Impressionism is an art movement that originated in France during the late 19th century. It is characterized by a focus on capturing light and its changing qualities, often through loose brushwork and vibrant colors. Artists aimed to depict everyday scenes and landscapes, emphasizing the effects of natural light and atmosphere. Key figures in this movement include Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. They often painted en plein air, or outdoors, to better capture the momentary effects of light. Impressionism marked a significant shift from traditional artistic techniques, influencing many subsequent art movements.