar Degas (1834–1917)
Edgar Degas stood apart from other Impressionists in several ways. He rarely painted outdoors, focusing instead on interior scenes—particularly theaters and ballet. His famous depictions of dancers, like The Dance Class, are rich in rhythm and unusual perspectives. Degas was fascinated by photographic angles and the interplay of light and shadow, giving his work a distinctive, modern edge.
10. Mary Cassatt (1844–1926)
Mary Cassatt was one of the few American artists within the Impressionist inner circle—and one of its most empathetic voices. Her paintings centered on women and children, often in tender mother-child moments. Cassatt brought Impressionism to America and reshaped perceptions of women’s roles in art. Her work blends technical brilliance with heartfelt intimacy.
Impressionism for Your Home
These ten remarkable artists didn’t just revolutionize art—they continue to touch us today with their unique use of light, color, and atmosphere. Perhaps that’s why Impressionism feels so timeless—and why it’s enjoying a resurgence in modern interiors.
If you're inspired to bring a piece of this fascinating movement into your home, Betterposter has you covered. Our shop features a wide selection of high-quality Impressionist prints—from iconic masterpieces to hidden gems. Whether for your living room, bedroom, or home office, the vivid colors, expressive brushwork, and uplifting mood of these works will add a special touch to any space.
