The Impressionists are the most popular group in art
history - millions flock every year to marvel at their
masterpieces. But, to begin with, they were scorned,
penniless outsiders.
1874 was the year that changed everything; the first
Impressionists, “hungry for independence”, broke the
mould by holding their own exhibition outside official
channels. Impressionism was born and the art world
was changed forever.
What led to that first groundbreaking show 150
years ago? Who were the maverick personalities
that wielded their brushes in such a radical and
provocative way? The spectacular Musée d’Orsay
exhibition brings fresh eyes to this extraordinary tale
of passion and rebellion. The story is told not by
historians and curators but in the words of those who
witnessed the dawn of Impressionism: the artists,
press and people of Paris, 1874.
Made in close collaboration with the Musee d’Orsay
and National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.
