Australian Impressionism

Australian Impressionism refers to an Australian art movement in the nineteenth century. The movement is noted for its exhibition of en plein air paintings in the Heidelberg on the outskirts of Melbourne city. 

The major artists of this movements were Arthur Streeton,  Charles Conders, Frederick McCubbin and Tom Roberts. These artists worked together in the open air at the “artists’ camps” in the 1880s-90s. Their paintings  were based on naturalist and impressionist ideas showcasing the Australian life. This group of Australian artists are also referred to as “Heidelberg School” . 

The works of these artists are notable, not only for their merits as compositions, but as part of Australia's cultural heritage.

The art works of these artists were exhibited in their groundbreaking “9 by 5 Impression Exhibition” held in Melbourne in 1889. 

Majority of the 183 works incorporated into display were painted on wooden cigar-box panels, measuring 9 by 5 inches (23 × 13 cm). The exhibition gained much recognition and popularity as most of the works sold in no time. 

Many of the works of the Australian impressionists remain the most iconic and popular images in Australian culture.