The Phillips Collection

Ducan Phillips was a pioneer in art collecting. As he accumulated various works from big names in modern art during the 19th and 20th century, he envisioned starting a modern art gallery in New York (what is now MoMA in NYC). A portion of his collection is now located in the Phillips gallery in DC.

These are some of the most prominent pieces in modern art. Including Renoir’s “Luncheon of the Boating Party”, Van Gogh’s “Entrance to the Public Gardens in Arles”, and Degas’ Ballerinas. These modernist were drawn to France to break away from the traditional style of painting that was taught in the academies. Though they changed directions with their approach, they achieved a certain emotionality - capturing more than just a singular moment but an expression of that moment.

The only critique on Impressionism (if there even is one) is that the subject matter is rather limited in diversity. Given the fact that most of these artists were from France or a neighboring country and male, their subject matter revolved primarily around documenting the wealthy European society and gorgeous landscapes. It does not take away from the beauty these artists have produced, however, something the current art world will continue to have to address especially in public institutions.

Phillips Collection: https://www.phillipscollection.org/about