Modern impressionist artists were a revolutionary group of talented people that rose to prominence in the 19th century with their new outlook and production of radical art. The movement first became very popular with the art appreciators before art critics took note of their deep impact in the art world. In retrospect, it is clear the huge impact impressionists had on the direction of modern art and its development.

The most striking and recognizable characteristics of impressionist art is its use of natural colours, with a focus on light shades and vibrancy. The paintings are common to depict landscape scenery and natural settings using very often thick, short and visible brush strokes. Depiction of light is clearly a main interest of this group of painters.

The themes and images that are characteristic of impressionist art is its portrayal of outdoors scenes, landscapes, ordinary people and objects. The composition is mainly open using common thick brush strokes that are visible in the paintings.

It was common for impression artists to take a scientific interest in the nature of light and find various ways to portray that. The effect on light at different stages of the day was a key area of interest.

The works of these young radicals at the time caused a huge change in the progression of art and a change in how art was viewed. Many did not agree with the artistic nature or valued their art at the time although they still had avid supporters.

Many of the modern impressionist artists are now a cornerstone of art direction and influence nowadays. Names such as Degas, Monet and Renoir are easily recognizable for even those who have no particular interest in art for their expansive influence on contemporary culture. Although some of the best-known painters of that time were not appreciated as highly when they were producing their works by the art critics of the time.