The Influence of the Impressionists on Climate

The Influence of the Impressionists on Climate

The work explores the profound impact of Impressionist art on the perception of nature and climate, particularly in London. It posits that the aesthetic experiences shaped by Impressionist artists have altered how people perceive environmental phenomena, such as fog and mist. The author argues that these elements of nature did not truly exist in the public consciousness until artists rendered them beautiful, thus creating a new reality through art. The text suggests that nature is not an independent entity but rather a construct of human perception, influenced by artistic interpretation. The author emphasizes the distinction between merely looking at something and truly seeing its beauty, asserting that the latter is essential for existence. The fogs of London, once overlooked, have become celebrated due to their artistic representation, leading to a cultural shift in appreciation. However, the author critiques the overemphasis on such effects, suggesting that they have become clichéd and detrimental to public health, as the unrefined masses suffer from the consequences of this artistic trend. The narrative shifts to the evolving nature of artistic influence, noting that while Impressionism has brought forth new visual experiences, nature itself struggles to keep pace with the innovations of art. The text also reflects on the changing perceptions of light and color in nature, contrasting the past with contemporary views shaped by Impressionist techniques. It highlights the fleeting nature of artistic trends and the tendency of nature to repeat effects, leading to a sense of fatigue among those with refined tastes. The author concludes that while art can elevate perception, it also risks becoming stale through repetition, urging a continual evolution in both art and nature.

By Oscar Wilde · First published 1891 · Genre: Essay, Art Criticism, Philosophical · 704 words

First lines

Where, if not from the Impressionists, do we get those wonderful brown fogs that come creeping down our streets, blurring the gas-lamps and changing the houses into monstrous shadows? To whom, if not to them and their master, do we owe the lovely silver mists that brood over our river, and turn to faint forms of fading grace curved bridge and swaying barge? The extraordinary change that has taken place in the climate of London during the last ten years is entirely due to a particular school of Art. You smile. Consider the matter from a scientific or a metaphysical point of view, and you will find that I am right. For what is Nature? Nature is no great mother who has borne us. She is our creation. It is in our brain that she quickens to life. Things are because we see them, and what we see, and how we see it, depends on the Arts that have influenced us. To look at a thing is very different from seeing a thing. One does not see anything until one sees its beauty. Then, and then only, does it come into existence. At present, people see fogs, not because there are fogs, but because poets and painters have taught them the mysterious loveliness of such effects. There may have been fogs for centuries in London. I dare say there were. But no one saw them, and so we do not know anything about them. They did not exist till Art had invented them. Now, it must be admitted, fogs are carried to excess.

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The Influence of the Impressionists on Climate is listed on Textopian as an essay by Oscar Wilde, dated 1891 CE.

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Impressionism · Climate Change · Art Movement · Literary Fiction · Philosophical Themes · Environmentalism · 19th Century Literature · Satire · Social Commentary · Cultural Analysis · Historical Context · Aesthetic Theory

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