Discussion 1: En plein-air painting
The French writer, Émile Zola, claimed that the Impressionists were selling sketches that are hardly dry. Identify an example of an Impressionist painting that represents Zola's description.
The availability of paint in metallic tubes in the 19th century made "en plein-air" possible for Impressionist artists. Identify a 20th or 21st century invention that has contributed to an innovation in art and explain why.
If you had the opportunity to have your own or your family's portrait painted by either Monet or Renoir, which artist would you choose? Explain the reasons for your choice.