In the late 19th century, two significant movements emerged in the art world that challenged traditional norms and expressions. Impressionism, originating in France, emphasized the fleeting effects of light and color. Artists like Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir focused on everyday scenes, advocating for painting en plein air (outdoors) to capture ephemeral weather conditions.
On the other hand, Symbolism arose as a counter-response, prioritizing metaphysical ideas and deep emotional states over the physical world. Notable figures such as Paul Gauguin and Odilon Redon sought to convey feelings and philosophies through suggestive imagery and dreamlike themes, often leaning towards the fantastical.
While Impressionists engaged with the dynamic nature of reality, Symbolists delved into the conceptual and the symbolic. This divergence raised questions about the role of the artist: should they reflect reality as it is or interpret it through a subjective lens?
Considering this context, which of the following statements best captures the primary distinction between Impressionism and Symbolism as discussed?