Which artist was a founding member of the Impressionist movement and preferred realism in his work?

Edgar Degas is recognized as a founding member of the Impressionist movement, yet he distinguished himself by favoring a more realistic approach within his artistic practice. Unlike some of his contemporaries who embraced the loose brushwork and lighter palettes typical of Impressionism, Degas often focused on the details and structure of his subjects. His work frequently depicted ballet dancers, which were grounded in rigorous observation and lifelike portrayals rather than the more spontaneous interpretations embraced by some other Impressionists.

This preference for realism is illustrated in his meticulous compositions and innovative use of perspective, often capturing fleeting moments in a way that combines both traditional techniques and Impressionist elements. Degas’s blend of these styles enriched the movement, highlighting the diverse approaches that characterized the Impressionist group as a whole. His significance in this context is marked by his unique ability to bridge the gap between realism and Impressionism, making him a crucial figure in the evolution of modern art.