Impressionist paintings are a style of art that emerged in the late 19th century, primarily in France. Artists sought to capture the effects of light and color in their work, often painting outdoors to observe natural scenes. They used quick, loose brush strokes and vibrant colors to convey a sense of movement and spontaneity. This movement was characterized by a focus on everyday subjects, such as landscapes, city scenes, and people engaged in leisure activities. Notable Impressionist artists include Claude Monet, Edgar Degas, and Pierre-Auguste Renoir, who all contributed to the development of this influential art form.